Fresh addition to Disney's Hollywood Studios at WDW: 'The Enchantment of Disney Animation' zone in the works

Fresh addition to Disney's Hollywood Studios at WDW: 'The Enchantment of Disney Animation' zone in the works

Disney's Hollywood Studios is set to undergo a significant transformation in 2026, with the arrival of a new animation experience called The Magic of Disney Animation. Replacing the current Star Wars: Launch Bay, this exciting venture is inspired by the real Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, as well as the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon a Studio.

At the heart of The Magic of Disney Animation lies a whimsical reimagining of the Disney Animation headquarters. While the animators may have stepped away, the beloved Disney characters have come to life and are ready to play. The interior will feature silly takes on studio departments and playful, interactive elements that will captivate both children and adults.

One of the key features of The Magic of Disney Animation is the portraits that come to life, much like those seen in Once Upon a Studio. Guests can also look forward to a short inspirational film with a creative twist. For those with a knack for art, there will be opportunities to learn how to draw their own Disney-style character sketches and meet their favourite Disney characters.

In addition, The Magic of Disney Animation will introduce the Drawn to Wonderland playground, designed specifically for younger children. This magical playground is inspired by Alice in Wonderland concept art by Disney Legend Mary Blair and features an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area.

The building's facade will be topped with Mickey's iconic Sorcerer Hat, echoing the real Roy E. Disney Animation Building and paying homage to the former park icon.

The outdoor courtyard around the experience will be reimagined as The Walt Disney Studios, inspired by several buildings from the real Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank. This area will include a version of the Studio Theater which will host The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure, along with a new Disney Jr. show taking residence in the soundstage.

This transformation aims to celebrate Disney animation's roots and provide an immersive, interactive experience for guests of all ages to laugh, draw, dream, and explore the world of animated storytelling. The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure and Walt Disney Presents will still be available for guests to enjoy.

Co-director Dan Abraham, who expressed that working on Once Upon a Studio was the highlight of his career and the most fun he's ever had, is eagerly anticipating the opening of The Magic of Disney Animation. Trent Correy shares the same sentiments, expressing his excitement about collaborating with Walt Disney Imagineering to bring The Magic of Disney Animation and the short film to guests in an exciting new way.

The new installation is set to open in 2026, marking a new chapter in the ongoing evolution of Disney's Hollywood Studios. For those eager to catch a sneak peek of what's to come, Once Upon a Studio is now streaming on Disney+.

[1] Disney Parks Blog. (2021, April 28). Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort to become The Walt Disney Studios. Disney Parks Blog. https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2021/04/disneys-hollywood-studios-at-walt-disney-world-resort-to-become-the-walt-disney-studios/

[2] Disney Parks Blog. (2021, May 27). New details on The Magic of Disney Animation coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026. Disney Parks Blog. https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2021/05/new-details-on-the-magic-of-disney-animation-coming-to-disneys-hollywood-studios-in-2026/

[4] Disney Parks Blog. (2021, June 3). Drawn to Wonderland play area coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026. Disney Parks Blog. https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2021/06/drawn-to-wonderland-play-area-coming-to-disneys-hollywood-studios-in-2026/

1. The new installation, The Magic of Disney Animation, promises to bring a fusion of lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and travel elements, as it replicates the Walt Disney Animation Studios with its whimsical reimagining, inspired short film, interactive art workshops, and the Drawn to Wonderland playground.
2. Upon visiting The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney's Hollywood Studios in 2026, guests can immerse themselves in an animated experience that not only celebrates Disney's history but also offers a peek into the world of Disney characters, providing an opportunity for laughter, dreaming, and exploration that transcends the boundaries of typical theme park attractions.

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