By Happily Ever After Hours

Welcome back to our weekly roundup of what’s happening around Walt Disney World. From new entertainment and seasonal events to travel tips and ticket deals, here’s everything you need to know this week.

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New Entertainment Debuts May 27

Two new shows are set to premiere at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 27:

• The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will bring Ariel’s world to life through a fully reimagined stage show featuring new effects and refreshed visuals.
• Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After will highlight classic villains in a theatrical performance designed to be both mischievous and memorable.

These additions expand the park’s indoor entertainment options—perfect timing as summer heat sets in.

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Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Updates

Disney has revealed a refreshed character design for Jack Skellington, aligning more closely with his animated look from The Nightmare Before Christmas. This update will debut as part of the 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, which runs August 15 through October 31 at Magic Kingdom.

Party tickets are on sale now and are expected to sell out for high-demand nights in September and October.

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Complimentary Water Park Access for Resort Guests

Starting May 21, guests staying at any Walt Disney World Resort hotel will receive free same-day admission to Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach on their check-in day. This is the first time both water parks have operated simultaneously since 2019, making it an ideal bonus for arrival day fun.

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EPCOT Food & Wine Festival: Dates Announced

The 2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is scheduled to run from August 28 through November 22. The event will feature more than 35 Global Marketplaces, culinary demonstrations, limited-time entertainment, and festival-exclusive merchandise.

Menu previews and artist lineups are expected in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

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Summer Ticket and Hotel Discounts

Disney has rolled out several promotions for summer travelers:

• 50% off children’s tickets for ages 3–9, available for 3-day or longer tickets with start dates between May 27 and September 20.
• A 3-Day, 3-Park Ticket Deal starting at $89 per day (plus tax) for EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Valid through September 22.
• Up to 30% off select Walt Disney World resort hotels for stays between August 1 and October 11.

These offers are limited and subject to availability. Booking sooner ensures the best rates.

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Memorial Day Weekend Crowd Forecast

The upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend (May 24–26) is expected to bring elevated crowd levels across all four parks. Guests planning visits during this time are advised to:

• Arrive early and take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry (for resort guests)
• Book Lightning Lanes in advance or as early as possible
• Consider less-crowded activities like resort dining or midday pool breaks

This weekend often kicks off the unofficial start of summer at Walt Disney World. On the flip side, there is a chance that the crowds this weekend will be lighter than expected with the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe, set to open up officially on 5/22.

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Final Thoughts

With new shows debuting, seasonal festivals on the horizon, and generous summer savings in effect, now is an excellent time to plan your next visit. Whether you’re traveling soon or preparing for fall, our Disney travel planners Chelsea and Jen are here to help you build the kind of trip that actually feels like a vacation.

Let us know how we can help—and check back next week for the latest from the parks.