What’s New at Disney & Universal This Summer (2025 Update)
Summer 2025 is turning up the magic in Orlando.
Whether you’re planning your first family trip or returning for new memories, this season brings exciting updates to both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. From brand-new parades and ride openings to themed lands and kid-friendly surprises, there’s something waiting for everyone — even if it’s just the joy of a Mickey bar in the shade.
Here’s your go-to guide for what’s new this summer across all four Disney parks, the grand debut of Epic Universe, and helpful tips for planning a trip your whole family will love.
✨ Walt Disney World – Summer 2025 Highlights
🌟 Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Parade
Debuting July 20, 2025, at 9 PM & 11 PM nightly, this brand-new Main Street nighttime parade brings shimmering floats, magical storytelling, and beloved characters to life
🚗 Test Track 3.0 – EPCOT
Opening July 22, 2025, this enhanced version of Test Track introduces updated show scenes, a retro-futuristic vibe, and new light features, all running via standby and Lightning Lane
🎨 Cool Kid Summer: Get Creative at Animation Courtyard
This summer, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is bringing extra energy and fun for families with little ones! At Animation Courtyard, kids can enjoy lively entertainment including upbeat performances, hands-on games, and playful character moments.
Little ones can explore interactive craft stations, tackle an imaginative obstacle course, and dance it out at an indoor party hosted by Mickey and his Disney Junior pals. It’s a great way to beat the heat and keep the fun going all afternoon!
Note: Offerings are subject to change and may vary by day.
🎉 Universal Orlando – Summer 2025 Highlights
🌌 Epic Universe – Now Open
Fully open since May 22, 2025, this new park features five immersive lands including Super Nintendo World, Hogwarts’ Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park—a bold new chapter for family adventures
🍺 CityWalk Expansion
A remodeled Universal Legacy Store now features a Butterbeer counter, allowing park-goers to enjoy Potter treats in CityWalk—no park ticket needed
🧸 DreamWorks Land
Perfect for little ones, this area offers character interaction with DreamWorks favorites, plus splash zones for fun and cooling off in the Florida heat
📆 Special Summer Events to Know
🏞️ Cool Kid Summer at Disney
From late May through September 2025, Disney’s “Cool Kid Summer” is bringing kid zones, meet-and-greets, and themed entertainment to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT
🏊 Disney After Hours & H2O Glow Nights
Enjoy select After Hours events at Hollywood Studios and EPCOT, plus glowing summer nights at Typhoon Lagoon—perfect for shorter lines and cooler evenings
🍷 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival (Preview)
Early birds rejoice—the 30th Annual EPCOT Food & Wine Festival begins August 28 and runs through mid-November, offering global cuisine, concerts, and cooking demos
🧭 Planning Tips for Summer Trips
Lock in your Lightning Lane choices early: Test Track, Frozen Ever After, and Toy Story ride are in Tier 1.
Beat the heat with swimming, breeze rides, or cool downs during After Hours events.
Keep an eye on EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival updates—it’s one of the best warm-weather draws.
🌤 Sunshine for Your Soul
“And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” — Colossians 3:17, CSB
As you soak in new experiences with your family, may gratitude and wonder fill your days—made richer by memories and grace.