There’s big magic coming back to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Disney just dropped a massive announcement: The Magic of Disney Animation is officially returning – and it’s not just a throwback, it’s a fully reimagined, interactive experience that will open in 2026 in the space currently occupied by Star Wars: Launch Bay. Yes, the Sorcerer Hat is coming back. Yes, there’s going to be an indoor Alice in Wonderland-themed playground. And yes – you’ll be able to learn to draw with Disney artists again!

Here’s everything you need to know about the return of this beloved attraction, what’s replacing what, and what fans of Star Wars Launch Bay, Disney Jr. Play & Dance!, and the Animation Courtyard can expect as the area gets a full refresh.

A Modern Twist on a Fan-Favorite Attraction

If you were lucky enough to visit Hollywood Studios before 2015, you might remember The Magic of Disney Animation – an experience where guests could watch real animators at work, meet characters like Sorcerer Mickey and Mushu, and even draw their own Disney sketches.

Now, that same nostalgic experience is coming back with a brand-new storyline, inspired by the Emmy Award-winning short “Once Upon a Studio.” According to Disney, guests will step into a version of the Disney Animation Studios where the animators have “stepped away,” and the characters have taken over.

From portraits that come to life (think: magical cameos!), to a short film with a creative twist, to drawing your own character in an animator-led experience, this new attraction blends interactivity, storytelling, and hands-on creativity in a way only Disney can do.

 The Sorcerer Hat Returns – With a Purpose

One of the most iconic visuals in Disney Parks history is making a comeback: Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat will once again top the building, this time as a replica of the one seen at the Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank.

While the original Sorcerer Hat served as the park’s icon for years, the new version is fully integrated into the attraction’s theme – representing the creative magic of animation itself. It’s not just for looks. According to Imagineers, the hat will be part of the storytelling and “cast a spell of pixie dust” over the entire area.

Interactive Play Spaces and Wonderland Whimsy

This new experience will feature multiple interactive zones designed for families and kids. One of the most exciting additions is “Drawn to Wonderland”, an indoor playground inspired by Alice in Wonderland and original Mary Blair concept art.

Picture this: oversized flowers that double as musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party-themed jungle gym, and a colorful Tulgey Wood crawl space. It’s perfect for little ones needing a break – and a great homage to Disney’s animation legacy.

Character Meet and Greets (Yes, Lots of Them!)

If you’re wondering about characters, Disney promises plenty of opportunities to meet your favorites. While no official list has been announced, the promotional art features characters like Mickey, Moana, Stitch, Olaf, Elsa, and more – suggesting this could be one of the most character-packed locations in the park.

Our prediction? Meet and greets here may rotate regularly, or even feature characters popping up in unexpected ways (maybe even hidden in the “studio” itself).

Animation Courtyard Becomes The Walt Disney Studios Lot

With this major change, the entire Animation Courtyard is getting reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios” – inspired by the real Burbank studio campus. The makeover includes new architecture, themed landscaping, and playful touches that make it feel like you’ve stepped onto the backlot of Disney Animation history.

What’s Staying:

• The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure in the Studio Theater

• Walt Disney Presents (and its rotating exhibits + film)

What’s Closing:

• Star Wars: Launch Bay – last day September 24, 2025

• Disney Jr. Play & Dance! – also closing September 24 to make way for a new Disney Jr. show (rumored to be Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!)

And yes, the Hollywood Studios archway at Animation Courtyard is being demolished as part of the refresh.

Why We’re Excited – and What This Means for Families

This update feels like a full-circle moment for Hollywood Studios – bringing the focus back to what made the park special from the start: celebrating the art of storytelling and animation. With this new version of The Magic of Disney Animation, guests will get to play, learn, and create in ways that spark imagination for all ages.

We especially love how Disney is balancing nostalgia with innovation – bringing back an attraction we loved while updating it to feel fresh and immersive for a new generation.

When Does It Open?

The new Magic of Disney Animation experience is set to debut in 2026. Construction will begin this fall, with Star Wars: Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play & Dance! closing on September 25, 2025.

If you’re planning a visit in late 2025 or early 2026, keep an eye out for more details – and maybe even soft openings!

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