A Walt Disney World trip usually comes down to preparation. Guests spend weeks planning their trips, choosing attractions, and building the perfect park day. But sometimes, updates come in late—and they can shift those plans in ways people don’t expect.
That’s exactly what’s happening at EPCOT right now. Disney has confirmed that two well-known experiences will be temporarily unavailable in May. It’s not permanent, but the timing could catch some visitors off guard.
If you’re heading to EPCOT soon, this is one of those changes you’ll want to factor into your day before you even arrive.
Disney World’s Parks Are All Changing at Once
This update fits into a much larger trend happening across Walt Disney World. Every park is in some stage of change, whether it’s expansion, refurbishment, or complete reimagining.
Magic Kingdom continues to build momentum with projects like Piston Peak and Villains Land. Hollywood Studios is adding both a Muppets-themed coaster and a Monsters, Inc. land, signaling big things ahead.
Animal Kingdom is undergoing one of the biggest transformations of all, replacing DinoLand U.S.A. with a Tropical Americas area inspired by Indiana Jones and Encanto.
EPCOT may feel more stable compared to recent years, but it’s still adjusting—and May 2026 visitors will feel that firsthand.
France Pavilion Shows Temporarily Unavailable
The first closure centers around the France Pavilion’s theater. The Palais du Cinéma has been closed since February 22, 2026, and it won’t reopen until May 10.
That means both Impressions de France and the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along remain unavailable through early May. These shows may not draw the biggest crowds, but they play an important role in balancing out a busy day.
They give guests a place to relax, cool off, and take a break from the heat. Without them, the pavilion feels a bit different.
Soarin’ Closure Brings Bigger Impact
After the France Pavilion reopens, attention shifts to one of EPCOT’s most popular attractions. Soarin’ will close from May 14 through May 25.
The attraction is preparing for a new version, Soarin’ Across America, which ties into the United States’ 250th anniversary. While the update is exciting, the temporary closure creates a noticeable gap in the lineup.
Soarin’ is often a must-do ride for many guests, especially early in the day. Without it, crowds will likely move toward other nearby attractions, increasing wait times across the park.
What Remains Open Across EPCOT
Despite these changes, EPCOT still offers plenty to experience. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind continues to draw big crowds, and Spaceship Earth remains a steady presence at the front of the park.
Test Track stays open for thrill-seekers, while Frozen Ever After continues to attract families. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Mission: SPACE, and Journey Into Imagination with Figment also remain available.
The park isn’t losing its core lineup—it’s just missing a couple of key pieces at different points in the month.
How This Shapes a May Visit
When you break it down, most of May is affected in some way. Early visitors miss the France Pavilion shows, while later guests lose Soarin’.
That staggered timing means there’s no perfect window where everything is fully available. Guests will need to plan around what’s open during their specific travel dates.
Final Takeaway
EPCOT isn’t shutting down anything permanently, but these temporary closures still matter. They change how guests move through the park and what experiences are available at key moments.
For anyone visiting in May 2026, the best approach is simple—plan ahead, stay flexible, and adjust your priorities. Knowing what to expect before you arrive can make the entire day feel smoother.
