A holiday favorite is returning to Walt Disney World, and Disney is making some noticeable changes before the festivities begin.
Disney Jollywood Nights will once again take over Disney's Hollywood Studios on select evenings this holiday season, offering guests a celebration filled with entertainment, characters, and Hollywood-inspired holiday fun.
However, anyone expecting the exact same event as previous years might be surprised.
Disney has revealed a new lounge experience, unexpected additions to its character lineup, and a revised version of one of its popular holiday shows.
Here's what visitors can expect when Jollywood Nights returns in November.
Disney Is Bringing More Entertainment to Animation Courtyard
Guests looking for somewhere to unwind during Jollywood Nights will have a new option this year.
Checkin' It Twice Lounge is opening in Animation Courtyard as part of the 2026 celebration.
The location will offer specialty drinks, music from a live DJ, and additional entertainment throughout the night.
It's a fitting addition to an event that already emphasizes Hollywood glamour and festive nightlife.
Rather than rushing from one attraction to another, guests can spend part of their evening enjoying the atmosphere.
That may be particularly appealing to adults attending Jollywood Nights as a date night or holiday outing with friends.
Disney has not revealed the lounge's complete menu, so guests will have to wait a little longer to find out what drinks will be available.
The company has also promised additional details about the entertainment.
For now, the lounge represents another new experience included in the event's overall lineup, although individual food and beverage purchases may cost extra.
Disney Confirms Two First-Time Character Appearances
One of the most interesting announcements involves two characters that Disney fans don't encounter every day.
George Sanderson and Needleman from Monsters, Inc. (2001) are officially joining Jollywood Nights for the first time.
The two characters are recognizable from the Pixar film, although neither receives the same attention as Mike and Sulley.
That makes their appearances especially interesting for guests who enjoy meeting less common Disney characters.
Disney's separately ticketed events frequently attract visitors hoping to collect unique character photos, and George and Needleman could become popular additions.
However, Disney hasn't revealed their meeting location.
Guests hoping to see both characters should watch for further announcements as the event approaches.
Donald, Daisy, and Genie Are Taking Over Glisten!
The changes continue with Glisten!, a skating show that returns to Disney's Hollywood Studios this holiday season.
The production takes place near the Chinese Theater, where guests can enjoy festive skating entertainment.
For 2026, Disney is adding something the show hasn't featured before: Disney characters.
Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, and Genie will join the production, giving audiences a new reason to stop and watch.
While Disney hasn't shared the exact details of their appearances, the announcement suggests that this year's show will offer a different experience from previous versions.
The character additions also give the entertainment a stronger Disney connection, which could appeal to families attending the event.
Jollywood Nights Tickets Are Already on Sale
Disney Jollywood Nights begins November 7, 2026, with additional event dates scheduled throughout November and December.
The celebration will also continue into January, with its final two nights scheduled for January 3 and January 5, 2027.
Guests can attend on the following dates:
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November: 7, 14, 16, 21, 23, and 28.
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December: 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, and 23.
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January: 3 and 5.
The event officially begins at 7:30 p.m. and concludes at 12:30 a.m., although ticket holders can enter the park two hours early.
Prices range from $169 to $199 per guest, plus tax, depending on the date.
Discounts of $10 are available for children ages 3 through 9, eligible Annual Passholders, and Disney Vacation Club Members.
With ticket prices approaching $200, guests will understandably want to make the most of their evening.
Fortunately, Disney's newest announcements give visitors additional experiences to consider when planning their night.
The arrival of two unusual Pixar characters, a brand-new lounge, and updates to Glisten! all contribute to a refreshed celebration.
Whether those changes justify the ticket price will ultimately depend on each guest's interests.
But for Disney fans who enjoy exclusive character interactions and festive nighttime entertainment, Jollywood Nights 2026 is offering several new reasons to return.
