For a long time, Disney World regulars have felt like something was missing. Yes, the rides are open, the fireworks are back, and the character hugs have returned. But the overall vibe? It hasn’t quite felt the same since 2020 flipped the world upside down.
Well, it looks like that’s changing. And not by accident.
This summer, Disney isn’t just making small adjustments. They’re making moves. Big ones. With Universal’s Epic Universe officially open as of May 22, 2025—and drawing serious attention—Disney has taken it as a clear signal: now is the time to return to form.
And guests are already feeling the difference.
Shows, Parades, and Discounts—Oh My
Let’s talk about what’s new (and what’s coming back). At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, two fresh stage productions just made their debut—The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After. Both are getting glowing reviews from guests, and both show that Disney is recommitting to live entertainment in a big way.
And over at Magic Kingdom? After nearly a decade without one, the park is finally bringing back a nighttime parade. Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away is set to begin lighting up Main Street, U.S.A. starting July 20, 2025. That’s a milestone that longtime fans have been begging for.
Beyond that, there are steep resort discounts, packed event calendars, and special after-hours events stretching through September. It’s like Disney is stacking every nostalgic offering they can to say: “We hear you. We’re back.”
A Response to the Competition—and the Fans
It’s no coincidence that all this is happening the same summer Epic Universe launched across town. Universal has raised the bar, and Disney is responding not just with new rides, but with an atmosphere that reminds people why they fell in love with the parks in the first place.
That doesn’t mean Disney is trying to replicate the past. But it does mean they’re finally leaning into what made the experience so special in the first place—emotionally rich shows, crowd-pleasing events, and those magical moments that made even the busiest park day feel unforgettable.
Should You Plan a Trip This Summer?
If you’ve been unsure about returning, this might be the time to rethink things. The energy is shifting, the offerings are stronger, and Disney seems committed to bringing back the heart and soul of the parks.
It may not be a full rewind to 2019—but it’s definitely the closest Disney World has felt to “the good old days” in a long time.
