It’s one of the most frustrating feelings at Disney World: planning your day down to the minute, only to realize Disney had a different plan entirely—and didn’t really tell you. That’s exactly what’s happening to guests looking forward to visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios on August 16, 2025.
Without any kind of big announcement, Disney quietly updated the operating hours for Hollywood Studios, cutting the day short by three full hours. Instead of the usual 9 p.m. close, the park will now shut its gates at 6 p.m. sharp. And understandably, some guests are not taking the news lightly.
A Surprise That Changes Everything
Let’s be real—Hollywood Studios is packed with must-do attractions. Whether you’re flying the Millennium Falcon, riding Slinky Dog Dash, or watching Fantasmic! light up the night sky, most guests expect to stretch every moment out of their visit. Losing three hours, especially during that sweet spot after sunset, is a huge blow.
The reason for the early closure? Disney hasn’t said a word. But based on past patterns, this usually points to a private event—like a Cast Member celebration or a large-scale corporate buyout. Whatever the cause, it’s left a lot of guests scrambling.
The Real Issue? Lack of Communication
You’d think a schedule shift like this would come with an official post, email, or even a push notification on the app. Nope. The only indication is a quiet update in the My Disney Experience calendar, which many guests won’t even notice until they’re planning their day-of itinerary—or worse, already at the park.
That’s what stings the most for some families. Disney trips take months to plan, and guests build their expectations around specific experiences. The idea that you could lose a third of your day without clear warning? It feels like a bait-and-switch.
Some Silver Linings, But…
Sure, not everything about an early closure is bad. Fewer people may choose to visit that day, meaning shorter lines for rides and better access to those tough-to-snag Lightning Lanes. But that only helps if you’re willing to give up your evening plans and adjust on the fly.
And for fans of nighttime Disney magic—like wandering through Galaxy’s Edge under the stars or watching the sky explode during Fantasmic!—there’s really no substitute. This is one of those changes that reshapes the whole experience.
Final Take: Check Your Dates
If you’re planning a trip to Hollywood Studios anytime soon, especially in August, now’s the time to double-check those hours. Disney is known for tweaking schedules with minimal notice, and this one is a prime example of why it’s so important to stay updated.
August 16 may still be a great day to visit—but only if you go in knowing exactly what you’re getting. Don’t let this change sneak up on you.
