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Hollywood Studios Show Permanently Closing, Disney Confirms Final Date

Disney fans often expect change, but one upcoming closure at Hollywood Studios has left many parents frustrated. This time, it’s not a ride or a flashy attraction—it’s the kid-friendly dance party that became a lifesaver for families during long park days.

A large crowd of people gathers in front of the entrance to Disney World Park Hollywood Studios.
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic

The End of a Kid Favorite

The “Get Animated” dance party, hosted inside Animation Courtyard, quickly became a must-do for parents with young children. Unlike the old Disney Junior Dance Party stage show, this newer format allowed Mickey, Pluto, Timon, Vampirina, and Doc McStuffins to walk the room, dance with kids, and pose for as many photos as families wanted. No showtimes, no rushing, no shuffling out into the heat when it was over.

A family in front of the Tower of Terror at Disney's Hollywood Studios, a Disney World park.
Credit: Disney

For parents, it wasn’t just about entertainment—it was about breathing room. Hollywood Studios doesn’t have many places designed for kids to play indoors, and this event filled that void perfectly.

Disney’s Official Word

On September 25, 2025, Disney Junior Play and Dance! will officially close to make way for a reimagined Magic of Disney Animation experience. The new project, set to debut in 2026, promises to feature interactive areas, whimsical play zones, and character greetings in a Burbank-inspired setting. While exciting on paper, the change means families lose one of the few kid-centric retreats the park offered.

A colorful, nighttime aerial view of a theme park courtyard with trees, paths, lights, and two large buildings. One building features a film reel and a Sorcerer’s Hat facade; the other displays a large movie poster. People walk throughout.
Credit: Disney

Disney shared in a statement:
“Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will permanently close on September 25, 2025, to make way for The Walt Disney Studios. Enjoy the ‘Get Animated’ dance party at this location through September 24, 2025.”

Families Want More

The closure has sparked a strong response from parents across forums and fan pages. Many are pleading with Disney to either preserve the dance party or create a similar offering. For them, this wasn’t just a show—it was a practical solution to keep little ones happy in the middle of hot, crowded days. Without it, families say they’ll be left scrambling for alternatives or retreating to resorts earlier than planned.

Looking Ahead

The new Magic of Disney Animation attraction will no doubt bring big creative energy to Hollywood Studios. But it also raises a big question: will it carry the same relaxed, come-and-go atmosphere that made the dance party so valuable to families?

As the final date draws near, one thing is clear—parents aren’t ready to say goodbye.

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

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