Big changes are on the horizon at Walt Disney World Resort, setting the scene for a truly landmark summer in Central Florida.
For the first time since 2019, all six Walt Disney World parks—four theme parks and two water parks—will be open at the same time. This rare full lineup will officially kick off on May 21, welcoming guests to a season filled with thrills and new experiences.
But before the big splash, a short break is in order. Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park will temporarily close for seasonal refurbishment starting May 1. This pause paves the way for something special: a dual water park summer, as Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon continues operations and Blizzard Beach prepares to return.
Guests have just a few more days to enjoy the final moments of Blizzard Beach’s limited-time 30th anniversary celebration, which launched on April 1. “Just imagine a high-energy DJ spinning some toe-tapping tunes on the deck near the Polar Pub,” Disney Parks Blog shared. The seasonal celebration also includes surprise visits from Mickey and Minnie in festive winter attire, whimsical snowman bowling, and custom character-themed tubes making their way down Cross Country Creek.
Beginning June 1, operating hours at both water parks will be extended to 10 a.m. through 6 p.m., offering even more time for adventure. Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels can continue to enjoy complimentary admission to a Disney water park on their check-in day—making it easier than ever to soak in the fun from the moment they arrive.
Meanwhile, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is diving into summer with the return of a fan-favorite after-dark experience. Disney Water Parks’ official Instagram confirmed that Disney H2O Glow After Hours will light up select nights from May 23 through September 13. This separately ticketed event features shorter wait times, included treats like ice cream novelties, popcorn, and select beverages, plus character meet-and-greets and a lively DJ-hosted dance party under the stars.
The synchronized reopening of both water parks represents a shift from the staggered schedule that had been in place since the pandemic, when only one water park would operate at a time. With both parks running concurrently, Disney aims to better manage attendance and offer more options to cool down during the warmer months.
Of course, Florida weather remains unpredictable. Blizzard Beach experienced several closures due to colder conditions earlier this year, and with hurricane season approaching, guests may want to keep a flexible itinerary. Exploring one of the resort’s four theme parks is always a smart backup plan if skies turn gray.
As exciting as this season looks, May 1 will bring a moment of pause. The temporary closure of Blizzard Beach marks a turning point—not an ending, but a transition toward something even more exciting. The countdown to May 21 has officially begun, when Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon will both be ready to welcome guests for double the fun.
And just one day later, Universal Orlando Resort will debut its massive new addition, Epic Universe, on May 22. As Central Florida’s theme park landscape continues to evolve, many Disney fans are eager to see how the competition may influence what’s next for the Most Magical Place on Earth—including hopes for a long-speculated fifth gate.
How do you feel about Disney losing Blizzard Beach next week? Let us know in the comments down below!
