If you’ve ever wished your Disney World day could start earlier or last just a little longer, 2026 might be your dream year to visit. That’s because Disney has confirmed that both Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours will continue for eligible resort guests all the way through the end of next year.
These two benefits have grown into essential pieces of the Disney planning puzzle. They give guests the ability to skip long lines, avoid peak heat, and experience more of the parks with less stress. And in 2026, they’ll once again be available to guests who stay on-site at select Disney hotels.
Early Entry gives resort guests access to the parks 30 minutes before the regular opening time. And we’re not just talking one park—it’s available at all four parks every single day. So no matter which day you’re planning to tackle Slinky Dog Dash or Na’vi River Journey, you’ll get a head start on the rest of the crowd.
The benefit is simple, but powerful. While most people are still going through security or waiting for the gates to open, you could already be halfway through your first attraction. For families with young kids who wake up early anyway, it’s a perfect match.
Extended Evening Hours, on the other hand, are like a VIP after-party. These are only available to guests staying at Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resorts, and they’re offered on select nights in one or two parks each week. When they kick in, most day guests have already left, which means the park becomes noticeably quieter—and much easier to navigate.
Imagine walking onto TRON Lightcycle/Run with no wait, or riding Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind twice in a row with time to spare. The parks take on an entirely different energy after hours, and many guests say it’s the most relaxing time to explore.
Disney’s announcement that both of these offerings are sticking around for another year adds some predictability for 2026 planners. It also provides an incentive for guests to consider the value of staying on-site. With crowd levels continuing to rise and Lighting Lane still adding complexity to ride planning, perks like these give guests more ways to navigate the chaos.
What makes this update even sweeter is that it joins a growing list of perks Disney is rolling out next year. In addition to extended hours, families will be able to take advantage of free dining for kids and free water park entry in the summer months—both great ways to save money while adding flexibility to your itinerary.
With 2026 bookings opening April 22 for most of the year, it’s safe to say Disney is putting together one of its most guest-focused packages in recent memory. And with more time in the parks, your vacation just got a whole lot more magical.
