JUST ANNOUNCED: The Sorcerer Mickey Hat Is RETURNING to Hollywood Studios

A Hollywood Studios ICON is coming back, y’all!

Disney just announced that Animation Courtyard is getting a big overhaul, with new attractions coming and a rethemed space. But as part of that update, we’ll get to be reunited with the Sorcerer Mickey hat…in a new way!

If you recall, the Sorcerer’s Hat was the icon of Hollywood Studios from 2001-2015 (during part of that time it was MGM Studios). It was situated in front of the Chinese Theater and was built as part of the 100 Years of Magic Celebration. Some people loved the hat, and some hated it.

Well, now the Sorcerer’s Hat is returning, but in a different (and smaller) way. The Animation Courtyard overhaul will introduce a new attraction called The Magic of Disney Animation, which is set to replace Star Wars: Launch Bay. And as that building gets a retheme, it’s going to be topped with a NEW Sorcerer Mickey hat!

This is meant to replicate the Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, which is also topped with the hat. Inside the building, you’ll see portraits come to life, get to watch a short film, and learn how to do character sketches. Sounds like Disney’s Hollywood Studios is going back to its studio-inspired roots!

Also as part of this overhaul, there will be a new Alice in Wonderland-inspired playground for little ones, a new version of the Disney Jr. show in the soundstage, and a refresh to the outdoor courtyard area. We can’t wait to check it out when everything opens in 2026!

Construction will begin this fall, when Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! close beginning September 25, 2025. We’ll make sure to keep you in the loop with all the details as they’re announced.