It’s happening! IT’S HAPPENING!!!

Disney has filed new permits for the Animation Courtyard transformation, and do you think they’d be upset if I headed out with a hard hat and shovel to help?
In case you missed it, Disney is changing Animation Courtyard in Hollywood Studios to The Magic of Disney Animation.

This new space will invite guests to learn more about animation through different experiences, including drawing classes. There will also be an indoor playground themed to the original concept art of Alice and Wonderland by Mary Blair.

Outside the building will have plenty of character, a place to meet and greet, and trees and grass to hang out in. We’ve been begging for a space like this in Hollywood Studios, and we’re ready for it to come to fruition.

Two new permits have been filed to “provide labor, material, and/or electrical for construction.”

They filed a permit for the area near the popcorn kiosk, close to Disney Jr., and the archway. Fans have been upset about the archway going away after being part of the opening day at MGM Studios.

The Magic of Disney Animation will open in 2026, and Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance, along with the rest of Animation Courtyard, will close on September 25th. Disney Jr. Play and Dance will get a “fresh Disney Jr. show,” and The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure will remain open during the transformation.

Permits are giant steps since they mean that Disney is ready to get going! We saw permits pop up for almost all major projects before they closed, so they had permission to start construction as soon as the walls were put up.

Hollywood Studios has two other major projects going on as well. Muppets Courtyard is being turned into a Monsters Inc. themed area with a brand new hanging door roller coaster. We do not currently have an opening timeline.

The Muppets are moving right along and will be taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster! This retheme will open in 2026 and will feature the Electric Mayhem as Aerosmith leaves Hollywood Studios.

There are so many big projects happening, and we’re keeping track of them all right here at AllEars. Make sure you continue to follow for all the new updates!
ALL THE NEW RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS AT DISNEY WORLD IN 2025 AND BEYOND
Are you excited for The Magic of Disney Animation? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!


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