Full List of Disney World Ride Closures in December 2025

Refurbishments are a fact of life in Walt Disney World. Rides, shows, and attractions are often closed for refreshes, repairs, and technological upgrades, some for longer times than others. In fact, it’s rare to have a day when EVERY attraction at the resort is operational, even during the busiest season of the year: THE HOLIDAYS.

Hollywood Studios Christmas Tree!

If you’re heading to the “Most Magical Place on Earth” this December, you’ll find decorations, treats, and special Holiday events… but NOT certain rides.

Magic Kingdom

First off, there’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The iconic E-Ticket has been closed since January 2025 for a massive refurbishment project. According to Disney, the attraction is scheduled to reopen in 2026 with “new magic” including a fully refurbished track and a new sequence inspired by the Rainbow Caverns of Disneyland’s Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland.

@Disney

On the other side of the park, Tomorrowland’s Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin closed on August 4th for a refurbishment that’s also expected to last until 2026. The refurbished attraction will feature new ride vehicles, new blasters, and a new scene featuring the parks original robot character named Buddy who will ensure “departing Space Rangers are fully prepared for their mission (by) enthusiastically providing encouragement, final system checks on their Star Cruisers, and a chance to hone their blaster aim.”

A look at the ride vehicles

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom’s Kali River Rapids closed for refurbishment on October 6th. According to Disney, the ride is scheduled to reopen in December 2025; however, there’s no opening day specified as of now, and the ride is still listed as closed through the 31st as of now

Kali River Rapids

Usually, the Rapids ride closes for a couple of months between January and March for a seasonal refurbishment; however, this year Disney is doing maintenance earlier on the calendar, likely to ensure that the ride is operational when Dinosaur closes for good in February.

A closed Kali River Rapids

As always, bear in mind that while these are the scheduled closures currently on the Walt Disney World calendar, there’s always the chance that any given ride or attraction can go down unscheduled, so be sure to keep an eye on the Disney World app while planning your Christmas vacation. Stay tuned to AllEars for further updates on Disney World’s calendar.