4 Life-Changing Announcements for EPCOT in 2026

What is the best Disney World park, and why is it EPCOT? If you ask us, the reasons are innumerable, but even if EPCOT isn’t your favorite park, there are still PLENTY of reasons to visit in 2026.

Rides are changing, fan-favorite experiences are returning, and a whole lot more excitement is in store at EPCOT this year — but these four announcements are pretty darn life-changing.

Frozen Ever After Ride Changes

Frozen Ever After has been closed since January 26th, 2026, to make some major updates to the popular ride. But the ride is finally reopening on February 12th! The popular boat ride closed back in January to make way for new animatronics on the attraction to more closely match the Hong Kong Disneyland version.

EPCOT’s version of the ride opened in 2016, and at the time, these were the most advanced audio animatronics we had seen! They used facial projections to make the characters’ movements more fluid and lifelike.

Learn More About the Ride Changes Here

Soarin’ Ride Changes

Soarin’ Across America debuts on July 2nd, 2026, in EPCOT! This new version of the classic attraction will focus entirely on U.S. locations, blending natural wonders and city skylines with the ride’s signature score, scents, and gliding motions.

Disney confirmed that the updated film is part of the broader “Disney Celebrates America” initiative, a company-wide tribute to the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Ride Changes

While this ride change technically happened at the end of 2025, if you haven’t made your way to Disney World yet, it will be a total game-changer for your trip! Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure got a makeover in November 2025 to remove the 3D effects from the attraction.

The ride reopened with “enhanced digital visuals and clearer imagery projected in 2D.” Not only did they make the ride 2D, but Disney also switched things up so that Remy now has new props and lighting enhancements!

See the CHANGES to Remy’s Right Here

Cool Kids’ Summer Returns

Clear your calendars and your snack pouches: Walt Disney World Resort is bringing back Cool Kids’ Summer from May 26th through September 8th, 2026! This event debuted in 2025, and in 2026, it’s returning with MORE character appearances and limited-time experiences across the resort.

As part of Cool Kids’ Summer, GoofyCore is returning to CommuniCore Hall, where guests can dance and play along with Goofy, the Goof Troop, and DJ Dance Pants in fun activities.

Everything You Need To Know About Cool Kids’ Summer

We’re always on the lookout for even more updates from EPCOT and beyond. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to AllEars for the latest Disney news and more!