Animation Magic Takes Over From Star Wars Launch Bay in 2026

Muppets Courtyard is being reimagined into Monstropolis, and over on the other side of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Animation Courtyard will be reimagined into a space that’s focused on … animation! A brand new experience, The Magic of Disney Animation, will take over from Star Wars Launch Bay in 2026. And the Courtyard itself will be reimagined as a nod to the Walt Disney Studios, with new green spaces to enjoy and a new Disney Jr. show on the soundstage.

At Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, artists bring beloved characters and films to life. At the all-new experience The Magic of Disney Animation, guests can experience this wonderful process in a new and interactive way, with characters ready to leap off the screen and into the fun.

The Sorcerer’s Hat is returning to Hollywood Studios, atop the entrance to a building inspired by the Roy E. Disney Animation Building at the California headquarters.  Step inside to find an animators’ workshop where the animators have stepped away … and the characters have come out to play. Explore studio “departments”: a short film, a character drawing experience, character greetings, and other playful interactive adventures like portraits that come to life as they did in the short film Once Upon a Studio.

There’s even a playground! The Drawn to Wonderland playground will be inspired by the Alice in Wonderlandconcept art from Mary Blair, with an oversized flower garden of musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area. We think this is fab, because as parents, we know that in a kid’s mind playgrounds are second only to pools as highly memorable parts of a Disney vacation.

Outside, Animation Courtyard will receive updates to bring these animation-focused attractions together as a reimagined Walt Disney Studios Lot, with inspiration from other buildings found in Burbank. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will remain in its current location, a nod to the Studio Theater. On the soundstage, a new Disney Jr. show will be introduced. And the grounds and courtyard area will be refreshed with trees, seating, and space to relax, take a break, and maybe even spot a few characters hanging out.

To prepare for the reimagining of Animation Courtyard, Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Walt Disney Presents will remain open and accessible to guests.

Are you excited about The Magic of Disney Animation? What part sounds best to you? Let us know in the comments!