AFTER HOURS 2026: Tickets and Dates for Low-Crowd Ride Access
Disney After Hours, the separately ticketed event featuring minimal crowds, complimentary snacks, and extended ride time, is confirmed for three parks from January through September 2026.
Updated: 2025-12-05
The Big Picture
After Hours events grant access to a park for six hours total—three hours before closing and three hours after—providing the shortest wait times for headliner attractions like TRON and Rise of the Resistance.
The Essentials
- Duration: 3 hours after park close (Magic Kingdom runs 10 PM–1 AM; EPCOT/Hollywood Studios usually 9:30 PM–12:30 AM).
- Early Entry: Tickets allow guests to enter the park as early as 7:00 PM without a separate park reservation.
- Free Perks: Complimentary ice cream novelties (like Mickey Bars), popcorn, and bottled beverages are included in the ticket price.
- Booking Tip: Resort hotel guests (including Swan & Dolphin and Shades of Green) received early booking access starting October 9, 2025. All other guests could purchase tickets from October 14, 2025. Annual Passholders and DVC Members receive a $30 discount.
| Park | Dates | Key Attraction Featured | Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | Select nights, Jan 12 – Jul 27 | TRON Lightcycle / Run, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train | Includes a showing of the Disney Enchantment fireworks spectacular. |
| Hollywood Studios | Select nights, Jan 14 – Sep 12 | Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Slinky Dog Dash | Surprise character encounters and open bars like Oga’s Cantina. |
| EPCOT | Select nights, Jan 22 – Sep 24 | Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind | New: Test Track is now included; relaxed character meet-and-greets. |
The Bottom Line
If beating the crowds on the newest, most popular attractions is your vacation priority, After Hours is the most efficient way to do it. The cost is justified by the guaranteed low wait times.
Go Deeper
https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/disney-after-hours-dates-tickets-tips/