The Magic of Disney Animation has quietly begun testing operations at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios ahead of its official opening. This multi-attraction experience is located in the reimagined Animation Courtyard, which previously housed the Star Wars Launch Bay. The new Roy E. Disney Animation Building offers several new experiences including an animated theater, a drawing academy hosted by Olaf, and character meet-and-greets. Soft openings allow theme parks to test operations and train staff in a controlled environment before welcoming the general public. This particular soft opening is expected to help manage crowd levels for the official debut on September 14, 2026. The experience includes various areas designed for different age groups, from indoor playgrounds for children to interactive drawing sessions for all ages. While some aspects like live animator guidance are missing, most components of the reimagined attraction have received positive feedback from preview visitors.
Key Points:
- The Magic of Disney Animation soft opened on Friday, September 11, 2026, ahead of its official opening on Monday, September 14, 2026
- The attraction is located in the Roy E. Disney Animation Building which replaced the former Star Wars Launch Bay space
- The experience includes four main components: Once Upon a Studio Theater, Olaf Draws Animation Academy, Drawn to Wonderland Play Area, and Off the Page Character Meet & Greets
- Soft openings are also known as trial operations or technical rehearsals that provide a controlled test period before official opening
- The Olaf Draws Animation Academy features an Audio-Animatronics figure of Olaf who guides guests through character drawing techniques