Walt Disney World is bringing back Extended Evening Hours at Animal Kingdom for the remainder of 2026, offering a more consistent schedule than recent years. The perk will alternate between Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom until November 4, when Animal Kingdom takes over hosting duties through the holiday season. This change comes after Magic Kingdom stops hosting Extended Evening Hours following September 9 due to party season events. Guests staying at Value or Moderate Resorts remain ineligible for this benefit, though DVC points can provide access. The event runs twice weekly for two hours, typically on Mondays and Wednesdays. Animal Kingdom will host these extra hours during evenings after November 1 when Daylight Saving Time ends, making the experience more enjoyable with full darkness. Only four attractions will be available during Extended Evening Hours at Animal Kingdom, including Pandora – World of Avatar and Expedition Everest. Visitors are advised to arrive early for daytime activities before the evening event begins. The limited ride roster means guests should prioritize popular attractions like Flight of Passage toward the end of the night when wait times decrease.
Facts
- Extended Evening Hours will be hosted at Animal Kingdom starting November 4, 2026
- The perk alternates between Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom until November 4
- Magic Kingdom stops hosting Extended Evening Hours after September 9, 2026
- Guests at Value or Moderate Resorts are not eligible for Extended Evening Hours
- DVC points can be used to gain access to Extended Evening Hours
- The event runs twice per week for two hours on Mondays and Wednesdays
- Only four attractions will be available during Extended Evening Hours at Animal Kingdom
- Daylight Saving Time ends November 1, 2026, making evening hours more enjoyable