The reworked Animation Courtyard area at Disney's Hollywood Studios is now open to guests under its new Walt Disney Studios Lot identity, according to in-park reports and photos from BlogMickey and WDW News Today.
Disney had previously set May 26 for the courtyard's official opening wave. The area is inspired by the Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank, with studio-style details around the existing theater for The Little Mermaid, A Musical Adventure and the soundstage for Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live.
That Disney Jr. show also begins May 26. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse host the live show, with Goofy, Daisy Duck, and Pluto joining the party as the music-driven story plays out.
The bigger indoor experience, The Magic of Disney Animation, is still planned for late summer 2026. Disney described the building as a version of the Roy E. Disney Animation Building, topped with Mickey's Sorcerer Hat.
Inside, guests will find character encounters staged around animation departments, a short film with a twist, drawing lessons, and the Drawn to Wonderland playground. The playground takes its cue from Mary Blair's original Alice in Wonderland concept art, with oversized flowers, musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood play area.
Disney also named Olaf Draws as part of the late-summer lineup. The drawing class uses an Audio-Animatronics Olaf figure, with the Frozen character appearing as the host while guests learn to sketch Disney characters.
The early area opening lands during a busy Walt Disney World week. Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, Soarin' Across America, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live, and several Cool Kids Summer offerings all start in the same stretch.
Disney includes a gallery of the new courtyard details, including studio-store signage, character touches, and outdoor design pieces that tie the area back to the Burbank studio lot.