We’re ending the first half of the year (WHAT?!), which means that it’s time to start looking ahead to the changes coming in the latter half of the year.

From major changes at one of Disney World’s longest-running shows to new fireworks showtimes, we’ve got it all covered for you. Here’s what you need to know if you’re visiting the Magic Kingdom in July.

July 3rd, 4th, and 5th – Fireworks times change for Independence Day

Instead of having two nights of the annual fireworks show in Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Celebrate America! — A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky, Disney has announced that there will be THREE shows this year — on July 3rd, July 4th, and July 5th at 9 PM each night. Like the current Happily Ever After fireworks show, these fireworks can be seen in front of Cinderella Castle and down Main Street, U.S.A. Dessert parties at Tomorrowland Terrace will also be offered for an additional cost. Note: Happily Ever After will NOT play on these three days.

July 6th – Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress closes for a lengthy refurbishment

Everyone, take a deep breath, but Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress is undergoing a lengthy refurbishment for some major changes. Because of the technological advances in today’s world, the attraction can be seen as outdated. The new attraction will feature the 1960s, 1980s, the new millennium, and a possible future with an introductory scene featuring Walt Disney himself. Carousel of Progress will close its doors on July 6th, 2026, and reopen sometime in 2027.

Extended Evening Hours

One of the major perks of staying in a Deluxe Resort Hotel is the extended evening hours that come with it. On certain nights throughout the month, Magic Kingdom will close to all guests and only remain open for those guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts, Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, and other select hotels. These resorts include:

Disney Deluxe Resorts

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Disney’s Beach Club Resort
• Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
• Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort (The extended evening theme park hours benefit applies to Disney Vacation Club Cabins only.)
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Other Select Hotels

• Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
• Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
• Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
• Shades of Green® on Walt Disney World Resort

The dates for extended evening hours in Magic Kingdom in July include:

• Wednesday, July 1st: 10 PM to 12 AM
• Wednesday, July 8th: 10 PM to 12 AM
• Wednesday, July 15th: 10 PM to 12 AM
• Wednesday, July 22nd: 10 PM to 12 AM
• Wednesday, July 29th: 10 PM to 12 AM

Ongoing refurbishments and construction

Magic Kingdom is making room for some new areas and attractions, which means there’s a lot of construction and refurbishment going on all around the park. Here’s what you need to know:

Piston Peak is making its way to Frontierland

The Rivers of America closed last July to make room for Piston Peak, which will be a themed land inspired by the Pixar film, Cars. This land will include two newly themed attractions, including a rally race-themed attraction and a family-friendly attraction for those smaller racers! There is currently no tentative opening date, but as soon as we know, we’ll let you know!

Big Top Souvenirs remains closed for refurbishment

Located inside Storybook Circus in Fantasyland, Big Top Souvenirs remains closed for its refurbishment. This area closed in February and has plans to open later this year. This spot is where guests could meet Donald Duck, Goofy, Minnie Mouse, and Daisy Duck, and without this space, they do not have official meeting times. However, they sometimes meet near the Storybook Circus sign, but this is not guaranteed. Check the My Disney Experience app for the latest times!

And now you’re prepared to make your way throughout the Magic Kingdom without any surprises! Make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog, so you don’t miss any Disney updates and news!

6 MUST HAVES for your park day at the Magic Kingdom

What change are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!