The “end of May” is officially upon us, as we’re now in the biggest five days of 2026 for Walt Disney World. Let’s dive into the expected and unexpected today, and a reminder of what’s still to come!
Magic Lives — Disney Keeps Its Soarin’ Promise
First up, Soarin’ Across America!
When Disney announced Soarin’ Across America, they said it would be open “by Memorial Day,” which is Monday, May 25. They later gave the official opening date of…May 26. I found this annoying at the time because 1) it contradicted what Disney said and 2) even if they changed plans, people would be planning around misinformation.
Now, on May 22, Soarin’ Across America has “soft” opened at EPCOT. I put “soft” in quotes because this seems more like an early opening than a soft one. The ride name in the app still says “Opening May 26”, and no operating hours are posted until May 26. However, the app is showing a wait time, which is uncommon with soft openings.
We’ll see how the next few days go, but we’re assuming the ride will remain open. So, how do I feel about “by Memorial Day” now?
Disney presents itself as the preeminent guest experience brand in the world. And CEO Josh D’Amaro purports to understand that the complexity of Disney World planning is a real problem for guests. So I still think this goofy show of saying “by Memorial Day” and then “oops no May 26” and then “gotcha! by Memorial Day!” is a misstep.
But if the ride remains open for the 23rd, 24th, and 25th, then it’s probably forgivable. Guests are theoretically now given several days of lead time to reorganize their trips. There’s an easy way to make this totally forgiven in my book—confirm what guests will be able to expect the next few days!
Millennium Falcon Sputters, But Changes Are Here
Today, May 22, was the scheduled start of the new storyline on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Hollywood Studios. Well, the ride didn’t start operating until 10AM, but the changes are officially and actually here now.
As of 1:19PM, it’s tied for second longest wait in the park:
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance — 60 minutes
Slinky Dog Dash — 55 minutes
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run — 55 minutes
Toy Story Mania! — 40 minutes
There has been and continues to be same-day Lightning Lane availability, too.
I think we can officially say this change is a non-issue for touring the park. This is only slightly surprising, but I am disappointed to have suggested some people rope drop it today, not that I could be blamed for it not opening on time.
May 26 Is Still To Come
Don’t forget—there’s more fun ahead! May 26 will see the debuts of…
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets at Hollywood Studios
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Hollywood Studios
Bluey’s Wild World at Animal Kingdom
The big item here is Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. That ride is trending about as popular as Slinky Dog Dash when you look at Lightning Lane demand, which Smugglers Run never did. This means you can still justify prioritizing Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster on and after May 26.
All Your Other Disney World Planning Questions Answered
Don't be overwhelmed by Disney World planning! Take a second to check out our most important content and you'll not only be an expert, but you'll save big $$$ along the way. Just starting out? Check out our Walt Disney World planning guide!
When it comes time to book we’ll help you find discount Disney World tickets. Decide whether you need a dining plan in our Complete Guide to Disney World Dining Plans! And don't forget to book those Disney World Advance Dining Reservations!
Be sure to master your Disney World Lightning Lane Guide and Strategy a few weeks in advance. Good strategy will keep you out of long lines so you can maximize the magical time in the parks! We've got park-specific guides as well: Magic Kingdom Lightning Lane Strategy, EPCOT Lightning Lane Strategy, Animal Kingdom Lightning Lane Strategy, and Hollywood Studios Lightning Lane Strategy.
Know what to ride with our guides: Magic Kingdom rides, Hollywood Studios rides, EPCOT rides, and Animal Kingdom rides! Plus learn about the water parks with our Guide to Blizzard Beach and our Guide to Typhoon Lagoon! And for some fun prep, check out our Ranking of Every Ride at Walt Disney World.
Finally, before you head out, be sure to check out our to-the-point packing list, 10 essentials you forget to pack for every Disney trip.