These are all of the changes to know about at Walt Disney World in October 2026. They are good to know about if you are visiting so you can plan your vacation accordingly.
Walt Disney World’s Anniversary
Disney World’s 55th anniversary is on October 1st. This is the day that Magic Kingdom opened in 1971. EPCOT also opened on this date in 1982. There will be special 55th anniversary merch available for purchase in the parks.
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
There is a runDisney event to know about in October. Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend is October 22nd through 25th. You can expect an increase in crowds during this time.
Halloween Season is Ending
October is the last month to experience the Halloween season at Disney World. The last day of the Halloween offerings is October 31st.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is Ending
This is the last month with dates for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. The dates for it are October 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 15, 16, 18, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29 and 31st. Magic Kingdom will close at 6pm on those nights for guests without a Halloween party ticket.
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is currently going on. The last day of this festival is November 21st. They have special festival foods, merch, Eat to the Beat concert series, and more.
Fall Break
Some schools in the United States have fall break where they have a few days off from school in October. This can cause an increase in crowds.
Higher Crowds
You can expect to see higher crowds at Disney World in October than in September. This is due to fall break, the Halloween season, and the weather being a little cooler.
Halloween Day
Halloween day is Saturday October 31st. There will likely be an increase in crowds this day. Remember that adults cannot wear Halloween costumes into the parks unless they are attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
Ride Closures
There are a few ride closures in October to plan around. Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress will be closed. The Walt Disney World Railroad is closed September 28th through October 29th. The Main Street and Fantasyland stations will open October 30th, but the Frontierland station will remain closed due to construction in Frontierland.
Other Closures
Other closures to know about are Typhoon Lagoon, Slush Gusher at Blizzard Beach, and La Signature in EPCOT, which are all closed with no reopening dates. Coral Reef Restaurant in EPCOT is closed and reopening November 13th.