"14 Reasons to Visit Walt Disney World This Summer: Cool Kid Fun, New Shows, and Great Deals Await!"

Walt Disney World has officially launched its *Cool Kid Summer* celebration — a vibrant, action-packed season designed to bring joy, excitement, and value to families visiting The Most Magical Place on Earth. From brand-new theatrical shows inspired by *The Little Mermaid* and Disney Villains, to the dazzling debut of the *Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away* nighttime parade, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Plus, with exclusive summer deals including deeply discounted tickets, resort savings up to 30%, and even free dining plans, this could be the perfect time to plan your magical getaway.

We were invited behind the scenes to experience the highlights of Cool Kid Summer firsthand, and we’re here to share why this summer trip to Disney World could be both unforgettable and budget-friendly for your family.

1. Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After

One of the major new additions to Hollywood Studios is *Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After*, now playing at the Sunset Showcase Theater and replacing *Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy*. This immersive theatrical experience shines the spotlight on some of Disney’s most iconic antagonists — Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent — as they take the stage to tell their side of the story.

In a clever interactive twist, audience members help decide which villain truly deserves the title of “Most Misunderstood” through enthusiastic cheering and support. The outcome varies nightly, making repeat visits highly rewarding. Though only three villains appear onstage, countless others make cameo appearances in the elaborate set design, appearing in portraits and woven into the dramatic curtain that sets the tone for the show.

“This show just has a sense of inevitability,” shared Matheus Fiuza, the production’s art director. “It was always meant to happen. We’ve always deserved a beautiful show about villains, and now they’re finally getting their moment in glory — it’s one of the most thrilling things I’ve ever been part of.”

This performance marks the beginning of a larger Villains presence at Disney World, as it was recently announced that Magic Kingdom will soon feature an all-new Villains-themed land.

2. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure

Another standout addition to Hollywood Studios is *The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure*, a fresh and imaginative reimagining of the beloved classic. Replacing the long-running *Voyage of the Little Mermaid* (which ran from 1992 to 2020), this new 18-minute musical blends live performers, puppets, and animated elements to retell Ariel’s journey through her own eyes.

According to Katrina Mena Rick, senior creative producer at Disney Live Entertainment, “This version is told through Ariel’s perspective — a 16-year-old girl full of wonder and curiosity. That’s why the show feels so whimsical, bright, and colorful.”

Jodi Benson, the legendary voice of Ariel and a Disney Legend, expressed her delight at seeing the show come to life. “It was a lovely surprise to see ‘Kiss the Girl’ included again,” she said. “But beyond the music, what matters most is that audiences leave feeling joyful, loved, and hopeful. This show definitely does that. It brings back all those beautiful memories of the original for me.”

3. Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away

Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Nighttime Parade at Walt Disney World

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Set to debut at Magic Kingdom on July 20, 2025, *Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away* is the newest nighttime parade celebrating both classic and modern Disney storytelling. Drawing inspiration from fan-favorites like the *Main Street Electrical Parade* and *Paint the Night Parade*, this spectacular promises to be a visual feast filled with beloved characters and dazzling floats.

The parade follows the magical influence of the Blue Fairy as dreams and wishes come true before your eyes. Expect appearances from Peter Pan, Wendy, Asha, members of La Familia Madrigal (Mirabel, Isabela, and Bruno), Elsa, Aurora and Prince Phillip, Tiana and Prince Naveen, Belle and the Beast, Cinderella and Prince Charming, Miguel and Pepita, Moana, Goofy, Pluto, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, Snow White and Dopey, Rapunzel and Flynn Rider, Aladdin and Jasmine, and of course, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

4. Cool Kid Summer Across Disney World’s Four Parks and Resorts

Cool Kid Summer at Disney World's Four Parks and Resorts

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Cool Kid Summer isn’t limited to just one park — it spreads across all four Walt Disney World theme parks and select resorts, offering plenty of indoor activities to beat the Florida heat while keeping kids entertained and engaged.

Magic Kingdom

• Galactic Blast at Tomorrowland: Transform Rocket Tower Plaza Stage into a space-themed DJ dance party featuring Stitch and cosmic beats.
• Merchant of Venus: Craft stations inspired by *Elio* offer fun indoor activities.
• Big Top Bash at Storybook Circus: Join DJ Ringmaster and Pluto for a lively dance party with games and crafts inside Big Top Souvenirs.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Get Animated at Animation Courtyard: An energetic indoor dance party featuring Mickey Mouse, Disney Junior characters, magicians, jump rope performers, games, and more.

EPCOT

• GoofyCore: Located in CommuniCore Hall, this high-energy dance and game zone lets kids play Loopy Limbo, Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks, Four Corners, and Goofy Says.
• Phineas and Ferb Celebration: On June 1 near EPCOT’s entrance, celebrate the release of the new season premiering June 5 on Disney Channel.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Nature-Based Adventures: Explore guided outdoor experiences with Disney characters and earn a limited-time Wilderness Explorers badge.
• Dino Institute Intern Sing-Along: Discovery Island hosts a celebration of real and mythical creatures through song.

Disney Resort Collection Hotels

• Enjoy character meet-and-greets, family games, music, and themed entertainment at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Art of Animation Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort, and Wilderness Lodge.

5. Save 50% on Select Kids (Ages 3 to 9) Tickets

Families with children ages 3 to 9 can enjoy huge savings with Disney’s special offer: 50% off select Kids Tickets valid