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Trees Installed as Animation Courtyard Becomes The Walt Disney Studios at Hollywood Studios

The phased refresh targets a summer 2026 reopening to bolster capacity during other Hollywood Studios construction.

Overview

  • Crews planted three large trees in the courtyard, with one near construction walls and two by the former Star Wars: Launch Bay, matching green space shown in concept art.
  • The Little Mermaid and Disney Jr. soundstage facades have been repainted beige to echo the Burbank studio look depicted for the reimagined area.
  • Animation Courtyard has been closed since September 25, 2025, with the new Walt Disney Studios area planned to open in summer 2026.
  • Plans call for animation workshops, an indoor play space, character meet-and-greets, a short film, roaming characters in the courtyard, and the Sorcerer Mickey hat returning as the entrance element.
  • The project advances alongside a broader park overhaul, including Monstropolis construction and the March 2, 2026 closure of Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster for a Muppets retheme.