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Walt Disney World Posts Initial Thanksgiving Week Operating Hours

An early posting that locks in three Magic Kingdom early closures for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party signals tighter access and likely high Lightning Lane prices.

Overview

  • Walt Disney World published the preliminary November 22–28 park hours on September 18, and the company regularly adjusts holiday hours closer to the dates.
  • Magic Kingdom is listed 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on four days but will close at 6 p.m. on Nov. 24, 25 and 27 for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, requiring a party ticket for evening access.
  • EPCOT is scheduled 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily with Extended Evening Entry on Nov. 23 and 8:30 a.m. early entry for eligible guests; Hollywood Studios mostly runs 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with Nov. 23 and 28 early closures for Jollywood Nights; Animal Kingdom is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with an Extended Evening entry on Nov. 24.
  • Reports note that Disney’s dynamic Lightning Lane prices have hit $449 on other peak 2026 dates and that similar peak-level pricing is expected for Thanksgiving week, though official holiday prices have not been released.
  • Analysts and reporters tie the schedule to Disney’s strong Experiences results and ongoing park refurbishments, which together can limit available capacity, keep hours constrained, and push more guests toward paid line-skipping options so travelers should monitor updates and budget accordingly.