New Details for The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Olaf as Drawing Teacher & Character Meets in 2026

Disney fans, get ready – pure magic is coming! In late summer 2026, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will transform into an animation lover’s paradise. Walt Disney World has just revealed more captivating details about the new “The Magic of Disney Animation” experience, directly inspired by the Emmy Award-winning short film “Once Upon a Studio.” The former home of Star Wars: Launch Bay becomes an interactive studio lot topped with Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat – and suddenly the characters come alive.

The absolute fan highlight: the brand-new Animation Academy “Olaf Draws!” Olaf from “Frozen” appears as a brand-new Audio-Animatronics figure at an animator’s desk and cheerfully guides guests of all ages through drawing lessons with original dialogue recorded by Josh Gad. At sleigh-themed tables or authentic animator workstations, young and young-at-heart artists learn step-by-step how to draw their favorite characters – with real tips from Disney legends like Dan Abraham (Mickey Mouse), Eric Goldberg (Genie) or Byron Howard (Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde from “Zootopia”). Each class features a different character: from Moana to Stitch to Ursula. Perfect for repeat visits!

In the already announced “Off the Page!” experience, fans dive straight into the real animation pipeline. They meet Mulan in front of giant storyboards in the Story department, Rapunzel in Layout, Chip ‘n’ Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation, Donald & Daisy in CG Animation, Goofy in Lighting and Stitch in Effects – all with fantastic photo ops and genuine insights into how ideas become films.

Next comes the enchanted Enchanted Art Gallery: classic artworks at first glance, but with a sprinkle of pixie dust, the characters leap to life in exclusive new animations. The grand finale is the “Once Upon A Studio Theater” with the award-winning short film and extra magical effects where characters even step out of the walls.

For the little ones, there’s the indoor playground “Drawn to Wonderland” – inspired by Mary Blair’s original “Alice in Wonderland” concept art with oversized flower garden, musical instruments, Mad Tea Party and Tulgey Wood. The entire courtyard becomes the “The Walt Disney Studios” themed area with shady trees for relaxing, snacks and hidden character surprises in the branches.

Important planning note: Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! closed on September 25, 2025 for the transformation. “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and Walt Disney Presents remain open. Dan Abraham, director of “Once Upon a Studio,” can’t wait: “It’s so cool because while you’re waiting in line to meet the characters, you already get a piece of studio history – and maybe this will inspire the next generation to carry on our legacy.”

In short: Anyone who ever dreamed of stepping behind the scenes of Walt Disney Animation Studios and becoming an animator themselves will see that dream come true in 2026. Pure magic, real creativity and tons of Disney heart – this will be the highlight of the year!