New at Disney World in 2025 & Where to Stay (Hint: in a Disney-Themed Rental!)

An all-new nighttime parade called Disney Starlight will light up Magic Kingdom in summer 2025 – the first in nearly a decade! Walt Disney World is constantly evolving, and 2025 is bringing a wave of new attractions, rides, and seasonal events across all four parks. From magical parades to thrilling reimagined rides, there's something new for everyone to look forward to on your next trip. And if you're planning a family vacation, here's the inside scoop on what's coming in 2025 and how to make your trip extra enchanting by staying in a Disney-themed vacation rental.

What's New at Disney World in 2025?

Disney has big plans for 2025, debuting new experiences that will delight first-timers and longtime fans alike. Here's a sneak peek at the new attractions and events coming to Disney World in 2025:

1. Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away (Magic Kingdom) – Get ready for a shimmering new nighttime parade in summer 2025, led by Pinocchio's Blue Fairy and featuring floats themed to Encanto, Moana, Peter Pan, and more​. This light-up spectacular will be brought to life by the magic of the Blue Fairy and marks the first nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom in nearly ten years​
2. Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern (Magic Kingdom) – A swashbuckling new lounge is set to open in late 2025, extending the story of the classic Pirates ride. This family-friendly tavern will be a "welcoming haven for pirate-kind", where scallywags of all ages can gather to tell tall tales​. Keep an eye (and ear) out for the old Barker Bird from the ride, who will make a comeback in this rambunctious watering hole.
3. Reimagined Test Track (EPCOT) – Buckle up! The beloved Test Track ride is getting a high-tech overhaul. In late summer 2025, a brand-new version of Test Track will launch, blending cutting-edge technology with a touch of automotive nostalgia. Sponsored by Chevrolet, the updated attraction will celebrate innovation and the history of transportation in a thrilling new way.
4. Spaceship Earth Lounge (EPCOT) – Ever wanted to relax inside Spaceship Earth? While it's not actually in the geodesic sphere, a Spaceship Earth-themed lounge is slated to open in spring 2025. This retro-futuristic lounge (location TBD) will feature decor inspired by EPCOT's iconic ride – think neon Epcot vibes – and a creative drink menu (we're hoping for a "Thank the Phoenicians" cocktail!).
5. Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After (Hollywood Studios) – Disney is embracing its wicked side with a brand-new villains stage show at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Debuting summer 2025 (in the theater that hosted Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy), this musical spectacle will bring infamous villains like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent to the stage. The Magic Mirror's realm comes to life as these baddies "break through the glass" to perform – a must-see for any villains fan!
6. "The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure" (Hollywood Studios) – Ariel is ready to make waves again! A new live Little Mermaid musical is swimming into Hollywood Studios in summer 2025. This updated show will retell Ariel's story with live actors, puppetry, digital effects, and beloved songs like "Part of Your World" plus new musical numbers from the film. It's the perfect show for Little Mermaid fans – kids and adults alike.
7. Zootopia Show: Better Zoogether (Animal Kingdom) – Over at Animal Kingdom, the Tree of Life is getting a new inhabitants from Zootopia. Disney is replacing the It's Tough to be a Bug! attraction with a brand-new Zootopia show featuring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde on an adventure through the city's different biomes. (Bye-bye, Hopper – hello, Zootopia!) While the opening date hasn't been announced yet, this is an exciting development for late 2025 or beyond.
8. 30th Anniversary Flower & Garden Festival (EPCOT, Spring 2025) – Epcot's popular International Flower & Garden Festival celebrates its 30th year from March 5 to June 2, 2025. Expect stunning character topiaries, garden exhibits, outdoor kitchens with fresh flavors, and the Garden Rocks concert series to make this springtime event extra special.
9. Seasonal Magic – Fall & Holidays 2025 – Planning a trip later in the year? Fear not, the seasonal favorites are back. Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will return in Fall 2025 on select nights, offering trick-or-treating, costumed characters, and the Boo-to-You parade in Magic Kingdom. With Disney in a bit of a "villains era" in 2025, Halloween might be extra spooktacular! Then, come November and December, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party will deck Magic Kingdom's halls with snow on Main Street, holiday fireworks, and special shows. Plus, all of Disney World will be aglow with festive decor and cheer during the holiday season.

With so many new things to see in 2025, you'll want to plan your trip carefully (and maybe early in the year, before summer crowds hit!). But one big part of your Disney vacation that you might not have considered yet is where you stay. To truly maximize the magic, let's talk about the benefits of staying in a Disney-themed rental home for your trip.

Stay in the Magic: Why Choose a Disney-Themed Vacation Rental

After an exciting day experiencing new rides and shows, the fun doesn't have to end when you leave the park gates. Disney-themed vacation rentals let you continue the enchantment 24/7​. Imagine putting the kids to bed in a Mickey Mouse bedroom or a princess suite – it keeps the Disney spirit alive even after the fireworks! Here are some big reasons families are choosing themed vacation homes near Disney World in 2025:

1. The Disney magic never stops: In a themed rental, your family is surrounded by Disney decor and details. Every room whispers adventure – from Star Wars wall murals to Mickey-shaped kitchenware – so the storytelling continues at home. It's a great way to extend the magic beyond the parks, and kids absolutely love it​
2. More space & privacy for the whole family: Forget cramming into a single hotel room. Vacation homes offer multiple bedrooms, living rooms, and even private backyards. Grandparents, parents, and kids can all have their own space under one roof. Plus, you get conveniences like full kitchens and laundry. It's a home away from home, but with Disney flair!
3. Cost-effective for groups: Traveling with a big family or multiple families? Booking a large vacation home can be much more affordable than multiple hotel rooms, especially during peak season. You'll save money by having the option to cook some meals in your kitchen and avoiding pricey resort fees​. More value means more budget for souvenirs and Mickey bars!
4. Unique amenities (hello, private pool!): Many UNE Homes rentals come with awesome perks you won't get at a hotel – think game rooms, home theaters, themed kids' playrooms, and private screened pools. Want to spend a rest day lounging by your private pool or playing air hockey in an Avengers-themed game room? You got it. These extras turn your lodging into an attraction itself.
5. Close to the parks with easy breaks: Staying off-site doesn't mean staying far. In fact, many of UNE Homes' properties are just a 10-15 minute drive from Disney World. You can zip "home" for an afternoon break, let the kids nap, grab a quick snack, or take a dip in the pool – then head back refreshed!