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# Disney World Update: Magic Kingdom Closes at 6 as EPCOT Adds New Festival Features
- URL: https://www.theamericanquorum.com/orlando-disney-update-2026-09-18/
- Published: 2026-09-18T10:32:32.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-18T10:32:32.000Z
- Description: Magic Kingdom closes at 6 tonight for its Halloween party, EPCOT begins new cheese programming, and fresh entertainment updates arrive at Hollywood Studios and Casey’s Corner, with key dates for visitors.
- Author: News Desk
- Tags: Disney World, Florida, Theme Parks

**Magic Kingdom closes to regular day guests at 6 p.m. today**, making Friday’s separately ticketed Halloween party the day’s most important planning constraint. EPCOT also starts a new cheese-focused festival feature, while two newly announced entertainment changes give visitors dates to watch at Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom.

## Magic Kingdom closes at 6 p.m. for tonight’s party

Disney’s [official park calendar](https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/magic-kingdom/?ref=theamericanquorum.com) lists Magic Kingdom operating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, September 18, with Early Entry from 7:30–8 a.m. The park then shifts to a special-ticket event from 7 p.m. to midnight.

That evening event is [Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party](https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party/?ref=theamericanquorum.com). Party-ticket holders may enter beginning at 4 p.m., but regular daytime admission does not include the party. Day guests should plan transportation, dining and any final attractions around the 6 p.m. close; evening guests should allow time for the afternoon admission overlap and wristband process.

## EPCOT starts its cheese-focused festival programming today

The [EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival](https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/epcot/epcot-international-food-and-wine-festival/?ref=theamericanquorum.com) adds “Cheers to Cheese!” at CommuniCore Hall today, September 18\. Disney lists the interactive exhibit through November 8, alongside Emile’s Fromage Montage, the festival’s cheese-dish tasting quest.

The broader Food & Wine Festival continues through November 21 and is included with valid EPCOT admission, although Disney notes that a park reservation may be required depending on ticket type. Guests planning primarily around food should check the current marketplace and concert listings on the official festival page before arriving, because individual offerings and entertainment schedules vary.

## Alien Swirling Saucers gets a new soundtrack September 25

Disney has set Friday, September 25, for the debut of [“Lilypad’s Jams” at Alien Swirling Saucers](https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/lilypad-new-music-toy-story-land-disney-world/?ref=theamericanquorum.com) in Toy Story Land. The updated experience will add a new DJ character and soundtrack featuring remixed *Toy Story* music plus original songs recorded across pop, country, electronic and alternative-rock styles.

The change is designed to reach beyond riders: Disney says off-ride audio and activities will also play in the surrounding area. Visitors traveling before September 25 should not expect the new program yet; those arriving next Friday or later can treat it as a refreshed entertainment stop rather than a new ride or reservation-based experience.

## A new pianist is now playing at Casey’s Corner

Disney Parks Blog also introduced [Carol as the newest Casey’s Corner pianist](https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/meet-the-new-caseys-corner-pianist-bringing-joy-to-magic-kingdom/?ref=theamericanquorum.com). The 36-year Disney cast member previously performed at locations including EPCOT, Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and is now playing ragtime and Disney selections on Main Street, U.S.A.

Disney has not posted a guaranteed daily performance schedule in the announcement, so guests should treat the set as atmosphere to catch when available rather than build a rigid touring plan around it.

## What to know before you go

Check TAQ’s [**Florida park wait-times dashboard**](https://parks.theamericanquorum.com/?state=FL&ref=theamericanquorum.com) before leaving for the resort. Select Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom individually for a shorter near-real-time view of posted waits. More reporting across the region is available through the [Florida Theme Parks hub](https://www.theamericanquorum.com/florida-theme-parks/).

*The American Quorum is independent and is not affiliated with Disney. Operating hours and entertainment are subject to change.*