We have a heads up if you are heading to Disney World in January 2026! While we always recommend checking the My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date information on park hours, we have a warning about an adjustment to park hours in January 2026. The good news is that the change is only happening for two days, but we don’t want you to be caught by surprise.
EPCOT
EPCOT will be opening late two days in January, and we want to make sure you know about it! Generally, EPCOT opens at 9 AM, but during the Disney World Marathon Weekend in January, EPCOT will open a bit later on two days.
Don’t worry — it isn’t a huge change, but we also don’t want you showing up expecting the park to open at 9 AM. On January 10th and 11th, EPCOT will open at 10 AM, so make sure you plan accordingly. Also, during Marathon Weekend, there will be road closures, and you will likely notice heavier traffic around Disney World in the morning, so add in some extra time if you are trying to get somewhere.
EPCOT
The 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is taking place from January 7th through January 11th, 2026. During the weekend, there will be a marathon, a half-marathon, a 10K, and a 5K. The theme for the marathon is “What’s Your Story?” and we got a peek at the medals back in October. Each race has a different medal, and runners who take on Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge or the Dopey Challenge also receive additional medals. Marathon Weekends are lots of fun, but also tend to be busier times in Disney World. So whether you are running or not, be sure to prepare for more crowds, more traffic, and road closures.
©runDisney
And don’t forget that EPCOT will open at 10 AM on January 10th and 11th due to the Marathon Weekend. You can plan to head to a different park in the morning, or take the opportunity for a relaxing morning. Whatever makes the most sense for your group. Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney World news!
4 Rides Disney World Pros SKIP in EPCOT
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