Disney World has seen SO many changes this year, including new rides, restaurants, and experiences. And believe it or not, even more changes are in store for October 2026.
Several restaurants and food options are opening in Disney World in October, while two will temporarily close. Plus, one park is opening later, another park is closing later, and an annual marathon will start in the Most Magical Place on Earth, too.
Hurly-Burly Opens
Hurly-Burly at Disney’s BoardWalk opens October 1st, 2026, offering live entertainment, vintage drinks, and lite bites.
During the day, the lounge will welcome guests for family-friendly fun, including host-led activities like trivia and other games. At night, the lounge will become a 21-and-older nightlife venue.
FULL MENU Announced For Disney’s NEW Hurly-Burly Lounge
New Food & Wine Festival Booths
The 2026 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival is officially underway, but not every booth has opened yet!
The last four booths, Coastal Eats, Earth Eats, The Alps, and India, will open on October 2nd and be available through the end of the festival.
6 Booths With Delayed Openings At The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival
Scat Cat’s Club
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — French Quarter is known for many things, but the delicious beignets at Scat Cat’s Club are one of the biggest ones. If you’re a big fan of this fluffy, delightful snack, where you can snag them will be CHANGING for the coming few months.
Scat Cat’s Club Café and Lounge close on October 6th. The refurbishment is expected to take until December for the Café, while the Lounge is expected to open in January 2027. During the closure, beignets and coffee will also be available at Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory, and a temporary bar will be available near the café from 5 PM to 11 PM each night.
Beignet Fans, DON’T PANIC, But Your Beloved Disney World Snack is Moving
Diamond Horseshoe
The Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom will reopen on October 4th with a brand-new cowboy-themed menu.
Reservations open on September 29th, but walk-ins are available.
NEW MENU REVEALED for Magic Kingdom Restaurant
Olivia’s Cafe
Olivia’s Cafe at Disney’s Old Key West Resort will end brunch service on October 6th. This meal has been a longtime favorite of ours, a true hidden gem in Disney World. Now, the restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day.
Starting on Tuesday, October 6th, breakfast will be served from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM, lunch from 11:30 AM to 2 PM, and dinner from 5 PM to 9 PM.
Disney World Is Removing Brunch From One of Our Favorite Restaurants
Animal Kingdom Extended Evening Hours
If you’re staying at a deluxe Disney World resort in October, you’ll get access to Extended Evening Hours at Animal Kingdom. You’ll get an extra two hours in the park from 6 PM to 8 PM!
On Tuesday, October 20th and Monday, October 26th, you can take advantage of lower ride wait times and even catch Pandora: The World of Avatar all lit up at night!
A FULL List of Disney World Park Hours for October 2026
Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
The runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend will be held from Friday, October 23rd to Sunday, October 25th, featuring a 5K, 10K, and half-marathon race, plus a 19.3-mile challenge.
Instead of its usual 9 AM opening (8:30 AM Early Entry), EPCOT will open at 10 AM (9:30 AM Early Entry) on Friday, October 23rd and Sunday, October 25th to account for the early morning races.
EVERYTHING You Need To Know About The Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
We’ll be sure to keep you updated on Disney World news as it’s announced, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more!
This Ride at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Is Getting a MAJOR Upgrade
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Which October Disney World event surprised you the most? Will any of these events impact your trip? Comment below!










