Disney World in September (2026): A Comprehensive Guide

Here’s everything you need to know about Disney World in September 2026. Below, you’ll find important dates, special events, weather conditions, crowd predictions, and helpful tips for visiting in September. Whether you’re still deciding on your dates or have them set, this comprehensive guide covers every aspect of planning a Disney World vacation in September 2026.

The September Advantage: Disney World 2026

September at Disney World provides a relaxed atmosphere and many unique experiences. As summer vacations end and schools reopen, crowds decrease significantly, especially after Labor Day. This less hectic atmosphere allows visitors to enjoy the parks at a more leisurely pace.

Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival takes place during this time, offering visitors a chance to sample various global cuisines, attend culinary workshops, and enjoy live concerts.

Moreover, September offers the entire month of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This event transforms Magic Kingdom into a family-friendly spooky spectacle with themed parades, fireworks, and trick-or-treating, offering an immersive Halloween experience.

The Headless Horseman rides tonight

While still warm and potentially rainy, September’s weather in Florida is typically more manageable than in July and August. For those comfortable with heat and humidity, it provides a pleasant backdrop for exploring the parks.

Finally, September is a particularly attractive month for budget-conscious travelers. With the summer crowds gone post-Labor Day, prices tend to be lower than during the peak summer months.

September’s Potential Downsides:

Planning a Disney World visit in September involves several factors. With schools back in session, scheduling a family trip in September may pose challenges.

The beginning of September often sees a surge in crowds and prices during the Labor Day weekend. Visitors planning around this time should prepare for this increase.

While slightly milder than July and August, Florida’s September weather mirrors June’s warmth and humidity. Regular afternoon rain showers may dampen plans and temporarily shut down certain outdoor attractions.

Additionally, September falls within Florida’s peak hurricane season. Even though severe hurricanes affecting Disney World are relatively rare, they are a crucial factor to consider when planning. Nonetheless, with careful scheduling and flexibility, a magical Disney World experience in September is not just possible but highly likely.

Disney World Key Dates and Events, September 2026

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

The following highlights are worth considering if you plan to visit Disney World in September 2026:

• Back to School (Late August – Early September): As schools across the U.S. resume in late August or right after Labor Day, crowd levels at Disney World tend to decrease significantly, particularly after Labor Day.
• Labor Day Weekend (September 4 – 7, 2026): The first Monday of September is observed as Labor Day in the United States, marking the traditional end of summer. The weekend surrounding Labor Day sees a slight increase in visitor numbers and prices. While it’s busier than the rest of September, it doesn’t attract the massive crowds that other holidays typically do. And Labor Day crowds seem to have been relatively low over previous years as opposed to years long past.
• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (Throughout September): This popular festival, in full-swing during September, provides visitors with a unique culinary experience featuring a variety of international cuisines.
• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Select Nights Throughout September): Typically beginning in mid-August and extending through Halloween, September visitors get an entire month of family-friendly Halloween fun.

Each of these events plays a role in determining crowds, resort availability, and the overall experience, making them crucial factors to consider when planning your September trip.

Will Disney World be Crowded in September?

The following factors will influence crowd levels in September 2026 at Disney World.

• School Term: With U.S. schools typically reopening in late August—or right after Labor Day, should the holiday land on the first day or two of the month—fewer families embark on vacations in September, leading to smaller crowds throughout Disney World.
• Weather: September’s hot and rainy weather is less intense than the peak summer months. This could deter some guests while attracting others seeking less severe conditions.
• Hurricane Season: The peak of the Atlantic Hurricane season falls in September, potentially affecting park operations on one or two days and deterring some potential visitors.
• Crowd Ranking: In terms of crowd density, September ranks as the 10th most crowded month at Disney World, generally offering lower crowd levels than the peak summer months.
• Labor Day: Mild increases in visitor numbers occur around Labor Day weekend, but it’s not usually a major impact. This brief swell, when it does occur, recedes quickly after the holiday but gradually returns as the month progresses.
• Events: The ongoing Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party draw visitors but don’t significantly impact overall crowd numbers.

If hot, potentially stormy weather doesn’t deter you, September is a great time to visit Disney World with manageable crowds. See our Disney World Crowd Calendar and our guide on avoiding lines for more helpful insights.

Disney World Prices in September

School schedules, weather, and promotional offers influence Disney World prices in September 2026.

September is a transitional month, marking a shift from the end of the high summer season to the start of the fall, with prices generally falling around or below the yearly average. As the school year commences and summer heat lingers, you’ll find more competitive pricing, particularly post-Labor Day. It’s one of the cheapest times to go to Disney World.

Ticket Pricing

September Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays usually offer the cheapest ticket prices of the entire year (along with a few weekdays in late August), with some tickets going for as low as $119 per adult (ages 10+). The graphs below for September 2026 show the huge savings that can be found by focusing on mid-week visits versus weekends.

These are starting prices for single-day tickets, and they will go up depending on the theme park chosen, whether you add options such as park-hopping, and when adding additional days.

The lower August/September ticket prices are vastly cheaper than any other time of year—and it’s not even close.

Resort Hotel Pricing

Disney Deluxe Resorts generally maintain competitive pricing in September, while Value Resorts continue to offer lower rates in the first half of the month.

Here are a few hotel rate examples for September 2026, which should be treated as a “snapshot in time”—they’re accurate as of the date we published this article but will almost certainly change. Prices tend to go up as travel dates approach, and there are huge swings depending on which resort you pick, which room type you book, and what day of the week / week of the month you book.

• Saturday, September 5, 2026 (Saturday of Labor Day Weekend):
  • Pop Century (Value Resort): Starting at $229
  • Caribbean Beach (Moderate Resort): Starting at $326
  • Wilderness Lodge (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $550
• Wednesday, September 16, 2026:
  • Pop Century (Value Resort): Starting at $217
  • Caribbean Beach (Moderate Resort): Starting at $324
  • Wilderness Lodge (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $567
• Monday, September 28, 2026:
  • Pop Century (Value Resort): Starting at $217
  • Caribbean Beach (Moderate Resort): Starting at $365
  • Wilderness Lodge (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $567

To get current pricing for your exact dates, resort, and room type, contact The Vacationeer.

Overall Pricing

Other factors to consider when looking at September pricing:

• Hurricane and Heat Season: As peak hurricane and heat season subsides around mid-September, both crowd levels and prices see a slight uptick moving into fall.
• Discounts: September is historically the time for Disney’s Free Dining offer, one of their most aggressive discounts. It’s often accompanied by (but cannot be combined with) a substantial room-only discount that may offer a better overall savings.
• Average Cost: In 2025, the average cost for a week-long stay at Disney World for a family of four – including accommodations at a Value Resort, six-day theme park tickets, Lightning Lane passes, and Quick Service meals – was estimated at $6,785. Although the 2026 year-round average price will likely be higher, September 2026 prices should still represent a good bargain for theme park tickets (and even for rooms early in the month), so you will likely spend less than the yearly average if you time your trip wisely.

Use our Disney World Cost Calculator to estimate your Disney World expenses.

Disney World Weather in September: What to Expect

September in Disney World offers a gradual transition from summer’s scorching heat to the milder climate of the fall. Here’s what you can expect:

• Temperature: September typically sees average high temperatures around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), with lows generally around 73 degrees Fahrenheit (about 23 degrees Celsius). The temperatures start to slightly dip compared to the peak summer months of July and August.
• Subsiding Heat: While the summer heat continues into early September, it gradually subsides as the month progresses. If you can handle some heat and humidity, it offers a pleasant backdrop for exploring the parks.

• Rainfall: September ranks among the rainier months, with rain typically occurring on about 9 days of the month. These showers tend to be brief, though, so overall rainfall totals are usually less than the peak summer months (unless, of course, a tropical storm or hurricane is in the mix).

• Hurricane Season: September sits at the peak of the hurricane season in Florida, which extends through late October. While hurricanes can occur anytime from June to November, they are more probable in mid-September.

Image courtesy NOAA/NHC

Preparing for Disney World Weather in September

September at Disney World features hot, humid, and summer-like weather. Preparing ahead of time is the best way to ensure a comfortable visit.

• Heat Management: With temperatures often reaching the 90s, staying cool and hydrated is essential. Take advantage of free ice water from Quick Service restaurants and water refill stations throughout the parks. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly.
• Touring Strategy: Visit the parks early in the morning to avoid the peak afternoon heat. Purchasing Lightning Lanes passes can be a wise investment to bypass long queues during the hottest hours. You can take a break from the sun at attractions with indoor queues, such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
• Rain Preparedness: September experiences an average of 9 rainy days. Pack a lightweight poncho and wear waterproof footwear to navigate any downpours. Don’t let rain derail your plans – there’s plenty to do indoors. Visit our Disney Attractions to Escape the Rain page for suggestions.

Understanding and preparing for September’s weather at Disney World is essential for a pleasant experience. With the right strategies and preparations, you can enjoy the magic of Disney, rain or shine!

Hurricane Considerations for September Disney World Visits

Visiting Disney World in September means taking into account the risks associated with Florida’s peak hurricane season. Awareness and preparedness are essential for a worry-free trip.

• Peak Hurricane Season: Statistically, hurricanes are most likely from late August through late October, with mid-September being the peak. They can occur anytime from June through November. Since 1985, Disney World parks have had to close multiple times due to hurricanes in its history, with most of the closures happening in September.
• Recent Trends: Out of all the September closures, three occurred in the past ten years—2017, 2019, and 2022. Additionally, there was a “near miss” in September 2024 which cancelled a Halloween party but did not close the parks. While not a significant number over two decades, recent trends suggest a rise in September closures, indicating a need for visitors to be aware of this possibility. September 2025 passed with no hurricane activity at Disney World.
• Safety and Infrastructure: Thanks to Orlando’s inland location and advanced forecasts, safety is typically not a significant concern. Disney World’s infrastructure is built to weather these storms. However, dining options and hotel activities may be limited while the closures are in effect.
• Flexibility and Insurance: If a hurricane warning is issued for Orlando or your residence within seven days of your scheduled arrival, Disney provides the option to reschedule or cancel hotel packages and most room-only reservations without penalty. Consider travel insurance for added protection, as some exceptions may apply.

Despite September being the heart of hurricane season, you can still enjoy a magical Disney World trip during hurricane season if you plan ahead, prepare, and take the right precautions. Consult with an experienced Disney travel agent for additional information.

Ride Openings, Maintenance, Closures, and Refurbishments in September 2026

September signifies the transition from summer to fall at Disney World. During this change of seasons, there may be a slight uptick in
off-season refurbishments. Further complicating matters for 2026 is the massive development and expansion that’s underway at Disney World.

Visit our Disney World Refurbishment and Closure Calendar to see a list of work scheduled during your September visit. You might also be interested in our list of New Rides and Upcoming Openings. There should be a few new additions by the time September 2026 rolls around, and you won’t want to miss them!

Please keep in mind that these schedules and maintenance plans can fluctuate. We recommend contacting Disney World customer service or consulting with your preferred travel planner (such as The Vacationeer) for the most up-to-date information on the ride and hotel closures.

Early Park Closures in September 2026

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween party is in full swing by September—and that means early park closures at Magic Kingdom for roughly half of the nights in the month.

On days when the party is held—which can be as often as four times per week—Magic Kingdom will close at 6:00 pm for anyone who doesn’t have a party ticket. So be sure to check park schedules as your trip date approaches. While some folks prefer to avoid the park on party days due to the shorter hours, the real Disney experts know that crowds are often significantly lower on those days.

Disney World Water Parks in September (2026): What to Expect

In September, Disney World’s water parks – Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon – offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Both parks offer distinct attractions and activities, but their operating schedules vary. Here’s what to expect:

Water Park Operations: Since late 2019, Disney World has been alternating operations between its two water parks. But summer 2025 brought a surprise: both parks operating at the same time. Here’s a recent operating schedule history as well as a schedule of any future openings/closings announced so far:

• November 13, 2022: Blizzard Beach opens and Typhoon Lagoon closes.
• March 19, 2023: Typhoon Lagoon opens and Blizzard Beach closes.
• November 6, 2023: Blizzard Beach opens and Typhoon Lagoon closes.
• March 17, 2024: Typhoon Lagoon opens and Blizzard Beach closes.
• November 4, 2024: Blizzard Beach opens and Typhoon Lagoon closes.
• May 1, 2025: Typhoon Lagoon opens and Blizzard Beach closes.
• May 21, 2025: Typhoon Lagoon remains open as Blizzard Beach reopens.
  • BOTH water parks were open from May 21, 2025 – September 7, 2025 for the summer rush, something that hadn’t happened since before the pandemic.
• September 8, 2025: Blizzard Beach closes and Typhoon Lagoon remains open.

Predicted Schedule: For the past few years, Typhoon Lagoon would operate from spring to fall, with Blizzard Beach opening from fall to spring. But as mentioned above, Summer 2025 brought a quirk that touched parts of September 2025.

September 2026 Expectations: Disney has not specifically confirmed anything. But based on 2025 history and the fact that they’ve vaguely promised another free water park admission promo for hotel guests in summer 2026, our educated guess is that both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will operate through early or mid-September 2026, followed by just Typhoon Lagoon for the remainder of the month. Remember, our predictions are based on past performance, which is not a guarantee of future results.

You can add a splash of fun and refreshment to your September Disney World itinerary by visiting a Disney water park. For more detailed information about Disney water parks and assistance with your travel plans, don’t hesitate to contact The Vacationeer.

Experiencing Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival in September

There is no better time for culinary enthusiasts to experience Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival than September. 2026 dates have not yet been confirmed, but all of September is almost certain to be included. (2025’s festival dates were from August 28, 2025 to November 22, 2025.)

Festival highlights include the lively “Eat to the Beat” concert series, as well as diverse dining packages. The heart of the event lies in the international food and drink stalls scattered across the countries of Epcot’s World Showcase. These mini-gourmet destinations offer a unique taste of various countries, allowing you to embark on a flavorful tour around the world.

The festival also boasts limited-edition merchandise for those who love to collect unique souvenirs. These exclusive items capture the spirit of the festival and make perfect Disney World souvenirs.

For my wife and me, September and October are the best months to attend the festival. The slight cool down from summer’s heat lends an even more pleasant atmosphere to the event. As Disney World foodies, we always look forward to this journey through global cuisines, savoring new flavors and revisiting old favorites. We also enjoy the evening concerts, which are a great way to unwind after a long day.

Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival is more than just a culinary event. It’s a celebration of global culture, music, and the enchanting magic of Disney. If you’re planning a visit in September, prepare for a memorable experience and a happy belly.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in September

As the summer heat recedes and a gentle crispness creeps into the air, Disney World offers a delightful fusion of fall festivities and Disney magic in September. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a seasonal spectacular. The party season usually starts in August and runs through the end of October, with September sitting comfortably in the middle of this range.

2026 dates and pricing have not yet been announced.

There were 38 Halloween parties in 2025, 14 of which were in September (with additional dates in August and October).

September 2025 Halloween Party Dates: 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30

Ticket prices usually vary by date. 2025‘s prices ranged from $119 to $229 per person across the entire three-month party season. September prices are usually in the middle of the price range, with higher prices on weekends.

The event is a carefully curated balance of fun and fright, transforming the Magic Kingdom into an enchanting Halloween haven. Think Disney characters donning playful Halloween costumes, themed attractions filled with surprises, and a mesmerizing display of lasers and fireworks. And naturally, the tradition of trick-or-treating is kept alive throughout the park.

A standout of the event is the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. Here, guests can join in the bewitching celebration led by the infamous Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus on the stage of Cinderella’s Castle.

Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade is another must-see, featuring a merry cavalcade of characters, including the eerie occupants of the Haunted Mansion.

September’s gentle transition from summer to fall sets the perfect stage for this Halloween extravaganza. The cooler evenings lend themselves well to the ghostly décor and atmospheric lighting that transforms the park into a beautifully spooky spectacle.

The event is held on select nights with limited capacity, resulting in shorter wait times for attractions and plenty of themed treats.

For updates on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for September 2026 and to secure your tickets once available, contact The Vacationeer.

Is September the Best Month to Visit Disney World?

September may be the best month to visit Disney World for many reasons, but your comfort level with weather fluctuations and willingness to navigate potential disruptions during hurricane season will play a significant role in the decision.

For those who don’t mind some heat and humidity, the weather in September, while still warm, is typically more manageable than the peak summer months. Moreover, the threat of afternoon rain showers shouldn’t be a deterrent, as these are often brief and can offer a pleasant cool-down.

From a crowd perspective, September is golden. Schools reopening and the end of summer vacations lead to a significant decrease in crowd sizes, especially post-Labor Day. This allows for a more relaxed park experience and shorter wait times for most attractions.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, along with the family-friendly Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, offer unique entertainment opportunities. September is also a great time for the budget-conscious traveler. Post-Labor Day, prices generally dip, making it one of the most cost-effective periods to visit Disney World.

In a nutshell, if you can handle a little heat, the potential for some rainfall, and the uncertainty that comes with peak hurricane season, September might just be your ideal time to visit Disney World. However, if weather unpredictability seems stressful, it might be better to consider other months. As always, consulting with a knowledgeable resource like The Vacationeer can help you make an informed decision.

Comparing Disney World in September to Neighboring Months

When comparing Disney World in September with its neighboring months, August and October, several factors come into play:

• August or September?: Florida is typically hotter and more humid in August, with sporadic rainfall. The latter half of August sees the start of the hurricane season, resulting in fewer crowds and below-average prices. However, peak hurricane risk spans early to mid-September, causing potentially unpredictable weather but also leading to less crowded parks and continued below-average prices. Both months provide the opportunity to enjoy the Epcot Food & Wine Festival. Still, September offers the festival in full swing and a complete month of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party events.
• September or October?: October brings more pleasant weather than September, with less humidity and cooler temperatures. Although September is peak hurricane season, October sees a significant decline in this risk. The Epcot Food & Wine Festival and Halloween events occur in both months, but October also brings the beauty of fall decorations. However, October can be slightly busier due to fall breaks and Columbus Day weekend, and its prices are slightly higher than in September.

Overall, if you are okay with heat and potential storms in exchange for fewer crowds and lower prices, the latter part of August and most of September could be good options. If you prefer more comfortable weather and can live with slightly higher crowd levels and costs, October would be more suitable than September. Contact The Vacationeer for a free consultation.

Final Thoughts: Our Disney World Experience in September

My wife, Jaimie, and I have always found September at Disney World to be a truly delightful time to visit, blending warm weather, reduced crowds, and budget-friendly deals. It’s why we’ve marked it as one of our favorite months to explore the magic of Disney World.

We’re food enthusiasts, and the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, running throughout September, is a particular highlight for us. The reduced crowds mean we can take our time sampling the international flavors and enjoying the evening concerts without feeling crowded.

As for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, it’s a standout event. Seeing Disney World celebrate Halloween for the whole month is something we absolutely love. It’s a magical blend of fun and frights that adds a unique spin to our visit.

However, we also understand that September is the peak of hurricane season, and the lingering summer heat can be a drawback for some. We’ve been lucky so far, but we always make sure we’re prepared for any sudden changes in weather.

Our friend Mindy, who has spent the past few Septembers at Disney World, says, “The potential for a storm does add a bit of unpredictability, but the lower crowd levels and the chance to enjoy the Food & Wine Festival without feeling rushed more than make up for it.”

In summary, despite the chance of tropical weather, the combination of special events, fewer crowds, and budget-friendly opportunities make September a great time to visit Disney World. It’s an opinion that Jaimie, Jack, and I share. But as with any travel plan, it’s essential to consider personal preferences and to be prepared for possible weather disruptions.

Our month-by-month Disney World guides are useful resources for planning your vacation. They’re designed to provide you with detailed information on events, pricing trends, crowd sizes, weather, and new attractions for each month.

Discover the best month for your Disney vacation with our comprehensive guides to the other months of the year:

• Disney World in January
• Disney World in February
• Disney World in March
• Disney World in April
• Disney World in May
• Disney World in June
• Disney World in July
• Disney World in August
• Disney World in October
• Disney World in November
• Disney World in December

Whether you’re a Disney first-timer or a seasoned enthusiast, our guides will help you plan a Disney vacation that’s tailored to your specific needs and preferences.