Disney World in August (2026): A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Disney World in August 2026, this guide has everything you need. It’s filled with important dates, special events, weather updates, crowd size estimates, and helpful tips to make your booking process easy. Whether you’re still deciding on your dates or have them set, our comprehensive guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable Disney World vacation in August 2026.

The August Advantage: Disney World 2026

August at Disney World offers a unique blend of summertime charm and diminishing crowd sizes, making it an excellent month for a visit. With many families winding down their summer vacations, the parks become less crowded, especially toward the end of the month.

In 2026, August will likely include the beginning of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, albeit late in the month. This event offers visitors a chance to taste a wide variety of global cuisines and participate in culinary workshops and live concerts.

Mid-August also usually welcomes the start of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party from mid-month. This fun and lightly spooky event is a family favorite, offering an early taste of Halloween magic.

During August, the tropical Florida weather is ideal for enjoying Disney’s water parks and resort pools. Yes, its hurricane season, and there can be afternoon showers, but they usually don’t last long. The rain often cools things down and makes the evenings enjoyable.

The cost of a Disney World trip in August starts average but drops in the second half, making it ideal for budget travelers.

In summary, visiting Disney World in August offers a variety of fun experiences with the Food & Wine Festival, reduced crowd sizes, lower costs in the latter part of the month, and the early arrival of Halloween festivities.

August’s Potential Downsides:

While considering a trip to Disney World in August, there are a few things to keep in mind. Florida’s weather in August is typically hot and humid, which might not suit everyone. Additionally, the possibility of afternoon rain showers can sometimes result in brief closures of certain outdoor attractions.

More importantly, August falls during the peak of Florida’s hurricane season. While major hurricanes affecting travel plans are relatively rare, it’s a factor that cannot be overlooked.

However, these challenges can be managed with good planning and a flexible attitude. A carefully planned itinerary and a readiness to adapt can ensure your Disney World visit in August remains a memorable and magical experience.

Disney World Key Dates and Events, August 2026

If you’re planning a Disney World vacation in August 2026, these are the key dates and events you should be aware of:

• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (Expected to begin in late August 2026): In 2025, this culinary extravaganza was scheduled from August 29 to November 22, meaning you could enjoy it during a late August visit. 2026 dates are yet to be announced.
• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Expected on select nights starting mid-August 2026): This family-friendly Halloween event typically kicks off in early to mid-August at Magic Kingdom. For 2025, the start date was August 15, 2025, with seven party nights during the month. 2026 dates are TBD.
• Back to School (Mid-Late August 2026): In August, schools typically resume in the U.S., so crowds tend to thin out. This is especially noticeable towards the end of August, making it the perfect time to visit if you don’t like crowds.
• ESPN Wide World of Sports Events: While ESPN Wide World of Sports hosts a few athletic events in August, none are typically large enough to significantly impact crowd levels. However, Disney’s All-Star hotels usually see an influx of crowds during events.

These key dates and events could influence crowd sizes, resort availability, and overall experience, so be sure to factor them into your planning. A little foresight can go a long way in making your August Disney World vacation in 2026 a magical experience.

Will Disney World be Crowded in August?

Various factors affect crowd patterns at Disney World in August, including school vacations, weather, and special events. Here is a snapshot of what to expect in August 2026.

• Summer Holidays, Heat, and Hurricane Season: August represents a notable shift in Disney World’s crowd patterns. The month starts with many families wrapping up their summer vacations. As school-age children start heading back to the classroom, the latter part of August experiences reduced crowd levels. Alongside this, Florida’s intense summer heat – and the onset of hurricane season – can moderate crowd levels.
• Crowd Ranking: August ranks 10th in crowd size compared to other months. It’s quieter than June and July but slightly busier than September, excluding Labor Day.
• Special Events: Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival, typically starting in late August, and the start of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (typically mid-month) can attract more visitors to Epcot and Magic Kingdom, respectively.
• Labor Day Influence: In 2026, Labor Day falls on September 7th. That’s relatively “late,” so you may not see as significant of a holiday crowd impact at the end of August as you would have seen in, say, 2025 (when Labor Day was September 1). Regardless, Labor Day crowds are not typically severe.

In summary, while August is part of the summer season, its crowd levels are manageable. The start of school and high temperatures can deter some families, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a balance between fewer crowds and summer vacation dates. Check out our Disney World Crowd Calendar and guide on avoiding lines for more insights.

Disney World Prices in August

The weather, summer vacations, and seasonal offers affect August pricing at Disney World. Here’s a rundown for August 2026:

Resort Pricing

Prices for Disney’s Deluxe Resorts continue to be reduced throughout August, remaining competitive with low-season rates. However, Disney’s Value Resorts only begin to see a (minor) price dip in mid-August as families return to school routines. Nonetheless, late August (and early September) can be the cheapest time of year outside of mid-winter.

Here are a few hotel rate examples for August 2026, which should be treated as a “snapshot in time”—accurate as of the date we published this article but most definitely subject to change. Prices tend to go up as travel dates approach.

• Saturday, August 1, 2026:
  • All-Star Sports (Value Resort): Starting at $214
  • Port Orleans French Quarter (Moderate Resort): Starting at $304
  • Yacht Club (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $621
• Wednesday, August 12, 2026:
  • All-Star Sports (Value Resort): Starting at $161
  • Port Orleans French Quarter (Moderate Resort): Starting at $334
  • Yacht Club (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $586
• Friday, August 28, 2026:
  • All-Star Sports (Value Resort): Starting at $183
  • Port Orleans French Quarter (Moderate Resort): Starting at $340
  • Yacht Club (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $613

Ticket Pricing

Similar to resorts, ticket prices gradually decrease as the month progresses, transitioning from high-summer to the less crowded off-peak season. Ticket prices for weekdays near the end of the month bottom out at $119, the lowest point of the year by far (shared with weekdays in early September). Prices creep up again slightly for the last few days of the month, thanks to the “last hurrah” of summer with the approaching Labor Day holiday weekend.

Looking at the entire year of ticket prices, it’s immediately clear how much of a bargain weekdays in late August or early September can be compared to any other time of the year, at least in terms of ticket prices.

Note that all the price graphs shown here track the starting price of a one-day base ticket to a single theme park. This starting price usually applies only to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park; other parks will cost more, with Magic Kingdom occasionally costing up to $30 above the starting price during some parts of the year. You’ll also pay more for multi-day tickets, or adding park hopping or water park options.

Overall Pricing

• Seasonal Transition: August is characterized by a gradual shift in pricing, reflective of the transition from high-summer to off-peak season. While the first half of the month is average due to summer vacations, the second half sees a significant drop in prices due to kids returning to school. The last half of August is recognized as one of the cheapest times to go to Disney World.
• Hurricane Season Influence: As Florida’s hurricane season peaks from mid-August to mid-September, both crowd levels and prices at Disney World tend to dip.
• August Discounts: Disney World traditionally announces a summer discount offer, which extends into August. This offer typically provides around 20% off room rates, varying by hotel, room type, and availability.

In 2025, the overall average cost of a typical week-long Disney World vacation for a family of four was estimated at $6,785. This includes a stay at a Value Resort with six-day theme park tickets, Lightning Lane access, and Quick Service meals. Even when accounting for annual increases, your August 2026 trip pricing could still be significantly lower than the year-round estimate if you’re able to travel later in the month (less expensive) rather than earlier in the month (more expensive).

Calculate your potential expenses with our Disney World Cost Calculator.

Disney World Weather in August: What to Expect

As Florida’s summer season persists, August at Disney World brings hot, tropical weather, providing a genuine Floridian summer experience. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Temperature

August typically sees average high temperatures around 91 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius), with lows generally around 74 degrees Fahrenheit (23 degrees Celsius). August is in a near-tie with July as the hottest month at Disney World.

Florida’s Summer Heat: The heat continues into August, making it an excellent time to visit Disney’s water parks and resort pools. However, some visitors might find the intense heat uncomfortable and may choose to visit during a cooler month.

Rainfall

August, alongside July, records the highest number of rainy days, with rain typically occurring on about 13 days of the month and totaling more than 8 inches altogether. These showers tend to be brief and can offer a welcome respite from the heat for a few minutes — though things often quickly turn steamy afterwards.

Hurricane Season

August marks the beginning of the peak period for hurricanes in Florida, which extends through late October. While hurricanes can occur anytime from June to November, they are more probable from late August onward.

Image courtesy NOAA/NHC

These storms are typically predicted in advance, allowing visitors to adjust their plans accordingly.

Preparing for Disney World Weather in August

The summer season at Disney World continues into August, bringing soaring temperatures and a high likelihood of rain. Being well-prepared is crucial to ensuring a comfortable visit, no matter the weather.

• Handling the Summer Heat: Expect high temperatures during August, especially during mid-afternoon hours. Staying hydrated is imperative; utilize the free ice water available at Quick Service restaurants and the many water refill stations scattered across the parks. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harsh rays.
• Adjusting Your Touring Strategy: To avoid the heat, start your park visits early in the morning and use Lightning Lanes passes to bypass long lines during the hottest part of the day. You can stay cool by choosing attractions with indoor queues, such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
• Preparing for Rain: August’s showers are usually short but can be intense. Wear waterproof footwear and pack a lightweight poncho for unexpected rainfall. A rainy forecast shouldn’t deter your plans; plenty of enjoyable indoor activities are available. See our ‘Disney Attractions to Escape the Rain‘ page for suggestions.

In conclusion, planning ahead for August’s conditions and keeping an eye on the weather at Disney World while you’re there will ensure a fantastic Disney World experience. The magic of Disney shines, come rain or high sunshine!

Hurricane Considerations for August Disney World Visits

Mid-August marks the beginning of Florida’s peak hurricane season. Those planning a Disney World trip during hurricane season should be mindful of possible park closures due to severe weather.

In Disney World’s history, more than a dozen hurricanes have led to either reduced hours or complete park closures at Disney World. Only a few of those occurred in August.

While only a few closures have happened in August over two decades, recent trends indicate a rise in closures outside of August, suggesting a possible future closure in this month. Planning your visit early in August can potentially reduce the risk of encountering a hurricane.

Safety is usually not a significant concern for visitors as Orlando’s inland location and early forecasts help manage hurricane threats. While weather conditions may lead to temporary park closures, Disney World’s infrastructure is built to withstand these events. However, closures might limit dining options and hotel activities until conditions improve.

Disney provides flexibility in rescheduling or canceling hotel packages and most room-only reservations without penalty if the National Hurricane Center issues a hurricane warning for Orlando or your residence within 7 days of your scheduled arrival.

Though Disney and airlines strive to alleviate the financial impacts of hurricanes on travelers, some exceptions may apply. Therefore, considering travel insurance can be beneficial. Consult with a knowledgeable Disney travel agent for any questions or concerns.

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

Disney World remains lively throughout August. Given that it’s still summer, water rides are fully functional, and extensive ride refurbishments are generally avoided. But there are some exceptions, especially given the massive development and expansion that’s underway at Disney World over the next few years.

Visit our Disney World Refurbishment and Closure Calendar to see a list of work scheduled during your visit. You might also be interested in our list of New Rides and Upcoming Openings so you’ll know what new attractions to add to your itinerary.

Note that refurbishment schedules can change without warning. For the most accurate information on ride and hotel closures, contact Disney World customer service or consult your trusted travel planner. The Vacationeer is the best resource for planning information.

Early Park Closures

Mid-August typically marks the beginning of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween party—and that means early park closures at Magic Kingdom several days 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.

Should you avoid the park those days? There are two different schools of thought. One group of Guests seems to avoid Magic Kingdom on party days, as they would get less time in the park for the money. Others love visiting on party days, as the crowds are usually significantly lower (thanks to the first group’s way of thinking).

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

Disney World’s water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, offer a refreshing break from August’s intense heat. Each park boasts unique water attractions and activities, but their operating schedules can vary. Here’s our anticipated scenario for August 2026:

Water Park Operations: For the past few years, Disney World has been running one water park at a time. But summer 2025 offered a welcome break from that tradition, with both water parks open.

Here’s a recent operating schedule history as well as future openings/closings we’ve been made aware of:

• 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 are open from May 21, 2025 – September 7, 2025 for the summer rush, something that hasn’t happened since before the pandemic.
• September 8, 2025: Blizzard Beach closes and Typhoon Lagoon remains open.

Predicted Schedule: We normally expect the water parks to operate in several-month cycles. Typhoon Lagoon would likely be open from spring to fall, with Blizzard Beach open from fall through spring. However, as mentioned above, summer 2025 broke this cycle which had held steady since 2019.

August 2026 Expectation: Barring any official announcements to the contrary, we would expect that summer 2026 will be similar, with both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach likely to be open throughout August 2026.

Remember, our pattern estimates are based in part on past trends, and actual schedules may be changed from time to time. Adding a Disney water park to your August Disney World vacation can provide a fun and cooling experience. For more information about Disney water parks and help planning your itinerary, reach out to The Vacationeer.

Experiencing Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival in August

The 2026 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, a highly-anticipated culinary event, will most likely start near the very end of the month. This means that those visiting in the last week of August could be able to take full advantage of this gastronomic adventure and enjoy an array of mouth-watering flavors from around the world.

The festival offers an exciting variety of experiences, from the vibrant “Eat to the Beat” concert series to a range of carefully curated dining packages showcasing the delights of international cuisine. The focal point of the festival is the international food and drink stalls, each boasting delicious flavors from various countries. As you wander around Epcot’s World Showcase, you can savor the world one bite at a time.

For those wanting a memento, the festival also offers limited-edition merchandise, capturing the spirit of the event. These keepsakes are perfect as gifts or as special Disney World souvenirs.

At its core, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is about the joy of discovery and indulgence. This is something that my wife Jaimie and I, as dedicated Disney World foodies, look forward to every year. We love discovering new tastes and revisiting our favorites. Celebrating global cuisine in the magical atmosphere of Epcot is a tradition we cherish.

August 2026: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Likely Begins

As summer wanes and hints of autumn appear, Disney World hosts a spooktacular event perfect for fans of the mysterious and magical. Mid- to Late August is typically the timeframe of Magic Kingdom theme park’s first Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.

2026 party dates have not yet been announced. For historical reference, there were seven Halloween parties in August, starting as early as August 15, 2025.

Tickets prices for 2026 are TBD—2025’s prices ranged from $119 to $229 per person across the entire three-month party season. August’s rates are usually lower than other months, unless you’re planning to attend the first few parties.

Disney amps up the magic with an array of exciting and eerie experiences for all. Picture your favorite Disney characters in Halloween costumes, attractions brimming with mysterious surprises, and an impressive show of lasers and fireworks. Of course, no Halloween would be complete without trick-or-treating.

Friendly Scarecrows in Town Square at Magic Kingdom

One of the highlights of the party is the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. Get ready to join the Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus as they lead a wild celebration on Cinderella Castle’s stage. Don’t miss Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade either, which features a parade of characters, including some from the Haunted Mansion.

August in Florida might be hot and at risk of hurricanes, but Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party’s early days could make it worth the trip. Imagine the summer heat easing as night falls and the park morphs into a hauntingly beautiful spectacle with jack-o-lanterns, cobwebs, and ghostly lights. It’s a unique experience that adds a special touch to an August Disney World visit.

This special event, happening on select nights, offers limited-capacity attendance for shorter attraction wait times and themed treats. To secure your tickets, get in touch with The Vacationeer.

Is August the Best Month to Visit Disney World?

Deciding if August is the right month for your Disney World visit depends on your personal preferences. Here are some factors:

• Weather: August in Florida is characterized by hot, humid conditions with average high temperatures of around 91 degrees. The onset of peak hurricane season and the potential for afternoon showers may bring about unexpected weather changes. It is ideal for visitors who enjoy the summer warmth and Disney World’s swimming pools and water parks. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures or don’t want to risk hurricanes, consider visiting another month.
• Crowds: August sees many families concluding their summer vacations early in the month, causing initially higher crowd levels to subside as schools begin their new year. The onset of the hurricane season can also reduce crowds later in the month as people are wary of traveling at this time.
• Events: Later August visitors may have a chance to enjoy Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival, which offers a taste journey around the globe. Additionally, they might be able to catch Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, typically starting mid-month.
• Pricing: Prices in August usually start higher and decline as the month advances, mirroring crowd trends. Early-year discounts often apply to August bookings. The approach of the Labor Day weekend in early September can lead to a slight price bump at month’s end.

In summary, August offers the warmth of summer, some of Disney’s most anticipated seasonal events, and potentially lower crowd levels and prices. However, it is a hot and humid month, with the potential for rain or storms. To determine whether August is right for your Disney trip, contact The Vacationeer.

Comparing Disney World in August to Neighboring Months

Comparing August with its adjacent months, July and September, can help determine the optimal time for your Disney World visit.

• July or August?: July typically ranks as the 5th or 6th busiest month at Disney World, with pricing spikes during the 4th of July week. In contrast, August, especially its second half, presents less crowded conditions and ranks as the 10th least busy month. With many families returning to school and hurricane season ramping up, prices dip significantly in late August, making it one of the most cost-effective times to visit Disney World.
• August or September?: Both months usually feature Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival (though the festival barely touches the end of August), with an added hurricane threat. The last 3-ish days August usually see the exciting beginning of the festival, while September offers a more relaxed experience with the festival in full swing. The Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party usually starts in mid-August, offering a blend of fun and spooky experiences. However, September offers a whole month of Halloween events and generally has fewer crowds and lower prices than August.

Ultimately, August, particularly its latter half, offers a less crowded, more affordable Disney experience with the beginning of Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival and early Halloween events. However, September could be the ideal choice for a quieter, cost-effective visit with an entire month of Halloween festivities. Consult with The Vacationeer before making any decisions.

Final Thoughts: Disney World in August

August offers a unique and memorable experience at Disney World, blending the tropical Florida climate, fewer crowds towards the month’s end, and average to lower pricing. These elements create an appealing combination for many visitors.

One of the key highlights of August is the beginning of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. This gastronomic journey, which usually begins in late August and runs throughout the fall, allows guests to savor a wide range of international cuisines.

In addition, mid-August typically marks the start of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This family-friendly event introduces a mix of fun and mildly spooky experiences, giving visitors an early taste of Halloween festivities.

Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that August is within the hurricane season, and this might influence travel plans. While the risk of significant disruption is low, it’s still a factor to consider when deciding on your visit dates. Also, it’s important to remember that August, much like July, is among Florida’s hottest and wettest months, which some visitors might find uncomfortable.

Crowd levels in August begin moderately but tend to decrease as the month progresses, especially in the second half. This coincides with lower pricing, making the latter part of August a particularly attractive period for budget-conscious visitors.

Compared with other months, August offers a great mix of events, moderate crowd levels, and cost-effectiveness. While the potential for tropical weather conditions and intense heat exists, the unique experiences – such as the Food & Wine Festival and early Halloween celebrations – make August a compelling choice.

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 September
• 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.