Disney World in February (2026): A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning a February 2026 trip to Disney World? Our guide will help you navigate the details. We discuss important dates, weather patterns, expected crowd sizes, and the best booking strategies. Not sure if February is a good time to visit Disney? We’ll shed light on that too. Additionally, we share a personal story from someone I know well to give you an insider’s look. This information is all about making your February Disney World vacation planning as simple and straightforward as possible.

The February Advantage: Disney World 2026

One of the key advantages of February is its affordability: it is one of the cheapest months to visit Disney World, at least in terms of hotel pricing. In January and early February, hotel rates are typically the lowest of the year. The price usually rises considerably after this period of time, reaching a peak around Presidents’ Day. In addition, early February is generally the time when the tickets are the lowest.

So, if budget is a concern, the start of February is an ideal period to experience the magic of Disney World without stretching your wallet.

Aside from cost benefits, visiting Disney World in February offers several other advantages. The weather is generally mild and enjoyable, making it comfortable to spend your day exploring the parks. Moreover, February marks the occurrence of unique events such as the Epcot International Festival of the Arts and the Disney Princess Half Marathon.

Disney World Key Events and Dates, February 2026

Consider these key dates and events for your Disney World trip in February 2026:

• Epcot International Festival of the Arts (until mid- or late-February): This relatively new arts festival allows guests to explore various artistic disciplines – visual, culinary, and performing arts. 2026 dates have not yet been announced, but 2025 dates were from January 17 to February 24, 2025. It is not merely an entertainment event but also an educational one, which makes it an excellent pick for families and art lovers.
• ESPN Wide World of Sports Events (throughout February): The ESPN sports complex hosts various athletic events during February, contributing to the surge in crowds, particularly in value resorts like All-Star Sports. It’s an excellent opportunity for sports enthusiasts to witness competitive athletics in a Disney setting.
• Presidents’ Day (February 16, 2026): This national holiday leads to an influx of guests from the preceding Friday until the following Tuesday, with the crowd peaking over the weekend. Even though there are no special celebrations at the resort on this day, the large crowds give the impression that it is a major holiday. I recommend avoiding this time if you are uncomfortable with crowds.
• Disney Princess Half Marathon (February 26 – March 2, 2026): A 5K, 10K, and half marathon will be held in late February 2026, attracting Disney fans as well as fitness buffs. While the crowd size tends to decrease during race weekends (rather than increase), this does not significantly affect the park experience. Even if you don’t participate, you can watch from the sidelines (if you don’t mind getting up very early).
• Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival (Will it appear in February 2026?): In 2024, February included an unexpected taste of EPCOT’s primary springtime event. The Flower and Garden Festival typically begins in March, but for 2024 it kicked off a few days early on February 28. This appears to have simply been a quirk of the 2024 calendar, as 2025’s event didn’t begin until March 5. Will 2026 return to February or stay in March? March is most likely, but we’ll have to wait to find out for sure. The festival features beautiful topiary and floral displays, along with gardening demonstrations and taste-tempting outdoor kitchens at this festival.

These dates and events may affect crowd sizes and resort availability in February 2026.

Disney World Weather in February: What to Expect

Disney World in February experiences mild winter weather, with average highs hovering around 74 degrees Fahrenheit (23 degrees Celsius) and average lows approximately 51 degrees Fahrenheit (about 11 degrees Celsius).

Florida’s Cold: The “cold season” in Florida is different from what we experience in the rest of the country. My wife and I hail from Massachusetts, and we find Florida’s February weather to be delightfully mild. But we’ve learned to pack a few extra layers to fend off the chill during the evenings.

No Summer Heat: Florida’s intense summer heat is usually absent in February, making it the ideal time to explore Disney World’s outdoor attractions. Make sure you pack clothing that will keep you comfortable.

Rainfall: Disney World typically experiences five to six days of precipitation in February. The hurricane season ends before February, which aids in making this month relatively dry.

Planning for Rain: While February is usually dry, it can occasionally rain or downpour. Pack ponchos and appropriate footwear, just in case, rather than planning your Disney World trip around rain forecasts. Our Disney Attractions to Escape the Rain page provides excellent ideas for rainy-day activities.

February’s weather at Disney World makes it a great time for a visit, providing you prepare for the occasional cold snap or unexpected shower. Remember, it’s always better to be prepared!

Will Disney World be Crowded in February?

Knowing the trends and key events that affect crowd sizes can be helpful. Though February was once viewed as a low-crowd season, it has evolved into one of Disney World’s busier months.

The crowd patterns in February at Disney World are typically consistent, except during Presidents’ Day. This holiday falls between winter and spring breaks, drawing a significant number of visitors to Disney World during that week and weekend. If possible, we suggest avoiding this period.

Apart from Presidents’ Day, February feels a bit like an early spring season at Disney World. Crowds begin to increase earlier than they did in the past, but they are still not as large as the spring break crowds seen in March and April.

In recent years, we’ve observed an uptick in visitors during February. We’re uncertain why this trend is occurring and whether it will persist. In response to this growing popularity, Disney has reduced the discounts typically offered during February.

In summary, if you want to dodge large crowds, it’s best to steer clear of Presidents’ Day weekend (and week) in February. The rest of the month is generally busy, but the crowds are manageable.

Keep in mind that crowd trends can shift yearly or even daily. Flexibility is just as crucial as being prepared. For more advice, check out our Disney Crowd Calendar and our guide on avoiding lines at Disney World.

Disney World Prices in February

Disney World’s February prices are generally average, but they are affected by dynamic factors. The month’s growing popularity and key events like Presidents’ Day weekend and the start of spring break can cause price fluctuations. Further, ticket price increases have chipped away some of the savings found in Februarys of prior years. The saving grace is that hotel prices have remained relatively steady over the past couple of years, keeping intact some savings.

Theme Park Tickets

NOTE: We’re still awaiting 2026 ticket price info. In the meantime, here’s historic data from 2025.

The lowest-priced theme park tickets for February 2025 were on February 1-2 & 6-9, starting at $154. Ticket prices for February 3-5 and 14-22 started at $169, which was at the highest published price of the year (tied with spring break weekends, the Easter Holiday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas). This graph shows starting prices for a one-day base ticket at the cheapest theme park (usually Animal Kingdom); prices increase based on the park chosen and the addition of options such as park hopping.

February 2025 Starting Ticket Prices

February 2025’s starting price of $154 was a fairly significant increase versus 2024, which offered at least a few days as low as $134. And of course these prices are well above the lowest ticket prices of the year ($119, available only on weekdays in late August and most of September).

Graph showing variations in the starting ticket price throughout 2025

Hotels

NOTE: We’re still awaiting 2026 hotel rate info. In the meantime, here’s historic data from 2025.

Early booking can help secure better hotel rates. There are a variety of Disney resort hotels available, ranging from budget-friendly Disney Value Resorts to luxury Disney Deluxe Resorts – and Disney Moderate Resorts in between.  Your choice of accommodation is a key factor that can be managed to control overall expenses.

Here’s sample pricing for a standard room at Disney’s All Star Sports Resort, a Disney Value Resort. Although prices will increase depending on the type of hotel and room chosen (and how long you wait to book), this gives an example of the “seasonality” at play.

February 2025 starting hotel rates

The earlier dates such as February 3-5, 2025 started at $117 — that was the lowest price point of the entire year (tied with many weekdays in January). Weekdays later in February generally match weekday price points in the remainder of spring and fall, but weekends in late February are among the highest weekday rates outside of the expected spike during the holiday season.

Starting rates at Disney’s All Star Sports Resort in 2025

A look at the year-round calendar shows Disney’s hotel pricing strategy in which weekends are costlier, but it’s not quite as straightforward as “Saturdays and Sundays cost more.” Weekends tend to be priced on a sort of “shoulder” model.  Mondays-Wednesdays are cheapest, followed by an increase for Thursday nights. Fridays and Saturdays are higher still, then prices dip a little lower on Sunday nights before returning to the lower rates again for the next Monday night.

Overall Costs

In 2025, the overall average cost for a week-long Disney World vacation for a family of four was around $6,785. This includes accommodations at a Disney Value Resort, six-day standard theme park tickets, a skip-the-lines service, and quick-service meals. 2026’s average is not yet available as ticket and hotel rates haven’t been released, but it’s generally a safe bet to expect them to be a bit higher than the prior year. Regardless of whatever 2026’s average ends up being, February costs should be slightly lower than the overall year-round average IF you’re able to avoid weekends and the President’s Day holiday.

In conclusion, while February at Disney World sees a dynamic cost pattern due to its rising popularity, early bookings, and strategic planning can ensure an affordable and memorable trip. Our Disney World Cost Calculator can provide a more detailed understanding of pricing throughout the year.

Typically, February discounts are announced around October. They can vary by hotel, room type, and availability. Consider reaching out to The Vacationeer for expert assistance.

February Ride Maintenance/Refurbishments (Closures) and New Ride Openings

February at Disney World is part of the park’s winter refurbishment season. Minor refurbishments and temporary closures are typical during this time. Here are a few expected closures, openings, and updates:

Theme Parks and Attractions

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom): Closed starting January 6, 2025 for a refurbishment lasting at least one year. Reopens sometime in 2026 (exact date not yet known).
• Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin (Magic Kingdom): Closed starting sometime in August 2025 for a refurbishment to add new gameplay elements. Reopens sometime in 2026 (exact date not yet known).
• Kali River Rapids (Animal Kingdom): Typically closes in January for an annual winter refurbishment. It usually reopens sometime between late February and early April.
• Test Track (EPCOT): Should be back open in time for your February 2026 trip, following a major refresh spanning 2024 and 2025.
• TriceraTop Spin (Animal Kingdom): Closed permanently in 2025 as part of the transformation of Dinoland U.S.A into Tropical Americas / Pueblo Esperanza.
• Zootopia: Better Zoogether! / It’s Tough to Be a Bug (Animal Kingdom): It’s Tough to Be a Bug is permanently closed starting March 17, 2025 for transformation into new Zootopia: Better Zoogether! show. The new show opens sometime in Winter 2025, with an exact date TBA. We would expect it to be open by February 2026, but that hasn’t yet been confirmed.

Resort Hotels and Amenities

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Bay Cove Pool, the nearby water play area, and the whirlpool spa will all be closed from late January 26, 2026 through early May 2026. Pools at the primary “A-frame” tower of Disney’s Contemporary Resort will remain open for Guests to use during the Bay Lake Tower pool closure.
• Disney’s All Star Sports Resort – Surfboard Bay Pool and Kiddie Pool: Closed from January 2026 through Late April 2026. The Grand Slam Leisure Pool will remain open, and affected Guests will also be allowed to use the pools at All-Star Music Resort and All-Star Movies Resort.
• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Construction continues on multiple projects around the resort, with work underway through 2026.
• Disney’s Pop Century Resort: Room refurbishment set to take place from late March 2025 through mid-February 2026. All resort amenities are expected to remain available, but Guests may notice construction during daytime hours.
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside: Room refurbishment is set to take place in the Magnolia Bend region of the resort through the end of January 2026. February 2026 could be affected if the project dates happen to “slide” due to weather or construction delays. Guests may see or hear construction work in the area.
• Resort Pools: Routine maintenance closures are not uncommon during this time of year.

Transportation, Water Parks, Golf Courses, and More

• Disney Water Parks: Only one of the two parks (Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon) typically operates at a time, with the other being closed. But a summer 2025 change in the pattern could ripple over into February 2026 operations. See Water Parks section below for further info.

Remember that the exact schedules can change, and maintenance plans are sometimes adjusted. For the most current and accurate information on ride and hotel closures during your visit, consider contacting Disney World directly or consulting with your travel planner (we recommend The Vacationeer).

Disney World Water Parks in February 2026: What to Expect:

Disney World’s water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, have seen variations in their seasonal operations over recent years. Based on these trends and operational patterns, here’s what you can expect for February 2026:

Water Park Schedules: After closing for the pandemic, Disney World has mainly operated just one water park at a time recently. But Disney announced a change to this pattern for Summer 2025:

• 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 will be open from May 21, 2025 – September 7, 2025 for the summer rush, something that hasn’t happened since before the pandemic.

Projected Operating Months: So what does the change mean for the months after summer 2025? Will each water park continue to alternate being open in multi-month intervals? If so, the likely schedule would have Typhoon Lagoon operating from spring through fall, and Blizzard Beach from fall through spring. Or will they return to a pre-2019 schedule pattern, in which both parks remain open for most of the year, with a brief refurbishment in the off-season? We simply don’t know yet.

February 2026 Forecast: Based on what we know right now (prior patterns and no official announcement about the future), our best guess is that Blizzard Beach would be the only operational water park in February 2026. But that absolutely could change, especially given the big unknowns about how summer 2025 will affect things going forward.

Despite uncertainties, you can generally expect at least one water park to be open during your visit in February. However, remember that colder weather can lead to unexpected water park closures on individual days. Therefore, it might be a good idea not to focus heavily on water park activities during your February trip. Having a backup plan in case of closures is a good strategy.

How to Prepare for Walt Disney World Half Marathon 2026

Preparing for the Disney Princess Half Marathon in 2026 involves more than just warming up for the race. It demands strategic planning, diligent preparation, and prompt registration. As a part of the enchanting Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, this event is slated for February 26 – March 2, 2026.

Registration officially begins on June 24, 2025, through the runDisney website. However, Gold or Platinum members of Club runDisney enjoy an advantage, gaining access to registration a week earlier, on June 17, 2025. As these races often reach capacity quickly, prompt sign-up is recommended.

Completing the 13.1-mile course through the Walt Disney World Resort is not only a physical feat but also a fun-filled experience, with plenty of Disney character sightings and lively entertainment along the route. Registration benefits include a race shirt, a personalized bib, refreshments before, during, and after the race, a virtual goodie bag, a printable finisher’s certificate, and a distinctive medal upon crossing the finish line.

In addition to the marathon, your February visit can be enriched by attending the art festival at Epcot and soaking up the festive atmosphere of Presidents’ Day. So, gear up for a magical adventure filled with fun and excitement, timely register for the half marathon, and plan your Disney journey meticulously.

Comparing Disney World in February (2026) to Neighboring Months

Comparing February with its adjacent months, January and March, can help you determine if it’s the right month for you.

• January or February?: There isn’t a considerable difference between these months in terms of experiences. However, mid to late February usually sees a surge in crowd numbers and prices. It might be best to avoid this period if possible. For that matter, February prices seem to have creeped up, making January a bit more financially attractive than February versus prior years when there wasn’t much difference. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your personal schedule and the ability to evade major events such as New Year’s, MLK Jr. Day, and the Marathon in January, or the Princess Half Marathon and Presidents’ Day vacation week/weekend in February.
• February or March?: March generally sees higher crowds than February but also brings several attractions with it. The Flower & Garden Festival usually starts in March when the weather is milder and less cold compared to February. For 2026, the beginning of March is slightly complicated by the encroachment of the Princess Half Marathon weekend, which in prior years was complete by late February. While March’s high crowds can be a concern, the unpredictable nature of February crowds can make March a more predictable and potentially better overall experience.

If you can time your visit away from late-February crowds, February could be an attractive option for some. While it does have cooler temperatures and manageable crowd sizes, remember to factor in potential cold spells and fluctuating schedules. It’s advisable to discuss your options with The Vacationeer to make an informed choice.

Is February the Best Month to Visit Disney World?

Determining the best month for a Disney World visit largely depends on personal preferences, as each month brings its unique advantages and drawbacks. Here are some considerations for a February visit:

• Crowds: February offers a varied crowd experience. Although the month generally begins with a moderate crowd, numbers can surge during the Presidents’ Day weekend and the Princess Half Marathon.
• Cost: The prices are generally average, with lower prices at the beginning of the month and higher prices during peak times.
• Weather: February offers mild weather, a refreshing break from Florida’s intense heat. But remember, it can also get chilly, demanding additional layers of clothing.
• Attractions: While most attractions remain operational, certain water rides and parks may undergo refurbishments or close due to cooler temperatures.

Would you prefer the hot yet less crowded late summer months, even amid the hurricane season? Or do you lean towards the cooler – albeit potentially crowded – February? Perhaps you’re drawn to festive seasons like Halloween or Christmas?

Your plans might be influenced by weather, school holidays or festive periods, each bringing distinct experiences – from the buzz of holiday celebrations to the lively summer ambiance.

Answering these questions can help you assess whether February aligns with your vision of the perfect Disney World visit. However, considering recent trends, the cooler months from October to January might offer a more comfortable balance of crowd sizes and costs (unless February is your only option). The key is to weigh these factors to make an informed decision.

Personal Experiences: Disney World in February

Recently, I had a chance to speak with my cousin Justin about his family’s trip to Disney World in February 2023. Despite visiting during the crowded Presidents’ Day holiday, Justin, his wife Amy, and their 7-year-old niece had a truly memorable experience.

During the interview, Justin shared, “The Magic Kingdom was a big hit, especially for our niece. She was fascinated by the ‘It’s a Small World” ride and meeting her favorite princesses. At Animal Kingdom, she enjoyed ‘Kilimanjaro Safaris,’ where she was thrilled to see the animals up close in their natural habitats. As for Epcot, the ‘Frozen Ever After’ ride was the absolute highlight of her day.”

Justin added, “Amy fell in love with the ‘Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage‘ at Hollywood Studios. We also enjoyed the moderate weather in February, which was a refreshing change from the cold New Jersey winters and perfect for exploring the parks. Despite the larger crowd due to the holiday, it was a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Yet, we think next time we visit, we should go during non-holiday week.”

Reflecting on his personal favorite, Justin shared, “Walking through the countries at Epcot was an experience like no other. I absolutely loved exploring the cultural exhibits and the international cuisine.”

He concluded by saying, “We all loved our trip in February. Can’t wait to go back soon!”

His family’s Disney World trip provides a glimpse of the joy and unforgettable moments that Disney World can provide, even during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts for February

In February, weather conditions at Disney World are generally mild and pleasant, a break from Florida’s intense summer heat. This makes it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and park exploration.

February also hosts key events such as the Disney Princess Half Marathon and Presidents’ Day week. While these events can create a lively atmosphere, they also draw crowds. Be prepared for larger crowd sizes during this period, especially around Presidents’ Day when families capitalize on the school break.

Costs during February can vary, with the start and end of the month generally offering more cost-effective options compared to the mid-month holiday period. Planning your trip around these times can yield more affordable rates.

Comparing February to neighboring months like January or March, the crowd size and cost can be slightly higher due to the events and school vacation. However, the mild weather of February may be more appealing than the cooler January or the unpredictable weather in March.

In summary, if you’re considering a visit to Disney World in February, it’s essential to weigh the balance of weather, crowd sizes, costs, and events. For those who can navigate the peak times and enjoy the blend of mild weather and unique events, February can be an ideal choice. As always, it’s beneficial to speak with a Disney travel agent to discuss your options and ensure you make the most out of your Disney World trip.

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 March
• Disney World in April
• Disney World in May
• Disney World in June
• Disney World in July
• Disney World in August
• 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.