Planning a Walt Disney World trip for late spring or summer 2026? This episode is your complete guide to Cool Kids' Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World (May 26 – September 8).

We break down the must-see new shows, real-world planning tips, Bluey accessibility advice, ride updates, and the best current hotel and ticket deals for both Florida residents and everyone else.

• Jessie's Roundup at Magic Kingdom
• Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Hollywood Studios
• GoofyCore at EPCOT
• Bluey's Wild World at Animal Kingdom (with practical tips)

Plus Big Thunder Mountain reopening, Muppets Rock 'n' Roller Coaster news, heat-beating strategies, and money-saving deals.

This episode was recorded live at Epcot Center at 9:06 AM on the Wednesday before Easter. The park was already packed and way times were at 105 minutes. Five minutes after park open to regular guests. I sat down at my favorite bench and thought about how lucky I was to be sitting on a bench at Epcot in the 75° sun, looking at a statue of Walt Disney. My friend and I were able to get on six rides that day and had one of our best days in the park want to hear how tune in and listen we didn't buy lightning lane. We didn't stand in a line for more than 30 minutes and we just made the best of a great day in a very, very crowded Park.

Take care, brush your hair

Found an old photo the other day of the family at Walt Disney World celebrating my aunt's 60th birthday. I wasn't on that trip myself, but seeing everyone together—smiles, park energy, all in one spot—hit hard years later. With my aunt and some others gone now, it brought back what it represented: getting a scattered family reunited for something special, the meals and rides that made it last, and how Disney became more than just a vacation spot—it turned into a place where life got celebrated and connections stuck around even after people pass.

I talk about that here: why the parks feel like home base for families like ours, where memories build up, people reconnect, and you can still sense the ones who aren't here anymore. Got the usual dad rants and laughs about how big family trips are always a chaotic mess in the good way, plus real thoughts on why Disney hits deep for so many of us who listen.

Quick St. Patrick's Day rundown at the end since it's happening right now (Friday, March 13 kickoff):

• On-property: Raglan Road at Disney Springs is the spot with The Mighty Festival (March 13–17)—live Irish bands from Ireland, dancers, food/drinks, outdoor bars, Celtic face painting. No park ticket needed, just head to Disney Springs. Hours vary (11am-midnight today, 10am-midnight most days); reservations smart for March 13–16, $20 cover 18+ on March 17 (first-come, first-served, no res that day). It's the authentic, lively one if you're nearby.