***A group of young girls all eating Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bars***

If you’re thinking about a summer trip to Walt Disney World with kids, you may have heard the phrase “Disney’s Cool Kids Summer.” While it isn’t a formal ticketed event like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary or Jollywood Nights, it is Disney’s seasonal approach to making hot summer days more comfortable, more fun, and more kid-friendly across the parks.

Here’s what families can expect — and how to make the most of it.

❄️ What Is “Cool Kids Summer”?

Cool Kids Summer is Disney’s collection of summer-only experiences, cooling options, entertainment, and activities designed to help families beat the heat while still enjoying the magic.

Instead of one single event, think of it as a park-wide summer vibe that shows up in different ways at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.

💦 Extra Ways to Stay Cool

During the summer months, Disney adds more opportunities for kids (and adults!) to cool off throughout the parks, including:

Splash zones and water play areas in select parks
Misting fans and shaded rest zones in high-traffic areas
More indoor, air-conditioned attractions promoted as “must-dos” for midday breaks
Cooling stations and shaded seating near popular rides

This makes it much easier to enjoy a full park day — even in July or August.

🎉 Special Summer Entertainment

Cool Kids Summer often includes fun, seasonal entertainment such as:

Extra character appearances in relaxed settings
Dance parties or pop-up performances geared toward kids
Interactive street entertainment
Limited-time photo opportunities with summer backdrops

These moments give families something fun to do between rides without standing in long lines.

***Goofy having a dance party with a group of children***

🍦 Seasonal Treats & Snacks

One of the best parts of summer at Disney is the special food and drinks, including:

Frozen lemonades
Themed ice creams and popsicles
Slushies and specialty drinks
Limited-time snacks inspired by popular Disney movies

Many of these treats are designed specifically to help guests cool down — and they’re adorable for photos, too.

🌅 Smart Park Strategy for Cool Kids Summer

If you’re visiting during this season, here’s how to make the most of it:

Go early. Rope drop is your best friend in summer.
Take a midday break. Return to your hotel to swim or rest.
Use indoor rides in the afternoon. Think Pirates, Haunted Mansion, Spaceship Earth, or Frozen Ever After.
Save time for fireworks and nighttime fun. The parks feel much more comfortable after sunset.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Cool Kids Summer Good for Families?

Yes — especially if your kids love:

Water play
Characters
Dancing and music
Sweet treats
Longer park hours

It’s a great time to visit if you embrace the slower pace, build in breaks, and lean into Disney’s summer extras instead of fighting the heat.

***A family at the Art of Animation Resort pool playing in the water together***

✈️ We’re Here to Help You Make the Most of your cool kids Summer

Whether you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked summer getaway or looking for ways to make the most of a Disney trip during the hottest months of the year, Cool Kids Summer is a fantastic time to visit when you plan with intention.

At Let’s Talk Travel, we love helping families build summer itineraries that balance fun, relaxation, and smart timing — so you can make memories without the stress.

Ready to start planning? Contact us today!

☀️ Disney’s Cool Kids Summer: What It Is and Why Your Family Will Love It