An upcoming Walt Disney World vacation could come with an unexpected scheduling surprise, especially for guests planning to spend their mornings at EPCOT.
Disney World has confirmed that the popular theme park will operate on a shortened schedule during several days in January 2027.
While EPCOT won’t close completely, visitors will have less time to enjoy the park on three specific dates.
And for guests who prefer arriving before opening to get a head start on popular attractions, the adjustment is worth knowing about before their vacation begins.
Disney World Confirms Three Days of Reduced Operating Hours
EPCOT will open one hour later than usual on January 7, January 9, and January 10, 2027.
Instead of its regular 9 a.m. opening, the park will welcome general admission guests at 10 a.m.
Disney has not announced an earlier closing time for these dates. EPCOT will continue operating until 9 p.m., meaning visitors will have 11 hours inside the park rather than the usual 12.
The changes are connected to the 2027 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which takes place January 6 through January 10.
During the annual event, runners participate in several races throughout Disney World property.
Three of those races will affect EPCOT’s morning operating schedule.
On January 7, the 5K begins at 4:30 a.m. The Half Marathon follows on January 9 at 5 a.m., while the full Marathon begins January 10 at 4:30 a.m.
Because these races involve EPCOT, Disney needs to allow time for runners to complete the relevant portions of their routes before regular park operations begin.
Early Theme Park Entry Is Also Moving Back
The changes won’t just affect guests purchasing regular admission.
Visitors staying at eligible Disney Resort hotels will also experience a later start to their mornings.
Disney normally offers Early Theme Park Entry at EPCOT beginning at 8:30 a.m.
On the three affected dates, however, that benefit won’t begin until 9:30 a.m.
Eligible guests will still receive 30 minutes of early access before the park opens to everyone else.
For families hoping to experience popular attractions before the crowds build, that change could require a different morning strategy.
Guests who want the usual opening schedule can consider January 6, January 8, or January 11, when EPCOT is currently scheduled to open at 9 a.m.
Marathon weekend may also bring temporary road restrictions and transportation adjustments around Walt Disney World.
Guests should allow extra travel time and review the park’s operating calendar before arriving.
Although the changes are temporary, they serve as an important reminder that Disney World’s operating hours aren’t always the same from one day to the next.
