What’s Coming to Frozen Ever After in 2026: Upgrades, Animatronics & More

Disney has officially announced that Frozen Ever After, the popular dark boat-ride in EPCOT’s Norway pavilion, will receive significant upgrades and enhancements in 2026. These changes aim to modernize the experience, improve reliability, and bring new technology used in the latest World of Frozen attractions into the ride you know and love. Here’s what to expect — and how to plan your visit around the updates.

Key Upgrades & What’s Changing

1. Enhanced Audio-Animatronics

One of the major updates is to the audio-animatronic figures, which will be given refreshed technology similar to what’s already used in newer Frozen attractions globally. Disney is upgrading the facial mapping, movements, and realism of Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and other beloved characters to make their expressions smoother and more lifelike.

2. Leaning Into World of Frozen Innovations

These enhancements are inspired by the tech in World of Frozen lands at Hong Kong, Tokyo, and forthcoming parks. Disney plans to bring that same level of visual fidelity and immersion into the EPCOT version. A formal announcement has confirmed the ride in the Norway Pavilion will get upgrades using the same systems being used in newer World of Frozen attractions.

3. Refreshed Scenes & Storytelling Tweaks

While Disney hasn’t released full details yet, fans expect refreshed scenes — possibly new lighting, updated set pieces, or added effects to deepen immersion. These tweaks may smooth transitions, update projection mapping, or enhance key musical moments.

4. Temporary Downtime & Refurbishment Window

To carry out all these enhancements, Frozen Ever After will close for a period in 2026. Disney typically schedules refurbishments during slower park times, so expect the ride to be unavailable during that window. Keep an eye on official refurbishment calendars for exact dates.

What This Means for Your EPCOT Visit

• Ride Early, If Possible — Before the refurbishment begins, try to ride Frozen Ever After early in the day to avoid downtime surprises.

• Stay Flexible — If it’s closed during your trip, use the time to enjoy other Norway Pavilion attractions, cultural details, or nearby World Showcase pavilions.

• Expect a Better Experience — When the ride reopens, the upgrades should improve reliability (fewer breakdowns) and deepen emotional connection with the story.

• Watch for Announcements — Disney typically releases detailed info (dates, concept art) months ahead of refurbishments. Bookmark and monitor Disney’s official channels.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 refurbishment of Frozen Ever After is more than cosmetic — it’s a reimagining designed to bring state-of-the-art storytelling, smoother ride experiences, and next-level animatronic technology to EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion. For fans of Frozen, this promises to make the ride feel fresh, more magical, and more emotionally immersive than ever before.

✨ Want help planning your EPCOT day around this update? Let Castle Vacations map out the perfect itinerary for your trip. Request a free vacation quote here  and we’ll build it with your favorites in mind.