If you’re planning your Orlando trip this summer, get ready—you’re about to meet some adorable new robotic friends and dive into fresh seasonal fun across Walt Disney World! Starting July 16, interactive BDX Droids are making their debut at Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios. Think of them as duckling-style Star Wars companions; they toddle around the land seven times daily (10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 3, 4, 5 & 6 PM through August 30) and are built to handle Florida’s heat and humidity without skipping a beat. If you’re a Star Wars fan—or just love cute robots—be sure to add one of their appearances to your touring plan!
But that’s not all—Disney is rolling out its “Cool Kid Summer” celebration at EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Magic Kingdom through September 1. That means cool, air-conditioned dance parties with DJ-hosted raves featuring beloved characters (Goofy in EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall, Stitch in Tomorrowland, Phineas & Ferb roaming around), plus hands-on activities like Wilderness Explorer badges at Animal Kingdom. It’s a perfect way to stay cool, have fun, and avoid the afternoon heat.
Here’s a snapshot of what awaits your family:
- BDX Droid encounters: Interactive, weather-adapted droids roaming Galaxy’s Edge—great for Star Wars fans!
- EPCOT “GoofyCore” party: Indoor DJ event with dance, crafts, and surprise meet‑and‑greets in CommuniCore Hall.
- Magic Kingdom’s circus vibes: Air-conditioned Storybook Circus turned into a fun dance-floor with Pluto and stilt walkers.
- Animal Kingdom’s Explorer Badge quest: Collect outdoorsy Wilderness Explorer badges, learn about pollinators, and craft with eco‑themes.
- Hollywood Studios surprises: Animation Courtyard hosts magician-craft activities and Disney Junior characters at cooling DJ raves.
Why this matters for families:
Florida’s summer heat and afternoon storms are real—and these events are designed to help you beat both in style. By joining indoor dance parties and structured activities, you’ll keep kids entertained, refreshed, and out of the sun mid‑day. Especially during park peak hours, this is a clever way to re-energize everyone (and maybe sneak in a cool snack break, too!).
Planning Tips:
- Block your day around 12–3 PM with indoor events or shows to dodge the heat.
- Prep the tech by downloading your My Disney Experience or park app to check live droid encounter schedules and event times.
- Stay hydrated & alert, but also seize these shade-filled plans as prime selfie opportunities—and keep the little ones excited.
- Add these highlights to your touring plan early; small crowds inside can mean big photo ops.
If your itinerary includes a day at Hollywood Studios and EPCOT or stops across multiple parks, you’re set up for a memorable, cool, and character-packed summer Orlando visit.