Walt Disney World has announced a new refurbishment for the Storybook Circus area of Magic Kingdom in early 2026. According to Disney, the Pete’s Silly Sideshow tent will be closed starting in early January, with no announced reopening date. The closure is likely for a refurbishment of the tent structure. Here’s what we know.
Pete’s Silly Sideshow Closing for Refurbishment
Walt Disney World has posted notices for the two meet and greets in the Pete’s Silly Sideshow tent at Magic Kingdom. Both the Daring Disney Pals and Dashing Disney Pals meet and greets will be closed starting January 5, 2026. The closure is described as “temporary,” and the characters will meet elsewhere in Storybook Circus. Here’s the announcement.
Daring Disney Pals will be temporarily unavailable beginning January 5. Donald Duck and Goofy will be greeting guests in Storybook Circus.
Dashing Disney Pals will be temporarily unavailable beginning January 5. Daisy Duck and Minnie Mouse will be greeting guests in Storybook Circus.
It is very likely that Walt Disney World has closed the location to allow for refurbishment of the tent structure. Back in October, Disney filed two permits for “general construction” on the Pete’s Silly Sideshow structure and the Big Top Souvenirs structure. The permits listed BirdAir Inc. as the general contractor. BirdAir is known for its work on tent structures around the world.
Walt Disney World has not announced a refurbishment for the Big Top Souvenirs sweets shop and gift store, but it is likely that the work will happen in phases, starting with Pete’s Silly Sideshow.
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