Hi Leigh!
Welcome back to planDisney! And thanks for making us a go-to resource for your Disney vacation planning questions!
I’m happy to report that
Disney After Hours is a separately ticketed event, so it should not activate your date-based tickets. I’ve heard nothing but incredible things about the After Hours events, so if you’re hoping for more park time with fewer crowds, that would be a great addition to your trip!
Tickets are already on sale for the currently scheduled events, so I recommend purchasing them as soon as you finalize your plans. That way, you ensure you get to enjoy the event since tickets are limited.
As you plan your trip, something to be on the lookout for is when
Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival will be happening. Last year, the dates were announced in December, so we may have that information soon. If the dates are similar to this year’s festival, you might get to catch the tail end of it! That might change how you schedule your park days.
I always love how bright and cheery Epcot is at that time of year! Seeing the impressive topiaries, visiting the butterfly house, and completing the fun scavenger hunt are some of our favorite things to do during that festival. I'd keep an eye on the
Disney Parks Blog for any announcements regarding the offerings during 2026’s Flower & Garden Festival.
I hope that helps! If you have any other questions, feel free to come back and visit us!
Jenn J.