Pirate and Child
  • On Dec 29, 2025
    Stephen from TN Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We have a trip planned to WDW starting January 4,2026. I see nothing online about a refurbishment or closure of Pirates of the Caribbean. However, it has been removed from lightening lanes during the day(s) of our trip. Will it be closed?

    Ahoy Stephen!

    Thanks for sailing by planDisney with your question. Pirates of the Caribbean is one of my all-time favorite attractions, so I can understand why you wouldn't want to miss it during your trip. Side note, I'm quite jealous that you're arriving today, as my family just returned from our own magical visit late last night. I remember sighing and saying, "Someone is singing 'Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life for Me)' right now" as we drove north on I-95 yesterday afternoon. I'm already planning a return visit!

    I double-checked the Hours & Events Calendar and confirmed there aren't any scheduled refurbishments for this Magic Kingdom Park classic through the end of January 2026. Keep in mind that temporary closures can occur from time to time in the event of mayhem, marauding, or swashbuckling, as pirates are prone to do. But I'm hopeful that you'll be able to enjoy a few sailings on this beloved attraction.

    If you are hoping to experience it via the Lightning Lane entrance, you'll need to purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass. This will give you the option to purchase and pre-select return times for up to 3 attractions in Magic Kingdom in advance (subject to availability and tier restrictions), and then book additional return times, one at a time, as you redeem through the rest of the day (again, subject to availability). I did a quick scan and found a number of open time slots through the end of the week. While you might not be able to select your first choice return window, you may have the option to modify your return time, same-day, within the My Disney Experience app. Guest plans change all the time, so keep refreshing the app to see if you can find any treasure. Fortune favors the bold, savvy?

    Lightning Lane Multi Pass can only be used once per included attraction, but if you're anything like me and want to set sail a few times, I'd recommend hopping in the standby line early in the day, around popular meal times, or after fireworks, as crowds begin to exit the park. Fireworks can also be a great time to snag lower waits, but Happily Ever After is a must-not-miss experience for my family, so I'd prioritize at least one viewing during your Magic Kingdom visit.

    I hope this helped, Stephen. If we can answer any additional questions during your vacation, please don't hesitate to come back and let us know. You can also chat with a member of the Guest Experience Team, stationed around the parks (you'll spot them set up under blue umbrellas). 

    Signing off before the tide turns,
    Amy
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Meet the Panelist: Amy, North Carolina

Hi, I'm Amy- a proud wife, mom, and Disney adult. I'm a natural planner with a flair for the creative, always looking for ways to add a little magical sparkle to our family's day-to-day happenings and once-in-a lifetime moments. You'll find me and my crew visiting the parks from rope drop to close and packing in as much magic as possible to each day of our Walt Disney World Resort vacation. From dining to photo spots and all the details in between, you've got a friend in me! Learn More About Amy

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