If you are planning to check out Olaf Draws when The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, there is an important detail you need to know before you go.
Olaf Draws will operate with a virtual queue, as needed, but it works differently from what most Disney World guests are used to.
You Have to Sign Up in Person
Unlike the typical virtual queue system where guests can join through the My Disney Experience app at a set time, the Olaf Draws queue requires guests to physically go to the Olaf Draws location inside The Magic of Disney Animation to sign up in person. You cannot do it remotely from your phone while standing in another part of the park. It works almost like checking in at a restaurant. Guests will receive a text message when it’s their time to get to enjoy the show, that way they can enjoy other attractions and such while waiting.
What This Means for Your Visit
The bottom line is simple: the earlier you get to the park and make your way to The Magic of Disney Animation, the better your chances of securing a spot. Since you have to be there in person to join the queue, guests who arrive at park opening and head straight to Animation Courtyard will have a significant advantage over those who show up later in the day.
It is also worth noting that this information came from media preview coverage ahead of the grand opening, so it is possible Disney could adjust the process before or after the “official” opening on September 14. We will keep an eye on any updates and let you know if anything changes!
What Is Olaf Draws?
For those who have not yet heard about it, Olaf Draws is a brand new drawing experience inside The Magic of Disney Animation, inspired by the classic Animation Academy that many Disney fans know and love. The experience is hosted by a brand new Audio Animatronic Olaf and features pre recorded segments with real Disney animators and directors guiding guests through drawing different characters. Past previews have included sessions on how to draw Mickey Mouse, Stitch, and the Genie with legendary animator Eric Goldberg.
Multiple versions of the show exist with different artists and characters, so there is plenty of reason to keep coming back!
If Olaf Draws is on your must do list, here is a quick tip summary for when you visit: get to Hollywood Studios early, head to The Magic of Disney Animation first thing, and sign up for your spot in person at the venue. Do not count on being able to grab a queue from the app while you are having breakfast across the park.
The Magic of Disney Animation officially opens September 14, 2026. Have you already had a chance to visit during the soft opening? Let us know in the comments!
You May Also Enjoy: Review: Olaf Draws at The Magic of Disney Animation
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