Disney Jollywood Nights is adding some fresh surprises for its 2026 return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Disney has revealed two new experiences for this year’s after hours holiday event: a brand new lounge in Animation Courtyard and first time meet and greets with a pair of Monsters, Inc. characters fans rarely get to see.
New Checkin’ It Twice Lounge
The biggest addition this year is the Checkin’ It Twice Lounge in Animation Courtyard. Designed as a stylish spot to take a break during the event, the lounge will offer specialty beverages, a live DJ and entertainment throughout the night.
With Jollywood Nights packed with shows, characters and attractions, having a dedicated place to sit down, grab a drink and enjoy the atmosphere should be a welcome addition, especially later in the evening.
Disney hasn’t released the lounge menu yet. Those details will come with the Disney Jollywood Nights Foodie Guide, and we’ll share it as soon as it’s out.
Monsters, Inc. Characters Meet Guests for the First Time
Mike Wazowski is back at Pixar Plaza, and this year he’s bringing some coworkers. For the first time at Jollywood Nights, guests can also meet George Sanderson and Needleman from Monsters, Inc.
George is the unlucky scarer famous for the “2319” incident, when a stray child’s sock sent the Child Detection Agency rushing in and left him freshly shaved. Needleman is one of the Monsters, Inc. employees who works the door shredder. Neither character appears often at Walt Disney World, which should make these meet and greets a big draw for Pixar fans and character collectors.
The timing is fitting too. Monstropolis, the new Monsters, Inc. land, is set to open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2027, so these appearances are a fun preview of the monsters moving in. Get a taste of what’s coming in our look at Monstropolis dining.
Planning Your Jollywood Nights Visit
Disney Jollywood Nights is a separately ticketed event on select nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Tickets are available on Disney’s Jollywood Nights page.
For more from Hollywood Studios this season, see our Hollywood Studios holiday guide and our complete Disney World Christmas 2026 guide.
Will you be stopping by the Checkin’ It Twice Lounge, or heading straight to meet George and Needleman?
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