If there’s one thing fans often agree on, it’s that Disney’s Animal Kingdom closes far too early. While Magic Kingdom dazzles with fireworks until late at night and EPCOT keeps its gates open for nighttime shows, Animal Kingdom usually shuts down just as the sun is setting. That means no evening strolls through Pandora’s glowing bioluminescent pathways for most guests, and it leaves many wishing the park had more nighttime hours on the calendar.But, good news is finally here—at least for a select group of visitors. Disney Vacation Club has confirmed that Animal Kingdom will once again host Moonlight Magic, giving DVC members a rare chance to enjoy the park after hours.Credit: DisneyWhy Fans Miss Animal Kingdom at NightAnimal Kingdom at night is an entirely different experience. Pandora lights up with glowing flora, Expedition Everest becomes even more thrilling in the dark, and Kilimanjaro Safaris offers an atmosphere that feels far more adventurous under the evening sky. When Disney trims the hours short, guests lose that magic, and the park has gained a reputation for being the “daytime park.”That’s why announcements like this matter so much. Even if the events are limited to DVC members, it shows that Disney still recognizes the special charm Animal Kingdom holds after dark.Moonlight Magic ReturnsDisney Vacation Club has officially added Moonlight Magic dates for Animal Kingdom in late 2025: October 29, November 18, and December 15. Then, in 2026, the event will be back again, kicking off the new year on January 20.Moonlight Magic isn’t brand new—it has been hosted at Animal Kingdom before—but it’s always a big deal when it’s added back to the calendar. The event allows eligible DVC members to stay in the park after it closes to regular guests, giving them access to shorter wait times, rare character meet-and-greets, special entertainment, and complimentary treats.Credit: DVCFan.comWho Gets In?Of course, there’s a catch. Not everyone can attend. These events are exclusive to DVC members who qualify under Disney’s Membership Extras program. That means only those who purchased directly from Disney with at least 150 Vacation Points can register.Even then, space is limited. Registration opens in phases—first for members with qualifying resort reservations, and then for general registration a week later. Members can bring up to four guests or the number of people listed on their resort reservation.Why This MattersWhile it’s only a handful of dates and only for a small group of fans, the return of nighttime hours at Animal Kingdom is still significant. It gives a glimpse into what many hope could one day be a more regular offering: evening hours for all guests. Disney has invested in technology, lighting, and experiences that are designed to shine brightest after dark. Yet most guests don’t get to see them.For now, DVC members will be the lucky few who get to walk beneath the glowing trees of Pandora long after the park “closes.” And for everyone else, the news sparks hope that maybe one day Disney will bring more nighttime opportunities back to this unique park.Credit: DisneyFinal ThoughtsAnimal Kingdom deserves its time in the spotlight—or moonlight, in this case. Even if it’s only a few special nights, fans will take it. These Moonlight Magic events remind us just how breathtaking the park can be after dark. For the DVC members lucky enough to snag a spot, it’s going to be an unforgettable experience.The post Nighttime Hours Finally Returning To Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 2026 for Select Guests appeared first on Inside the Magic.