Walt Disney World has shared new details for guests who want an early chance to experience Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT. Before the attraction’s scheduled debut on May 26, 2026, Disney Vacation Club members and Annual Passholders will have access to preview opportunities.
For Disney World fans, this update matters because it shows how Disney is handling early access and who qualifies. If you are planning an EPCOT visit in late May, it is worth knowing the preview dates, entry rules, and membership requirements before you arrive.
Annual Passholder Preview Dates
1st Day
May 19, 2026
2nd Day
May 20, 2026
Annual Passholders will be able to preview Soarin’ Across America on May 19 and May 20, 2026. According to the details released, no advance registration or virtual queue will be required for this preview.
Instead, the attraction’s standby line will be available only to eligible Passholders on those two days. That makes the process fairly simple compared with some past preview events, which have relied on reservations or timed entry systems.
Passholders should still remember that valid park admission is required. Theme park reservations may also be needed depending on arrival time, with EPCOT reservations generally required only if entering before 2:00 p.m.
Disney Vacation Club Preview Information
Disney Vacation Club members will also receive a separate preview period for Soarin’ Across America. Disney has confirmed that members must have a current resort reservation in order to take part.
Unlike some member events, this preview does not appear to require advance registration. Disney Vacation Club has said that eligible members will receive an email with more details.
At the time of the announcement, Disney had not officially published the DVC preview date. However, one reported date being discussed is May 21, 2026. Until Disney confirms that publicly, members should treat that date as tentative and wait for the official email.
Who Is Eligible for the DVC Preview
Not every Disney Vacation Club member will qualify automatically. In addition to holding a current resort reservation, members must also be eligible for Membership Extras.
That requirement usually applies to owners with at least 150 points purchased directly from Disney, unless they qualify under older grandfathered rules. For many members, this is an important detail because it can affect access to special events, lounges, and preview opportunities.
If you are unsure of your eligibility, checking your Membership Extras status before your trip is a smart step.
Why This Preview Matters
Soarin’ Across America is arriving as a notable update for EPCOT, and previews often give Disney’s most engaged guests a chance to experience new offerings before general audiences. These preview windows can also help Disney test operations, gauge wait times, and work through guest flow before the official opening.
For Passholders and DVC members, early access can add value to an existing EPCOT visit. It also gives repeat guests a reason to make time for The Land pavilion during a busy travel period.
What Guests Should Do Next
If you are an Annual Passholder, the key step is simple. Plan for May 19 or May 20, make sure your admission is valid, and confirm whether you need an EPCOT reservation based on your arrival time.
If you are a Disney Vacation Club member, watch for an official email and confirm that your resort stay and Membership Extras eligibility are in place.
With Soarin’ Across America set to open soon, these previews offer a limited early look at one of EPCOT’s upcoming changes. For eligible guests, it is a useful chance to experience the attraction before the broader summer crowds arrive.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
