Theme Park Scope

Yes, you read that correctly. Inflatable donkey tossing is coming to Walt Disney World…and you can watch it for free.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when ESPN celebrates the world’s strangest sports, the answer is ESPN8: The Ocho — and it’s returning to Disney World this week with a lineup that’s every bit as bizarre as you’d expect.

From inflatable donkey tossing and roofball to slippery stairs and housekeeping competitions, one of the most unique events of the year is once again taking over ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, and the best part is that admission and parking are completely free for guests.

ESPN8: The Ocho returns to Walt Disney World on Friday, August 7, as part of the network’s 10th anniversary celebration.

The one-day event brings 10 live competitions to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, with many of the events also airing across ESPN platforms throughout the weekend.

Guests don’t need a ticket or advance registration to attend. Disney has confirmed that both admission and parking are complimentary, making this one of the few completely free events available at Walt Disney World. Resort guests can also travel to the complex using the Minnie Van service through the Lyft app.

Here’s What’s Happening

The 2026 lineup features a mix of returning fan favorites and brand-new competitions.

New for 2026

• Donk Toss — Competitors attempt to toss an inflatable donkey onto a target, testing both distance and accuracy.
• Roofball U.S. Open — Players throw a ball onto a rooftop and score points based on where it lands.
• Housekeeping Games — Inspired by hotel housekeeping teams, this competition challenges participants in speed, precision, and teamwork.

Returning Favorites

Fans can also watch:

• Big League Wiffle Ball World Series
• Turf Wars Adult Kickball
• Combat Archery All Stars
• USA Dodgeball
• Popdarts Championship
• Pop-A-Shot National Championship
• Slippery Stairs: Primetime Chaos Tour

The event runs from 10 AM until 9 PM at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, giving guests a full day of wonderfully weird competition.

The fun isn’t limited to the competition arenas.

Disney says guests can explore Ocho Fan Zones throughout the complex featuring limited-edition merchandise, themed photo opportunities, athlete appearances, giveaways, and interactive experiences where visitors can try some of the featured games themselves.

Why Is It Called “The Ocho”?

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because ESPN8: The Ocho was inspired by the fictional television network from the 2004 comedy “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story.”

What started as a joke has since grown into an annual ESPN tradition celebrating quirky and unconventional sports from around the world. This year’s event marks the 10th anniversary of The Ocho, making the 2026 celebration even bigger than previous years.

Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just want to witness people tossing inflatable donkeys and competing in roofball, ESPN8: The Ocho offers one of the most unique (and completely free) experiences happening at Walt Disney World this week.

For more Walt Disney World news, special events, entertainment updates, and the latest theme park happenings, keep checking back with Theme Park Scope.