The highly anticipated Fortnite v39.20 update drops today, bringing the legendary South Park collaboration to Chapter 7 Season 1. Players are eager to control The Stick of Truth and unlock iconic characters from the beloved animated series. Here’s everything you need to know about server downtime and what’s arriving on the island.
Table of Contents
Fortnite Update Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Update Version | v39.20 |
| Release Date | January 9, 2026 |
| Downtime Start | 4:00 AM ET |
| Servers Live | 6:00 AM ET (approx) |
| Expected Duration | 2 hours |
| Major Feature | South Park Collaboration |
When Will Servers Go Live?
Matchmaking begins at 4:00 AM Eastern Time, with servers expected back online by 6:00 AM Eastern Time, giving players a two-hour maintenance window. Epic Games typically completes updates within this timeframe, though unexpected issues may extend downtime slightly.
Regional Downtime Breakdown:
- PST: 1:00 AM – 3:00 AM
- GMT: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- IST: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- AEST: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Remember, you won’t be able to log in during maintenance, so wrap up any ongoing matches before 4:00 AM ET to avoid disconnection.
South Park Takes Over Fortnite
This update’s headliner is the South Park crossover featuring five legendary characters: Stan, Kyle, Cartman, Kenny, and Butters. Each character comes as a purchasable outfit with unique animations that capture the show’s irreverent humor.
The Stick of Truth debuts as a powerful mythic weapon allowing players to manipulate storm mechanics, creating tactical advantages during heated endgame situations. Based on leaked footage, this item functions similarly to Thor’s Mjölnir, delivering devastating storm-based attacks.
Epic introduces a limited-time Mini-Pass containing exclusive South Park rewards, running alongside the main Battle Pass. Some cosmetics will be available in the Item Shop, while premium Mini-Pass holders gain access to special items unavailable elsewhere.
A new Quints mode joins the playlist rotation, letting five-player squads compete until February 5, 2026. This experimental mode could become permanent if community response is enthusiastic enough.
Revolutionary In-Island Transactions Feature
Starting today, players can purchase custom cosmetics directly within Creator-made islands using V-Bucks. This groundbreaking feature empowers creators to monetize their work while offering players exclusive items unavailable in the standard Item Shop.
You can buy hats, scarves, decorations, and other non-traditional cosmetics—though Epic restricts sales of outfits, emotes, and vehicles to prevent ecosystem disruption. Learn more about Fortnite Creator economy and how to support your favorite map makers.
Additional Content & Changes
Three new Bonus Pages unlock in the Chapter 7 Season 1 Battle Pass, featuring Super Styles for Kingston, Dark Voyager, and remixed OG Season 7 skins like Lt. Winter. Check our comprehensive Battle Pass guide to maximize your progression.
Weekly quests refresh with potential South Park-themed challenges that advance the Pacific Break storyline while rewarding XP for character unlocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play during the v39.20 downtime?
No, all matchmaking and logins are disabled during maintenance from 4:00-6:00 AM ET today.
Will Winterfest items remain after the update?
No, holiday-themed content like Snowball Launchers and presents vault after v39.20 goes live, so claim rewards now.
