Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting theme park news around the Walt Disney World Resort, the Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and other theme parks.
- The iconic 1900 Park Fare reopens April 10 at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa! This timeless restaurant will sport a newly refurbished dining room and other magical additions — including a new batch of Disney pals, such as Aladdin in his Prince Ali look, Cinderella, Mirabel and Tiana in her new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure outfit. Guests can enjoy an enchanting buffet for breakfast and dinner, brand-new artwork throughout the eatery and returning fixtures, including Big Bertha — an antique organ that has called the resort home since 1988. Reservations open March 5. Check out our character dining guide for more info!
- It’s a party at SeaWorld Orlando in more ways than one! In addition to the vibrant festivities of Mardi Gras, taking place Feb. 8-11, 13 and 15-18, savor an ocean of flavors during SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival! From now until May 19 every Thursday to Sunday, everyone from foodies to families has the opportunity to indulge in over 200 food and drink options inspired by flavors from all over the world. To accompany these delicious delights, Bayside Stadium will host a plethora of impressive musical acts — including Hanson, Gloria Gaynor, Ludacris and Hoobastank. Sounds like a swimmingly good time!
- Join the PEANUTS crew for some comical fun at Knott’s Berry Farm on Charlie Brown Day! On Feb. 11, visit the park dressed in your yellow and zig zag striped best for a group photo with the man of the hour himself. Attendees will also receive a free Charlie Brown Day button (while supplies last)! These special keepsakes are available at the main gate. It hoppens to coincide with the PEANUTS Celebration, which is running until Feb. 25.
- Splashin' news at Walt Disney World Resort! Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park officially reopens March 17, following its routine winter refurbishment. Get those flippers ready to dive into sun-soaked fun and enjoy some refreshing treats, such as the Pineapple Upside Down Cone at Happy Landings Ice Cream or the Kungaloosh Kooler cocktail, while you’re at it!
- The ocean is calling once again! Disney recently announced frogciting news about the upcoming Disney film “Moana 2” – which is now slated for a Nov. 27 nationwide theatrical release. This sequel will take audiences on a new voyage across dangerous waters — alongside Moana, Maui and a brand-new band of characters. After receiving a call from her ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania for an unexpected adventure. A live-action film based off of the original "Moana" film, featuring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Maui, will also hit theaters June 27, 2025. In the meantime, you can meet Moana and learn more about the water cycle in Journey of Water at EPCOT.
- Unleash a world of flavor on your taste buds at the annual Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival! This year, try an array of fascinating foods and drinks in between thrilling rides and entertainment at the park. A special concert lineup has also been partially announced! So far, it includes performances from renowned artists, such as the Goo Goo Dolls, Starship ft. Mickey Thomas, Sister Hazel, Owl City, Gavin DeGraw, Hoobastank and Andy Grammer.
- There’s "So Much More to Sea" during SeaWorld’s 60th anniversary celebration (of the same name) this year. Beginning officially March 21, guests will be able to dive deeper and explore the extensive history, wildlife and conservation efforts of SeaWorld. Enjoy all-new thrilling rides and experiences at SeaWorld parks across the nation, including the highly-anticipated opening of Penguin Trek at SeaWorld Orlando in Spring 2024. Catapult Falls at SeaWorld San Antonio and an animal exhibit — Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience — at SeaWorld San Diego, will also wow guests this year. In addition, impressive new shows at SeaWorld Orlando and SeaWorld San Antonio, as well as a live performance character show: Shamu and Crew - 'Together Again' at SeaWorld San Diego, will immerse guests even further into the fascinating world of oceanic life. Debuting this summer, a new 60th Anniversary celebration parade will have you tapping your flippers to the beat. Special limited-edition food, beverages and collectibles will also be available throughout the year. Sea more in our SeaWorld Orlando Events guide.
That's it for theme park news this week.
Hoppy planning!