Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting theme park news around Universal Orlando, the Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland Resort, other theme parks and more.
Weekly Roundup of Theme Park News
- Bibbidi, bobbidi, boo! Disney has announced Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will receive an extra sprinkle of pixie dust in early October 2025 with new enhancements, including simplified packages and special visits from The Fairy Godmother. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a paid experience designed for children ages 3 to 12, offering various hair and makeup services that transform them into royalty. While we still don't know the exact details about the new package options or character experience, these changes are coming to both the Disneyland and Disney World locations.
- Do you remember ... ? As one of our favorite traditions that Disney World has introduced within the past few years, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will feature "September" all day long on Sept. 21, 2025. If you have yet to experience this song selection while saving the galaxy, it makes for the perfect day to recover the Cosmic Generator!
- When it comes to Halloween Horror Nights (HHN), the word "cute" probably doesn't come to mind — perhaps not until now. Universal Studios Japan's HHN icon HamiKuma has made his Hollywood debut! You can now meet the zombie bear and grab a sweet treat inspired by him during daytime hours and Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood. While the creepy cutie is not making any appearances at HHN in Orlando, you can find HamiKuma merchandise at Five & Dime (as well as Animation Studio Store in Hollywood).
- Congratulations to Universal Orlando Resort! Universal Epic Universe and Universal Volcano Bay won a combined total of five 2025 Golden Ticket Awards. (Think the Emmys or Oscars for the theme park industry!) The accolades include Best New Roller Coaster (Stardust Racers), Best New Attraction Installation (Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry), Best Dark Ride (Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment), Best New Theme Concept (Dark Universe) and Best Water Park (Volcano Bay).
- The Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando has completed a multi-year transformation, including newly renovated guest rooms and suites. Inspired by the colors of a California sunset, the new room design features blues, oranges and ambers to create a relaxing environment, where you can unwind and listen to music.
- The Disney Adventure will now set sail on its maiden voyage starting March 10, 2026 (previously scheduled for Dec. 15, 2025). The Singapore-based ship will embark on 3- and 4-night cruises for its inaugural season, featuring "Magic at Sea" experiences without traditional port calls. For more ship highlights, hop over to our Disney Adventure guide.
That's a wrap on the latest theme park news.
Hoppy planning!
