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.
- Morsmordre! Death Eaters are being summoned to Diagon Alley for the first time ever this fall at Universal Studios Florida. In past years, Death Eaters have only invaded Hogsmeade, so now they've got their sights set on stepping into the muggle world. On select nights from Sept. 1 through Nov. 2, Lord Voldemort's most loyal followers will lurk in London, duel challengers in Diagon Alley and cast unforgivable curses in Knockturn Alley. It's time to practice your Defense Against the Dark Arts skills and defend Diagon Alley, or else a flash of green light might just be the last thing you see.
- Beep, beep … parking trams are returning to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios in September! A specific date has not been shared yet. Disney paused its parking lot tram service following the parks' closure in 2020. The trams have since returned to Magic Kingdom Park and Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, so this marks the first time since 2020 that all trams will be operating.
- Last week, Disneyland announced Tiana's Palace would be opening Sept. 7, and now we've got a first look at the menu, which is inspired by the flavors of the Big Easy. Items include variations of gumbo, Cajun-spiced half chicken, a po-boy sandwich and shrimp and grits. But our favorite reveal has to be the Lily Pad and Lotus Cup ceramic set — what a froggerific souvenir and it even comes with a house-filled beignet!
- In other Disney Parks foodie news, special treats and eats were announced for the Plaza de la Familia celebration at Disney California Adventure. From Sept. 1 to Nov. 2, enjoy cuisine from cultures that celebrate Dia de los Muertos, including new chile verde chicken flautas and the return of the horchata cheesecake. Also at DCA, the most adorable Baymax Bread will debut Aug. 31, upon the official opening of San Fransoyko Square. And crossing coasts, the Plaza Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park has recently introduced new milkshakes, desserts and savory items.
- SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment has expanded its "Weather-or-Not" assurance policy to include additional weather conditions such as extreme heat. It allows guests to return to a park on another day within 12 months if extreme weather impacts their visit or flight plans for an upcoming visit. The year-round policy covers rain, lightning, wind, snow, hail and a heat index above 110 degrees. It also goes into effect if attractions are closed for 60 minutes or more or if a park closes early because of weather.
That's it for theme park news this week.
Hoppy planning!
