Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting theme park and cruise news around Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood and other theme parks and cruise lines.
Weekly Roundup of Theme Park and Cruise News
- Starting today, Feb. 6, 2026, Disney California Adventure Park will have limited-time offerings in honor of its 25th anniversary. Mickey and Minnie will meet in brand-new outfits on Buena Vista Street, and Soarin' Over California returns through July 1, 2026 (before it transitions to the brand-new Soarin' Across America). From Feb. 6 to 15, don't miss special 25th anniversary food and merch — plus, on Feb. 8 (the official anniversary date), guests who enter Disney California Adventure will receive a complimentary commemorative map, while supplies last.
- Additionally, Downtown Disney District and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa are both turning 25. As part of the celebration, Humphrey the Bear joins the character lineup during Donald's Tales of Adventure Dinner Buffet at Storytellers Cafe. Be sure to hop over to our Instagram @themeparkfrog, not only for all the 25th anniversary coverage, but for the following week, we'll be sharing our Disneyland story, along with resources to help you create your own!
- However, that's not the only party getting started! Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval kicks off Feb. 7 and will run daily through April 4, 2026. Universal Studios Florida hosts this annual event, where you can expect Cajun and international flavors, electric family-friendly entertainment (including a float-filled parade) and toadally amazing concerts from popular artists.
- Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will officially race into Universal Studios Hollywood this summer. As the park's first high-speed outdoor roller coaster, it will feature ride vehicles that can "drift" with groundbreaking 360-degree rotation technology, reaching speeds up to 72 mph. We can't wait to give this coaster a test drive!
- A lot of frociting things are coming to Disney World this year, and we've got a couple of updates on some ride upgrades and upcoming experiences. According to Disney World's calendar, Frozen Ever After will reopen Feb. 12, 2026, with brand-new Audio-Animatronics figures of Anna, Elsa and Kristoff. Starting Feb. 23, the Wildlife Express Train, Conservation Station and Affection Section will temporarily close to make way for a new "Bluey" experience, coming this summer. And don't forget — February is the last month to experience Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith before it closes March 2, and reopens this summer featuring the Muppets.
- In honor of Black History Month, Disney will offer soulful experiences at both Disneyland and Disney World throughout February. On the West Coast, catch Celebrate Gospel concerts in Downtown Disney over two weekends, Feb. 20-21 and Feb. 27-28. Be on the lookout for new displays across the resort that recognize Black leaders, artists and thinkers from the past and present. At Magic Kingdom on Feb. 9, Toya Johnson-Rushing will lead as the honorary Grand Marshal in a special parade also featuring Disney characters and lively music.
- Football and hockey and baseball — oh my! Disneyland is officially in its sporty era. The resort will welcome the Super Bowl LX Champion on Feb. 9 with a special cavalcade in Disneyland Park. Later this month, on Feb. 22, Disney California Adventure hosts Anaheim Ducks Day, filled with fun activities all day (including a chance to meet some of your favorite players). And recently announced, the Savannah Bananas will return March 26, promising shenanigans at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
- Big news regarding the future of The Walt Disney Company! Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro will step into the CEO role starting March 18, 2026. Quite popular with theme park fans in particular, D'Amaro succeeds Bob Iger, who will continue to serve on the Disney Board until his retirement at the end of the year. Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Dana Walden was also named President and Chief Creative Officer.
- Speaking of C-level execs, Royal Caribbean is expecting a new Chief Dog Officer! The adorable golden retriever puppy will join the ranks of her sisters, Rover and Sailor. Their primary duties are greeting guests, posing for photos and taking long walks on the beach (and around their respective ships). You will eventually find the unnamed pup on the new Legend of the Seas cruise ship, setting sail in July from Rome.
- Undercover Tourist is offering several deals on vacation packages, theme park tickets, hotels and even Florida Resident tickets. But don't wait! It's your last chance to jump on special 2 Days FREE ticket and vacation package offers. Find out more info about saving money on Disney World tickets here.
- Now, how about a Disney Cruise Line vacation? We've got you covered here, too! Save up to 35% off on select sailings. Plus, you'll get a FREE $100 Disney Gift Card for a limited time! This deal ends tomorrow, Feb. 7, 2026, but don't worry — Undercover Tourist offers exclusive savings for Disney Cruise Line sailings year-round.
That's a wrap on the latest theme park and cruise news.
Hoppy planning!
