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.
Here are this week’s theme park highlights:
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A next-generation trackless ride is set to open soon inside Disney California Adventure. Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters, which replaces Luigi's Flying Tires in Cars Land, uses an automated trackless system that will allow ride vehicles to cross paths while spinning and "dancing." The Rollickin' Roadsters ride will be the first time Disney has used this trackless system in the U.S.- You muggles won't want to miss this! Entertainment Weekly got an exclusive, first look at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter coming to Universal Studios Hollywood.
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Star Wars-inspired Alex and Ani bangles are headed to the parks in rafaelian gold or rafaelian silver finishes and online starting Feb. 15.- A new Lion Guard Adventure has begun at Disney's Animal Kingdom, wherein young explorers can head out in search of five Lion Guard characters. Once you find them all, head out to Rafiki's Planet Watch, and a cast member will induct you into the guard.
- Gladys Knight and Smash Mouth are kicking off the first of several weekends at SeaWorld Orlando's Bands, Brew & BBQ, which runs through March 6.
- For a limited time, same-day dining reservations are coming to Magic Kingdom's newest restaurant, Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen.
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Peyton Manning celebrated his team's Super Bowl win by heading to the Happiest Place on Earth - Disneyland!- Disney's "Frozen" will head to Broadway in spring 2018. Casting, dates and venue have not been revealed, but Alex Timbers will direct and Jennifer Lee will work on the book for the musical.
- Ahead of that, an all-new, original "Frozen" holiday special will air in 2017. Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel and Josh Gad will reprise their roles for televised special.
- Now is the time to purchase your Orlando theme park tickets. The Universal Orlando Resort raised ticket prices earlier this week, but we will continue to hold our inventory for a limited time!
That’s it for the theme park news this week. Have a great weekend!
Hoppy planning!
If you’re thinking about a trip to Disney World, make sure to check out the other news, tips and information we post to the blog throughout the week. If you’re ready to plan your trip, we recommend you start with our Orlando Planning Guide.
