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.
- Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort is ushering in exciting changes this year! In addition to upcoming construction plans, such as the establishment of Din-Tai Fung and Porto’s Bakery at a later date, Disney recently revealed a first look at the new Parkside Market area coming in 2024. Earl of Sandwich, which is serving up sandwiches from a pop-up location, will be moved into a two-story location in the Esplanade area of Downtown Disney. Paseo and Centrico, Michel-star caliber Mexican dining coming soon, will have a quick-service component known as Tiendita. After a filling meal, guests can hop on over to the recently redesigned Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage and lawn area for catchy tunes and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Put a spooky pep in your step with the all-new runDisney event at Disneyland Resort! Debuting in September 2024, the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend combines the festivities of Halloween Time at Disneyland with good old-fashioned runDisney fun. The race themes have been revealed as Chip 'n' Dale in costumes (5K), the Hitchhiking Ghosts from the Haunted Mansion (10K), Minnie, Daisy and Clarabelle as the Sanderson sisters (Half Marathon) and Nightmare Before Christmas (Chills & Thrills Challenge). Along with yoga and kids' races, the event is a perfect addition to the fall season. The race weekend takes place from Sept. 5 to 8, while registration opens Feb. 13.
- During February, both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort honor Black culture through captivating cuisines and diverse entertainment. Enjoy these enriching Black History Month offerings across both coasts! At Disneyland, try an innovative take on a classic New Orleans dish — Shrimp & Grits — from Café Orleans, as well as a Spiced Fizz cocktail from the Grand Californian Hotel. On the East Coast, Disney World is highlighting new heritage-inspired culinary creations, such as the South African Hot Dog at Dockside Diner and a Kungaloosh! dessert from Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen. Hop over to our Celebrate Soulfully post for more information.
- Start off SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival swimmingly with more offerings than ever this year! From Feb. 2 to May 19, everyone from foodies to families can indulge in a selection of more than 50 global cuisine choices to pair with over 75 refreshing wine, cocktails and craft brews — including the Frozen Orlando Vice cocktail. Satisfy your soul with live musical performances to complement your tastings, as well as exhilarating coasters and awesome animal encounters!
- At Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point — Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming retreat on the island of Eleuthera — Mickey & Minnie will debut new, exclusive Bahamian-inspired outfits. Created by acclaimed Bahamian fashion designer, Theodore Elyett, the colorful ensembles were inspired by the bright spirit of Junkanoo – the country’s signature festival filled with vibrant music and parades. Learn more about Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on our blog as we continue to find out more information!
- Starting this weekend, join Snoopy and his entire crew for classic, comic fun during the PEANUTS Celebration at Knott’s Berry Farm! As of Jan. 27, guests can savor some delectable dishes, enjoy some silly entertainment and interact with members of the PEANUTS gang themselves! Rock on at Snoopy’s Legendary Rooftop Concert or draw one of the pals at Peanuts Sketch School. This year, you can meet the iconic Franklin and check out his historical exhibit at Town Hall!
That's it for theme park news this week.
Hoppy planning!
