Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting 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
- Rock on! Disney World rolled out new details about Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets this week, starting off with "Song 2" as the first song reveal. Next came a behind-the-scenes look at The Electric Mayhem performing "Can You Picture That?" at their sold-out show, which riders can catch as they exit. For the grand finale, Disney shared the full setlist of five song covers by Electric Mayhem with featured artists — Camilla the Chicken, Def Leppard, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson and Questlove. Now, when is it opening? May 26, 2026, which kicks off Cool Kids' Summer and other new hoppenings!
- At Disneyland Park, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will expand its timeline to include many different "Star Wars" eras, starting April 29, 2026. That means you'll soon see Han Solo, Leia Organa, Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader and more roaming Batuu! We got a first look at all the original trilogy characters. Plus, the newer timeline characters, including Rey, Ahsoka and The Mandalorian and Grogu, will continue to make appearances as well.
- If you're already thinking about a Disney World vacation next year, you're in luck! 2027 ticket and hotel inventory (through Oct. 31, 2027) is now available through Undercover Tourist, and you can save up to $90 per ticket! Disney confirmed that on-site benefits, Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours, will continue through 2027. Plus, free water park admission on arrival day will return in summer 2027. And, if booking a Walt Disney World hotel + ticket vacation package, there's a new third Dining Plan option — Deluxe-Table Service Dining Plan — for 2027 vacations.
- Universal Orlando Resort introduced Express Now, a brand-new option allowing one-time Express access to a single participating attraction during a specific time window at Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Epic Universe. Express Now operates with same-day, limited availability based on capacity, operational conditions and/or wait times. It's exclusively available through the Universal Orlando Resort app while you're inside the park (location services must be enabled). Hop back as we frogs test out this new offering, as we'll share our experiences in our main Express Pass guide and Epic Universe Express Pass guide!
- Disney Imagineering shared a behind-the-scenes look at the installation of the Sorcerer Mickey Hat in the new Walt Disney Studios Courtyard at Disney's Hollywood Studios. It sits atop The Magic of Disney Animation, a family-friendly experience filled with interactive activities and character greetings, opening in late summer 2026. Plus, you'll find character autographs in the concrete, featuring the handprints, footprints and pawprints of many Disney animated characters.
- Universal Fan Fest Nights is coming up, and Universal dropped additional photos of the exclusive food you'll find at the event. From the towering Super Shaggy Sandwich and Scooby Snacks to Dragon Egg Cheesecake (inspired by Dungeons & Dragons), Fan Fest Nights promises lots of fandom-inspired flavors!
That's a wrap on the latest theme park and cruise news.
Hoppy planning!
