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.
- Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort are both once again celebrating our favorite Star Wars holiday, May the 4th, with some delicious bites and beverages. From returning favorites, such as the Jettison Juice and Mustafarian Puff at Disney's Hollywood Studios, to brand-new delights, such as the Stormtrooper Petit Cake at Disney Springs and Guava Coconut Milk with Basil Crystals at Disneyland Park, there's something for every Jedi to enjoy! Don't froget to pick up some awesome souvenirs from a galaxy far, far away, such as the Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket (available at both resorts!) and the Sap Tap Cup (available at Disneyland Park). Check out our guide to Season of the Force for all the intergalactic hopppenings at Disneyland Resort!
- A brand-new, action-packed performance is coming soon to Universal Studios Hollywood! From April 27 to May 19, 2024, guests seeing WaterWorld will be treated to an unforgettable pre-show inspired by Universal Pictures and 87North's new film, "The Fall Guy." Showcasing dynamic new stunts and using the existing WaterWorld set, "The Fall Guy Stuntacular Pre-Show" will feature an original storyline designed to provide an entertaining peak behind the curtain of how stunt performances are designed and brought to life. Guests can also share the excitement with a photo-op from the movie in the park.
- Are you participating in the 2024 runDisney Virtual Series? If so, you're in for a real treat! Disney just unveiled the medals for the Virtual Series races and they all truly do look good enough to eat. Inspired by the individual event themes, these medals feature iconic Disney Parks snacks: a Mickey Mouse Waffle, a Mickey Mouse Bar, a Minnie Mouse Candy Apple and a Pineapple Whip Soft Serve. While all three 5Ks are sold out, spots are still available for the Pineapple Whip Soft Serve Challenge! Check out our guides for everything you need to know about the 2024 runDisney races both at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World.
- Universal Orlando Resort has teased some sizzling news for the summer! On April 18, 2024, they posted a series of VHS tapes labeled "Childhood Memories," "Fun in the Water," "First Day of School" and "Get the Show on the Road!" and a day later, they posted a retro '90s TV that showed the date "APR 29 2024," the original neon Universal Studios Florida logo and distorted audio over a static-filled screen. We can't wait to find out what these clues mean, but in the meantime, check out our toadally cool tips for visiting Universal Orlando in the summer!
- Our favorite furry friends are back at SeaWorld Orlando! Starting on April 22, 2024, Rescue Tails will return to the SeaPort Theater for daily performances. Sit back, relax and listen to inspiring tales of rescues while learning about the importance of conservation. See the park schedule for showtimes.
- An adorable new addition has arrived at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! On April 13, 2024, a critically endangered Bornean orangutan was born to resident Bornean orangutan, Luna. At 3.4 pounds, she was delivered via c-section by a team of medical and zoological professionals across multiple organizations to ensure that both she and her mom received the highest standard of care. At this time, Luna is currently recovering from surgery. Once she and her baby are stabilized, they'll be reunited and closely monitored by the park's vet team and animal care specialists.
- Do you bleed orange and blue? Then hop on over to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on April 21, 2024, for Gators Day! You'll get to meet our green friends, Albert and Alberta, as well as attend a special Q&A session with some of the University of Florida athletes. "Come on Gators, get up and GO!"
- Get ready for the ultimate fiesta! SeaWorld San Diego has announced the headlining concerts for their Viva La Música celebration. Enjoy the Mariachi Divas on May 4, Pablo Montero on May 5, Graciela Beltran on May 11 and 12 and La Original Banda El Limón on May 18 and 19. All concerts take place at 6 p.m. at Bayside Amphitheater. Check out our guide to all the fintastic events hoppening year-round at SeaWorld San Diego.
- The Anaheim City Council unanimously approved the DisneylandForward project this week, setting the stage for over $1.9 billion over the next decade. The final vote for the project will take place May 7, 2024.
That's it for theme park news this week.
Hoppy planning!
