Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting theme park news around Universal Orlando, the Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland Resort, other theme parks and more.
Weekly Roundup of Theme Park News
- Listen up, Swifties! A brand-new, limited-time exhibit featuring costumes from Taylor Swift's iconic Eras Tour is now on display at Walt Disney Presents in Disney's Hollywood Studios. Yes, including the "Reputation" gold snake bodysuit! As Swifties already know, it is also the same day that both the "Taylor Swift | The End of an Era" docuseries and "The Final Show," a full-concert film, premiere on Disney+. The exhibit will stick around until Jan. 23, 2026.
- Don't want to miss Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith's last day? The final "performance," if you will, is set for March 1, 2026. This version of the ride will then permanently close on March 2, 2026, to transform into Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets, reopening in summer 2026.
- EPCOT International Festival of the Arts kicks off Jan. 16, 2026, and Disney has revealed the schedules of new and returning artists who will showcase — and potentially even sign — their work. Check out the Artist Portal to see more info on locations, dates and times (subject to change).
- Has a Hallmark holiday movie at Disney World ever been on your Christmas wish list? If so, it's coming true! Disney World and Hallmark Channel announced a new original movie, "Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True." Starring Lacey Chabert and Travis Van Winkle, the film is shooting on location at Disney World and will debut during the holiday season in 2026.
- A few more holiday dining options have arrived at Universal Epic Universe! Atlantic Restaurant now features five dishes for the season, including a House Seasonal Salad, Smoked Salmon Rillette, Duck Breast, Seafood Stew and a holiday Surf & Turf. You can also find a Holiday Churro at Celestial Snacks and Chocolate-Peppermint Soft Serve at Frosty Moon.
- ICYMI: Last week, Disney revealed the 2026 event schedules and special hoppenings for both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, which include bicoastal debuts of Bluey and Bingo, Soarin' Across America and a new "The Mandalorian and Grogu"-themed mission for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. From beloved festivals to after-dark parties, each resort has an exciting lineup in store for next year. For full details, be sure to check out our in-depth Disney World and Disneyland special events guides!
- While we're still talking special events, tickets for two Disneyland After Dark events — Sweethearts' Nite and the all-new 70 Years of Favorites — are now available directly through Disney. On 9 select nights in January and February, love is in the air, and whether you're celebrating with your partner, bestie or other loved ones, Sweethearts' Nite offers up heartfelt fun all night long. Meanwhile, 70 Years of Favorites is inspired by seven decades of Disneyland history, featuring nostalgic entertainment, characters and more. Stay tuned for more details about the remaining After Dark events — Disney Channel Nite, Star Wars Nite and Pride Nite.
- If you've been waiting to book a Disneyland trip, now's the perfect time! For a limited time, you can snag a FREE $10 Disney Gift Card with each Disneyland Resort theme park ticket purchase through Undercover Tourist. Hurry now, as this offer is only available while supplies last.
- Start the countdown to blastoff! The previously announced Galacticoaster now has an opening date at both LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND California. The new indoor, space-themed family coaster is set to launch on Feb. 27, 2026, in Florida and March 6, 2026, in California. Additionally, at the California location specifically, the coaster will be part of a larger land called LEGO Galaxy, featuring two other themed rides, a play area and dining and retail locations.
That's a wrap on the latest theme park news.
Hoppy planning!
