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.
- Are you ready to let the good times roll? Universal Orlando Resort released new details about Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. Every year, the Mardi Gras parade features a mix of classic floats and floats that are tied together in a theme — and this year, expect to see floats inspired by earth, wind, fire, water, sun and moon. The concert lineup features a variety of artists, including DJ Khaled, Ava Max, The All-American Rejects, Queen Latifah and more. Hop over to our guide for more 2024 info!
- Disney After Hours events have recently kicked off again at Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios (with EPCOT restarting in early February) — and already, Disney has extended the dates into summer. The additional dates run through June 27 at Magic Kingdom, July 18 at EPCOT and Aug. 29 at Hollywood Studios. Tickets for these new dates go on sale to the general public starting Jan. 31, 2024. Psst ... you can get discount After Hours tickets from your favorite frogs!
- From the root, comes Groot ... we're so frogcited to see several brand-new topiaries at this year's EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, featuring the lovable tree alien, Groot, and characters from "Wish" and "Coco." The Garden Rocks concert series lineup has also dropped, and will include new acts and returning favorites.
- The Lunar New Year festival is just around the corner, with the celebration beginning next Tuesday, Jan. 23, at Disney California Adventure. Meilin Lee (in her human form) and her mother, Ming Lee, from "Turning Red" will make their debut at Disneyland Resort. Plus, we got a sneak peek at a new Munchling based on the Mickey-shaped Hot Dog Bun, a festival food staple. It will be available starting Jan. 27, along with a meet and greet with the Executive Pastry Chef who inspired the treat.
- The new Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness are set to debut as the newest Disney Vacation Club property later this summer. Disney Vacation Clubs for this resort begin Feb. 27, and bookings will open as early as March 12. The first loop of cabins is expected to open by July 1, 2024, with subsequent loops opening later in the month and throughout the year.
- Love is in the air (and so is the smell of some red, pink and white treats)! Disney released the Valentine's Day foodie guide for both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. If you're visiting in February, be sure to give your taste buds some love with delicious desserts galore.
That's it for theme park news this week.
Hoppy planning!
