Summer at Universal Studios Hollywood is already the place to be — packed with thrills, world-class rides and unfrogettable movie magic. But this year, Universal is turning the dial way up with the opening of the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster. With the return of Universal Mega Movie Summer, Universal Studios Hollywood is the ultimate destination for film fans, thrill seekers and anyone looking to make the most of their summer in Southern California. The park will be bursting with limited-time experiences, exclusive eats, themed merchandise and larger-than-life moments that bring iconic movies to life like never before.
FAQs
- When is Mega Movie Summer? Mega movie summer runs June 13 to Aug. 9, 2026.
- When does Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift open? It opens in summer 2026. For the most updated opening information on this new coaster, hop over to the Fast & Furious blog post.
- Are there any ticket deals at Universal Studios Hollywood? Yes! Undercover Tourist offers refundable discount Universal tickets year-round. But for a limited time, you can buy a day and get a second day FREE through Undercover Tourist! Your second visit can occur through Dec. 16, 2026, but the second day is subject to blackout dates.
- Are there other Universal Studios Hollywood events? Read about all the exciting Universal Studios events in the Universal Studios events post.
- How can we stay cool and avoid crowds at Universal in summer? Hop over to the Universal Studios Hollywood summer tips guide.
- Are there fireworks for the 4th of July? Yes, there are new fireworks July 3 and 4, 2026! You can also expect live fife and drum performances, festive décor and popular character encounters those days.
- Does the Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts castle run in summer? In summer 2026, you can see Hogwarts Always, once it gets dark.
Overview of Universal Mega Movie Summer 2026
For a limited time, Buy a Day, Get a 2nd Day FREE for General Admission Tickets at Universal Studios Hollywood! Valid for visits through Dec. 16, 2026
Get ready for the ultimate summer blockbuster experience at Universal Studios Hollywood. From June 13 to Aug. 9, 2026, Universal Mega Movie Summer transforms the park into a movie lover's dream. You won't want to miss the exclusive experiences, thrilling entertainment, themed eats and must-snap photo ops. These offerings run daily, and are open to all park guests (so there isn't a separate ticket needed like Halloween Horror Nights or Fan Fest Nights). To spot-must-see characters, look for the "Meet Your Favorites" section of the Universal Studios Hollywood app for locations and times.
Summer Ticket Deal
This is a great time to visit because you can get a second day FREE! Your second visit can be through Dec. 16, 2026, but that second visit is subject to the following blackout dates:
- July 3, 4, 25
- Sept. 5, 6, 12, 19, 26
- Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24
- Nov. 27, 28
You can purchase with peace of mind through Undercover Tourist because Universal tickets are covered by the 365-day return policy. What we love about this deal is the flexibility. You can use it twice in summer or save a day and use it as late as Grinchmas in December!
Whether you're looking to beat the heat, hang with friends or party in the park, this summer is going to be legendary. Check out our Universal Studios Hollywood events guide to see what you can expect all year long!
We are still awaiting the opening date of the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster in summer 2026.
Minions & Monsters
Illumination’s "Minions & Monsters" brings the film’s newest Minions stars, Henry and James, to Super Silly Fun Land near Despicable Me Minion Mayhem for an interactive guest experience and an energetic Minion Dance Party!
The Minions Cafe has new treats:
- Howard’s Berry Lemonade Cupcake
- James’ Carbonara: Cavatappi pasta tossed in a garlic cream sauce with pancetta and peas.
Despicable Delights offers a new delectable frozen beverage:
- Irene’s Orange Banana Float
Shop for all-new "Minions & Monsters"-themed merchandise, including an all-new Goomi shoulder pal, blind box figures, clothing accessories and more.
Take a Bite Out of "Jaws" (themed food, that is)
Is it summer in SoCal without fear of a shark sighting?
This summer Mel's Diner is serving up shark-tastic, returning foods so you can eat like a shark:
- Lobster Roll
- Shark Bait Burger
- Fish and Chicken Basket
- Amity Island Funnel Cake
Studio Scoops in the Lower Lot debuts a Hello Kitty Jaws Blueberry Cheesecake Sundae and a Shark Bite Swirl.
Gear up with some shark-chic merchandise, including a new Loungefly crossbody bag, apparel and accessories.
"Wicked" Fun at the Entrance
Elphaba and Glinda return for summer! Snap a photo with these fan-favorite witches from "Wicked" at the colorful themed photo op right by the DreamWorks Theatre. You never know which witch you'll witness, but either way you'll walk away, changed for good.
You can shop for Wicked parks exclusive merchandise, such as Spirit Jerseys, plushes and more.
"Fast & Furious" — Opening Summer 2026!
The countdown is on for Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, coming in summer 2026! This high-speed, outdoor coaster is Universal Studios Hollywood's first-ever high-speed outdoor coaster and is themed after the "Fast & Furious" franchise. The "state-of-the-art" ride system will feature a 360-degree rotation of individual ride vehicles and sound-reduction technology that will create a sensation of drifting cars.
Mega Movie Summer celebrates the 25th anniversary of the film franchise in Universal Plaza with a dazzling display of authentic picture cars from the films. Get ready to move to a rousing hip-hop performance by the Street Racers dance show. A daily DJ will add energy and excitement in Universal Plaza.
When you're family, you need to look the part for the 25-year family reunion. Shop for new anniversary merchandise at the 101 Exchange store, located adjacent to Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.
No party is complete without themed food. Hollywood & Dine shifts into high gear. It has transformed into Drift & Dine. It has a Fast & Furious–themed, limited-time menu:
- L.A. Drift Dog
- BBQ Chicken Platter
- Fried Elote Corn Dog
- BBQ Corn Ribs
- Quarter Mile Funnel Cake
- Street Cart Watermelon and Pineapple
- Themed beverages
Cocina Mexicana, next to Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, offers a shareable La Familia Meal.
The Odyssey on The Studio Tour
Experience epic, behind-the-scenes moments tied to the cinematic adaptation of Homer’s saga that will give you a closer look at the making of this cinematic adventure.
See an original ship featured in the film on display along the world-famous Studio Tour. Watch insightful footage and filmmaker interviews on the tram monitors.
The Party Continues at Universal CityWalk Hollywood
CityWalk is getting in on the action with themed treats, entertainment and more.
- Voodoo Doughnut drops new Minion-themed faves, including the Banana Cream Mayhem Doughnut and the Minions & Monsters Mischief Doughnut.
- The Universal Studios Store and Cartooniversal are stocking up on exclusive movie merch, toys and apparel.
- Catch this summer’s biggest blockbusters such as "The Odyssey" (as of July 17) and "Minions & Monsters"(as of July 1) at Universal Cinema AMC.
- See the 34-foot-tall Trojan Horse from Christopher Nolan’s "The Odyssey" at Universal CityWalk Hollywood for a limited-time appearance, beginning in July, in front of the Universal Cinema AMC.
- NBC Sports Grill & Brew offers new menu options the the Fast & Furious 25th Anniversary, featuring the Full Throttle Teriyaki Burger, Drift Tandem Skewers, Car Meet Platter and a Nitrous Boost cocktail.
- Antojitos Cocina Mexicana serves two new flavorful dishes inspired by Fast & Furious — the Birria Burger and La Familia Platter, as well as a tequila-based cocktail.
- Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville offers up island vibes with two Jaws-themed items: Beachside Melt and the Forbidden Waters cocktail. ("You got fins to the left, fins to the right...")
The Fourth of July at Universal Studios Hollywood
You can celebrate the Fourth of July at Universal Studios Hollywood on July 3 and 4, 2026. Enjoy a new fireworks show, live fife and drum performances, festive décor, and popular character encounters those days.
Whether you're team dinosaur, shark, dragon, witch or time traveler, there’s something for every fan at this unforgettable summer celebration. What are you most excited about? Grab your discount Universal Studios Hollywood tickets from Undercover Tourist, a trusted ticket seller for over 25 years!
Related: How to Manage Summer Crowds and Heat at Universal Studios Hollywood
Related: What Not to Miss at Universal Studios Hollywood (Including Our Favorite Rides!)
Hoppy planning!
