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
- The holiday season is starting even earlier this year at Universal Studios Hollywood! Kicking off Nov. 24, 2025, and running through Jan. 4, 2026, Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood features festive experiences — including Grinchmas and Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter entertainment — as well as seasonal decor and merch in Super Nintendo World. You won't want to miss meeting the Grinch and his dog Max, or sipping on Hot Butterbeer while listening to the Frog Choir's holiday tunes. For more Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas 2025 details, hop over to our guide.
- Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift has begun its first phase of test drives. It marks a major milestone for the highly anticipated, high-speed roller coaster that will launch in 2026 at Universal Studios Hollywood. Previously announced, Dom's Dodge Charger will be one of the four ride vehicles, though the entire train will be concealed during this initial testing until the other three are revealed at a later date. Stay tuned for more coaster updates on our blog as we learn more details.
- Disney Cruise Line officially welcomed the Disney Destiny to the fleet with a special delivery ceremony! This maritime tradition marks the final stage of the construction process and the transfer of ownership from the shipbuilder Meyer Werft to Disney Cruise Line. The Disney Destiny will soon make the transatlantic journey to its homeport in Fort Lauderdale and embark on its maiden voyage starting Nov. 20, 2025.
- From Shrek's Swamp to a wild water ride with Minions, Universal Kids Resort will feature many family-friendly experiences within seven themed lands. This week, we learned more exciting details about the new theme park geared just for kids. In our frog family, Tad is most excited about visiting SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star and Sandy Cheeks in Bikini Bottom. Meanwhile, Lily can't wait to join the dance party in Gabby's Dollhouse. Universal Kids Resort opens in the Dallas area in 2026.
- Ahead of the upcoming release of "Wicked: For Good," Wicked: The Experience at Universal Studios Florida will receive a new overlay. Starting Oct. 31, 2025, at noon, you'll find new displays featuring costumes and props from the movie and photo-ops. Plus, there will be exclusive merch and themed food and drinks to fully immersive yourself in the world of Oz.
- In just a few weeks, we'll be able to celebrate Zoogether Day with Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and other Zootopia residents as part of the new attraction, Zootopia: Better Zoogether, at Animal Kingdom. Upon its opening on Nov. 7, 2025, Zootopia: Better Zoogether will be available on Lightning Lane Multi Pass. For a full breakdown on using Lightning Lane Multi Pass, hop over to our Disney World Lightning Lane guide.
- The holidays are right around the corner! Starting as early as Nov. 3, 2025, you can set sail on Jingle Cruise with yuletide jokes and festive decor at Magic Kingdom. Later in the week, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party kicks off Nov. 7, and we got a sneak peek at some more party-exclusive merch (we need that Chip 'n' Dale ornament!).
- Disney After Hours tickets went on sale earlier this week. In 2026, Magic Kingdom, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios will host Disney After Hours events on select nights from January through September. During After Hours, you can enjoy lower wait times and special character greetings. Plus, you can snack on unlimited popcorn, ice cream and bottled beverages all night long. Save some green with discount After Hours tickets from your favorite frogs!
- LAST CHANCE! Disneyland Resort gate prices have gone up, but Undercover Tourist is still holding lower ticket prices for a limited time, including tickets pre-loaded with Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Don't wait — lock in maximum savings of up to $105 per ticket! Tickets are valid through Jan. 12, 2027, so if you're planning a 2026 Disneyland vacation, it's the perfect time to jump on it. Plus, Undercover Tourist tickets come with a 365-day refund policy (no worries if plans change!).
That's a wrap on the latest theme park news.
Hoppy planning!
