Author: Brian Glenn

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from February 5, 2024, to February 11, 2024. Universal Orlando 2024’s Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will run daily from February 3 through April 7, 2024. This weekend will feature a concert on Saturday, February 10, with The All-American Rejects performing live. This year’s Mardi Gras parade theme will bring the elements to life in six new, beautifully designed parade floats inspired by Earth, wind, fire, water, the sun and the moon. With Winter arriving in Central Florida, Volcano Bay may close if the temperature is forecasted…

From February 3 through April 7, guests will let the good times roll as they experience an authentic, family-friendly version of the Mardi Gras bash at Universal Studios Florida. The event will be held over 60+ nights – with the food booths open and the parade taking place every night. Mardi Gras couples unparalleled theme park entertainment with a dazzling parade, authentic New Orleans musicians, mouth-watering international cuisine, tons of glittering Mardi Gras beads, and live concerts by high-profile artists. We’ve gathered everything you need to know before heading out to the event, including parade times, and how to plan…

The Mardi Gras Tribute Store has officially opened at Universal Studios Florida as Universal Orlando gears up for 2024’s Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. The highly-themed store takes guests on a haunted river cruise through the Mississippi complete with beads, treats and a gator or two. Here, guests can shop for ultra-festive Mardi Gras merchandise to commemorate their visit – ranging from t-shirts, jean jackets and hoodies to bucket hats, cups and a gator light-up popcorn bucket The Tribute Store features 4 different rooms – first welcoming guests aboard the fictional steamer, The P.S. Songbird. As guests make…

Universal Studios Hollywood is celebrating the Year of the Dragon as they have announced that Hollywood & Dine will serve specially-themed cuisine at the restaurant through February. In addition, Hello Kitty will be meeting guests in her Lunar New Year attire. https://x.com/UniStudios/status/1753504875130806569?s=20 Here’s a look at the menu for the Lunar New Year at Hollywood & Vine: Specialty Cocktail Dragon’s Breath  – $18.00 Baijiu, Amaretto, prickly pear syrup and ginger ale with a marshmallow gold sugar rim topped with dragon fruit Specialty Drinks Baby Dragon  – $11.00 Ginger ale, prickly pear syrup, and dragon fruit popping boba pearls with a marshmallow gold sugar rim…

Universal Orlando has opened the “Monster Makeover: Become the Monster!” experience at Universal Studios Florida. The makeover-style experience is located at the 5 & Dime in the Hollywood section of Universal Studios Florida. Guests can choose from 38 options of different monster makeovers, which are done by one of Universal’s makeup professionals – the same professionals that handle the makeup effects for Halloween Horror Nights. Guests must make a reservation at the 5 & Dime for the experience and can choose a full face of makeup for $125 or a half-face design for $65. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for…

Universal Studios Hollywood is celebrating the 1st Anniversary of Super Nintendo World with “new ways to level up”, including the all-new Power Up Cafe, the debut of a commemorative, special-release Golden Power-Up Band, and a limited-edition complimentary 1-Year Anniversary Button. Opening on February 17, 2023 – Super Nintendo World features the groundbreaking “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, interactive activities throughout the Mushroom Kingdom, dining at Toadstool Cafe, and shopping at the 1-UP Factory retail store. On February 15, the all-new Power Up Cafe opens on New York Street, located on the Upper Lot inside the theme park. This grab-and-go cafe…

Universal Studios Hollywood has officially soft-opened the Power Up Cafe, which will officially open on February 15, 2024. This new venue features unique Super Mario-themed menu items and is located on New York Street on the Upper Lot. The menu features calzones, popcorn, and “fizz” soda drinks. A reminder that a Soft Opening is a technical rehearsal, so an opening is never promised. The Cafe might only be open for a period of time, all day, or not at all, depending on any issues or changes. There is no set schedule or guarantee it will be open until it’s officially…

Universal Orlando has shared the first-ever details for its new theme park, Epic Universe, announcing the 5 themed lands featured when the park opens in 2025. “The Journey to Epic Begins Now…” Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion and innovation that is unmatched – transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences. Guests will enter through a set of “majestic portals that capture the imagination and creativity of each world”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4u83ncMjuE Celestial Park, As soon as guests enter the imaginative world, they’ll embark on a journey of discovery,…

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from January 29, 2024, to February 4, 2024. Universal Orlando Universal Orlando is celebrating their passholders with Passholder Bonus Benefits until January 31, 2024. The event gives Annual and Seasonal Passholders extra benefits only available for a limited time, including a dedicated park entrance, special menus, and exclusive merchandise. 2024’s Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will run daily from February 3 through April 7, 2024. This weekend will feature a concert on Saturday, February 3, with Walker Hayes performing live. This year’s Mardi Gras…

Universal Orlando Resort guests can enjoy a special pop-up shop highlighting the magical creations of Studio MinaLima – the beloved artists behind the graphic props of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films – at the Universal Studios Store in Universal CityWalk. Founders Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima designed some of the most renowned and loved film props such as the Hogwarts Acceptance Letter, The Marauder’s Map, The Daily Prophet and the Black Family Tapestry. This limited-time experience will allow Wizarding World fans to shop a variety of authentic, MinaLima-designed magical keepsakes such as prints, journals, stationery, home décor, accessories and more. House…