Author: Brian Glenn

Universal Orlando Resort has announced details for their upcoming Holiday season, beginning Friday, November 17, and running daily through Sunday, December 31. From the wondrous spectacle of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, and coming face-to-face with everyone’s favorite green grouch, the Grinch, during Grinchmas, to gazing at the floats and larger-than-life balloons during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, there are boundless opportunities for guests to enjoy at Universal Orlando this holiday season. Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure Holiday magic fills The Wizarding World of…

Universal Destinations & Experiences has revealed the name of the company’s first-ever permanent horror experience: Universal Horror Unleashed. The new concept – to be located at AREA15 in Las Vegas – will offer next-level immersive experiences in an all-new format, with horror-centric experiences that will surround “eerie eateries” and “bone-chilling” bar areas. In addition, guests can expect a continuously updated experience with must-see seasonal events and one-of-a-kind merchandise. “Universal Horror Unleashed is another way we are using our unique style of horror storytelling to engage fans of this genre,” said Page Thompson, President, New Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences. “We look…

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from Oct 16, 2023, to Oct 22, 2023. Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights 32, featuring a line-up of haunted houses that include Stranger Things, The Last of Us, Universal Monsters, Chucky, and more, continues on select dates through November 4, 2023. Minion Land – which includes Villain-Con Minion Blast, Minion Cafe, Bake My Day, Illumination Theater Meet & Greet, and Freeze Ray Pops – is officially open! Refurbishments Please keep in mind refurbishment dates can change. Dudley Do Right’s Ripsaw Falls at Islands of Adventure is…

Universal Orlando has begun testing Photo Validation Facial Recognition at Islands of Adventure ticket booths. The testing is only being done on several of the ticket scanners and is optional. Other turnstiles are open during the “technical rehearsal” and still offer the fingerprint scanning option. Universal is touting the new validation as a “faster way” to enter the parks. Guests approach the turnstile to get their ticket scanned and wait for the camera to scan their face. The first visit will require your photo to be taken, but subsequent visits will allow a quicker entry once the photo is in…

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando is supporting breast cancer awareness with PINKTOBER throughout the month of October. All Hard Rock Hotels and Cafes worldwide are supporting Hard Rock International’s 24th global PINKTOBER campaign to support those affected by breast cancer, from current patients and survivors to caretakers and loved ones. Fundraising efforts support the Hard Rock Heals Foundation, the charitable arm of Hard Rock, with proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society. “As a testament to Hard Rock’s guiding mottos – “Love All, Serve All” and “Take Time To Be Kind” – we’re honored to partner with the Hard Rock…

Universal Studios Hollywood has announced 2023’s Holiday event, with returning favorites, “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” and “Grinchmas,” beginning Friday, November 24, 2023, and running daily through Monday, January 1, 2024. “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” brings the spirit of the holiday season to the village of Hogsmeade as the land is transformed with merry décor of shimmering lights, decorative garlands, and festive wreaths. Guests can delight in special holiday acappella performances from the Frog Choir, stroll through the village shops while sipping delicious hot Butterbeer, or savor festive fare at Three Broomsticks. Beginning at…

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from Oct 9, 2023, to Oct 15, 2023. Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights 32, featuring a line-up of haunted houses that include Stranger Things, The Last of Us, Universal Monsters, Chucky, and more, continues on select dates through November 4, 2023. Minion Land – which includes Villain-Con Minion Blast, Minion Cafe, Bake My Day, Illumination Theater Meet & Greet, and Freeze Ray Pops – is officially open! Refurbishments Please keep in mind refurbishment dates can change. Dudley Do Right’s Ripsaw Falls at Islands of Adventure is…

Universal Destinations & Experiences has announced a new partnership with Visa and will introduce the new co-branded credit card product, the Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature Card. The program will offer card designs featuring some of Universal’s most beloved characters and provide consumers with exclusive perks and benefits, including the ability to earn rewards for Universal products, experiences, and travel. The card will be available in early 2024. Select Visa cardholders will enjoy special food and beverages, merchandise, and other experiential benefits, including a VIP Lounge at the Universal theme parks. Universal’s new Financial Services partners include Visa as its…

Universal Orlando has debuted a new dance show featuring Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse. Gabby’s Dollhouse Dance Party takes place in Hollywood. The show starts as Gabby and friends make their way from the Hollywood gate to Mel’s Drive-in where they do a quick dance number before meeting guests. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qccIo1QPLI As of now, Universal Orlando has not released a show schedule. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards.

Universal Orlando has released a new merch line just in time for the Holiday season with the new “Christmas at Hogwarts” merchandise. The Holiday merchandise features dinnerware, scented candles, mugs, greeting cards, stationery, and ornaments. These images were taken in the Christmas Store at Islands of Adventure, but the items can be found around the Resort. The scented candles ($28) are available in 3 scents – Gingerbread, Frosted Pines, and Orange Nutmeg. The dinnerware ($55) features 4 different plates featuring Potter iconography in a Holiday setting. A large ‘Happy Christmas’ ceramic tray can also be purchased for $35. A Christmas…