Annual Passholders Can Now Claim Exclusive Epic Universe Poster During Passholder Previews

By

-

April 17, 2025

Annual Passholders Can Now Claim Exclusive Epic Universe Poster During Passholder Previews

Annual Passholder Previews Begin at Epic Universe — And There’s a Free Poster Up for Grabs!

Today’s the day, Universal fans! 🎉 Annual Passholder previews for Universal’s Epic Universe have officially kicked off, and there’s an epic bonus waiting just for Passholders during this special sneak peek window. If you’re one of the lucky ones stepping through the portals early—don’t miss your chance to score an exclusive piece of park history!

🌀 A Poster Worthy of the Cosmos

Starting April 17, Passholders with valid Epic Universe preview admission can claim a FREE Specialty Poster—and trust us, this thing is frame-worthy.

Here’s the lowdown:

🖼️ The poster features stunning Epic Universe concept art, showcasing the dazzling Chronos Tower entrance and the glowing grandeur of the entire park behind it.
📜 Keep unfolding and you’ll reveal a full concept map of all five lands:
- Celestial Park
- Super Nintendo World
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
- Dark Universe
✉️ It comes folded postcard-style for easy travel—just pop it in your backpack and prepare to impress your fellow theme park pals.

📍Where to Grab It

You’ll need to visit the Sensorium Emporium in Celestial Park to claim your poster. The pickup window runs from park open to close, but keep in mind—supplies are limited, and this beauty is first-come, first-served.

🎟️ Valid Preview Ticket and Park Admission are required, so make sure you’ve got all your passes in order before heading to the Emporium.

🧭 More Perks On the Horizon

This giveaway is just the beginning. Universal has teased that more bonus benefits for Passholders are set to arrive in May, so keep those eyes peeled and your Universal app handy.

Passholder previews run through May 8, and Universal has hinted that additional previews may be announced between May 9 and the grand opening on May 22. The countdown is on!

Whether you’re team dragons, monsters, wizards, or plumbers—don’t leave Epic Universe without grabbing this exclusive collectible. Because nothing says “I previewed Epic Universe before it opened” like a stunning concept poster that turns your wall into a portal of its own. 🌌

Epic Universe Merchandise Store First Look at the Orlando Airport

By

Chris B

-

April 17, 2025

Epic Universe Merchandise Store First Look at the Orlando Airport

Epic Arrival! The New Epic Universe Store Lands at Orlando International Airport

Before you even scan your park ticket or scream your first coaster scream, Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe is already welcoming travelers in style—right at Orlando International Airport (MCO)! ✈️🌌

During a recent trip through MCO, we spotted something truly… epic. A brand-new Epic Universe merchandise store has officially opened its gates inside the airport—and it’s the only Universal shop at MCO where you can snag gear from Universal’s highly anticipated fourth theme park.

📍 Where to Find It

The store, which first opened back in January, is tucked away on Level 3 in Terminal B, right before security and located next to the original Universal store in Terminal A/B. So whether you’re just landing or flying out (and already missing the magic), it’s easy to swing by and grab a souvenir from the future of theme park fun.

Heads up: There’s another Universal store in Terminal C, but that one does not stock Epic Universe items—so this is the exclusive spot for all your new park merch needs!

🛍️ What You’ll Find

The store is packed with merchandise representing the five incredible worlds of Epic Universe:

Celestial Park – Where wonders orbit the center of the park (and now your luggage).
Super Nintendo World – Power-up with Mario, Luigi, and friends!
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – Viking gear worthy of Hiccup himself.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – Magic beyond the British Isles.
Dark Universe – Monsters, mystery, and merch with a moody twist.

From apparel and accessories to collectibles and plush, the new Epic Universe store has everything to help you show off your future-trip-to-the-park bragging rights—before you even touch down in Orlando or while you’re sobbing into your Butterbeer on the way home.

✨ One More Step Toward Epic

This store is just one more way Universal is rolling out the red carpet for its game-changing new park, opening Summer 2025. So if you’re flying into MCO, be sure to stop by the Epic Universe store and snag a piece of the excitement before the gates even open.

Because let’s be honest—shopping is the real first ride of the day. 🎢🛍️

Stay tuned for more Epic Universe updates…this is just the beginning!

New Universal Helios Grand Hotel Welcomes Its First Guests at Universal Orlando Resort

By

Chris B

-

April 17, 2025

Universal Helios Grand Hotel Opens Its Doors – A Grand Welcome to Epic Universe’s Crown Jewel

Sunshine, sophistication, and a splash of dragon magic—today marks the official opening of Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Universal Orlando Resort’s newest hotel and the very first resort overlooking the epic excitement of the all-new Epic Universe theme park!

Stepping into this Mediterranean-inspired marvel feels like entering a sun-kissed dream. Designed by the creative masterminds at Universal Creative and brought to life in partnership with Loews Hotels & Co, this 500-room beauty joins Universal Orlando’s Signature Hotel Collection—and it’s already radiating golden vacation vibes.

✨ A Stay That’s As Epic As The Park Next Door

Situated just steps from the gates of Epic Universe, Helios Grand Hotel delivers an unbeatable mix of immersion and relaxation. Guests can expect bright, airy rooms and suites with stylish touches and playful surprises—including How to Train Your Dragon-themed Kids’ Suites that will make little Vikings feel right at home.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve entered an oasis crafted for theme park royalty.

🍴 Dining Fit for the Gods

Foodies, rejoice! Helios Grand is dishing out some seriously tasty options:

Flora Taverna – A modern taverna with Mediterranean flair, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Aurora Market – A quick-service spot for snacks, drinks, and grab-and-go goodness.
Lotus Lagoon – A poolside paradise serving up light bites and tropical cocktails.
Bar Helios – The crowning jewel of the hotel, perched on the top floor with sweeping views into Epic Universe. Yes, you can sip your drink and gaze upon roller coasters. Cheers to that.

🏊‍♂️ Chill Meets Thrill

When you’re not exploring the theme park, soak up the sun at the resort-style zero-entry pool, kick back in a private cabana, or bubble away your stress in the hot tub. There’s also a fitness center, game room, and a Universal Studios Store on-site—because it’s not a vacation without some epic merch.

🚪 Your Gateway to Epic Universe

One of the biggest perks? Guests of the Helios Grand Hotel have direct access to Epic Universe through a dedicated entrance from the hotel lobby. You’ll be able to roll out of bed and right into adventure—starting May 23, 2025, Early Park Admission will include Epic Universe too (with valid park admission, of course).

And yes, hotel guests still get the classics:

Early Park Admission to select parks
Complimentary shuttle service to all Universal theme parks and CityWalk

🌞 Your Next Universal Stay Just Got Brighter

Whether you’re here to conquer Celestial Park, fly with dragons, or simply lounge like a Greek god, Universal Helios Grand Hotel delivers on style, comfort, and that signature Universal magic.

Time to book that sun-soaked stay: www.UniversalOrlando.com/Helios

Let the epic begin. 🌟

Day & Night Magic: Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th Anniversary Entertainment

By

Sara

-

April 16, 2025

Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th Anniversary: Day and Night Entertainment

Hong Kong Disneyland is celebrating its 20th anniversary with new entertainment! Disney Parks shared a look at both the new castle stage show and the nighttime spectacular available during the celebration. Take a look!

Day & Night Magic: Hong Kong Disneyland's 20th Anniversary Entertainment

Looking for the perfect way to begin your 20th Anniversary day-to-night festivities? Look no further than “Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!” This ultimate show is a high-energy spectacle featuring catchy pop music, incredible dance moves, and impressive giant balloons.

Multiple characters will be part of the castle stage show and will be sporting their new 20th anniversary outfits! Guests will also get to hear the new 20th anniversary theme song during this show.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Disney Moments HK (@disneymoments.hk)

To close out your visit to Hong Kong Disneyland, you won’t want to miss a special edition of the nighttime spectacular “Momentous: Party in the Night Sky!” This anniversary-limited nighttime spectacular will light up the sky beyond the Castle, extending all the way to Main Street, U.S.A., with even more Disney stories and multimedia experiences!

From the images shared, it appears the nighttime show will utilize projections, drones, spotlights, water, and more!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Disney Moments HK (@disneymoments.hk)

Developers of New Storyliving by Disney Community Buy First Plot of Land in North Carolina

By

Sara

-

April 16, 2025

First Land Acquired for Storyliving by Disney Community in North Carolina

In a significant step forward, the developers of Asteria, the new Storyliving by Disney community in North Carolina, have completed their first land acquisition.

Developers of New Storyliving by Disney Community Buy First Plot of Land in North Carolina

In March 2025, developers spent $23.3 million to purchase 217 acres in North Carolina for the new Storyliving by Disney community, Asteria, according to WRAL News. A Pittsboro town spokesperson indicated this is the first of nine steps to acquire the planned 1,500 acres for the residential area.

Asteria marks the second Storyliving by Disney community, with the first being “Cotino” in Ranchero Mirage, California. The North Carolina development is slated to include 4,000 single-family and multi-family residences. Currently in the early stages of development, home sales are projected to commence by 2027.

DMB/SWVP Raleigh, an LLC associated with Arizona’s DMB Development, and Stanley Living at CP, an LLC connected to Disney, have submitted preliminary development layout plans for Pittsboro. These plans are expected to be available for public viewing in May.

Inspired by a spirit of discovery, Asteria is being thoughtfully designed to encourage exploration, cultivate lifelong learning, and foster meaningful connections among its future residents. The team at Storyliving by Disney is working in close collaboration with Walt Disney Imagineers and DMB Development to craft a distinctive vision for this new community, directly influenced by Walt Disney’s inherent curiosity and dedication to learning.

The name “Asteria” is a deliberate homage to the aster flower, native to North Carolina. It also carries a connection to the Greek goddess Asteria, whose mythical tears of stardust are said to have given rise to the first aster flowers. Imagineers chose this evocative name to celebrate the natural beauty of North Carolina, linking the land and the sky.

Residents of Asteria can anticipate homes lining picturesque streets that lead to a diverse array of community amenities, all carefully designed to showcase the surrounding natural landscape. Potential offerings include engaging Disney-themed family events, immersive storytelling dinners inspired by beloved Disney tales, and enriching classes taught by Disney artists.

Nat Geo Launches ourHome Earth Month Sweepstakes

By

Sara

-

April 16, 2025

Nat Geo’s ourHome Earth Month Sweepstakes is Here!

In anticipation of Earth Day, National Geographic has launched the ourHOME sweepstakes as part of their month-long Earth Month celebration. This sweepstakes, open to U.S. residents aged 18 and over, offers one grand prize: a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions trip to Antarctica for two.

Celebrate the beauty and wonder of our planet with National Geographic this month for Earth Month, and you’ll have a daily chance to win an expedition to Antarctica. Witness the raw beauty of this icy continent firsthand with a team of experts who are eager to share their knowledge. Enter the ourHOME sweepstakes once per day at natgeo.com/ourhomesweepstakes between April 15th and April 30th, 2025.

The prize includes the following:

One 12-day expedition cruise aboard the National Geographic Resolution or National Geographic Endurance to Antarctica for two (double occupancy)
Round-trip coach airfare and transfers upon arrival and departure
All meals as indicated in the itinerary
Daily activities and excursions as indicated by the itinerary, including kayaking or boating near icebergs, encountering wildlife, and visiting hard-to-reach places
Access to biologists, geologists and undersea specialists to learn about wildlife throughout the trip

The ourHOME sweepstakes is a component of the broader ourHOME campaign, a joint initiative launched by The Walt Disney Company and National Geographic on April 1st. This campaign spotlights global conservation efforts and celebrates our shared planet, emphasizing the storytelling legacy of both brands in fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Throughout the year, the ourHOME streaming collection on Disney+ offers a celebration of Earth’s beauty through acclaimed content like SECRETS OF THE OCTOPUS, QUEENS, and A REAL BUG’S LIFE, alongside the complete Disneynature film library. Furthermore, Earth Week will feature three global premieres: Nat Geo’s SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS, and Disneynature’s SEA LIONS OF THE GALAPAGOS and GUARDIANS OF THE GALAPAGOS.

Walt Disney World Resort Brings Back V.I.Passholder Days for Summer 2025

By

Sara

-

April 16, 2025

V.I.Passholder Days Return to Walt Disney World for Summer 2025

Walt Disney World has officially announced the return of its popular V.I.Passholder Summer Days for 2025. This annual event, exclusively for Annual Passholders, will take place from May 14th to July 31st, 2025, promising a range of limited-time discounts and unique experiences. While specific benefits and offerings for this year’s V.I.Passholder Summer Days are yet to be revealed, Disney advises passholders to “stay tuned” for upcoming announcements.

Walt Disney World Resort Brings Back V.I.Passholder Days for Summer 2025

The 2024 V.I.Passholder Days provided valuable benefits to Annual Passholders. These included access to an exclusive, air-conditioned lounge within EPCOT’s Morocco Pavilion (Restaurant Marrakesh), complete with refreshments and charging stations. Passholders also received complimentary commemorative buttons and a significant 20% discount on online merchandise at DisneyStore.com via a linked account and promo code.

Although the specific perks for the 2025 V.I.Passholder Summer Days are yet to be announced, the event’s extended duration suggests a similar range of offerings can be expected.

Will you be visiting Walt Disney World during V.I.Passholder Days this year?

Hong Kong Disneyland Gears Up for “Friendtastic” – Its Biggest Parade Ever!

By

Sara

-

April 16, 2025

Get Ready for “Friendtastic”! Hong Kong Disneyland’s Biggest Parade Yet

As part of its 20th anniversary festivities, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort proudly presents the “Friendtastic!” Parade, the most expansive daytime parade ever seen at the park. This energetic procession will invigorate Main Street, U.S.A., creating an empowering and joyful atmosphere filled with spectacular performances and catchy tunes.

Tonight, Disney Parks shared a first look at the new parade and 11 brand-new floats that will be featured.

Hong Kong Disneyland Gears Up for "Friendtastic" - Its Biggest Parade Ever!

Leading the “Friendtastic!” Parade is a float carrying Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, and Goofy, adorned with enormous flowers inspired by Hong Kong’s Bauhinia. As you can see in the photo above, Mickey will be drumming along with the parade music!

Next up is the Zootopia float which will feature characters from the beloved film. Following close behind the float will be Officer Clawhauser making his debut.

Following Zootopia is the Big Hero 6 float. Superhero Baymax makes up a majority of the float with Hiro Hamada riding on top.

Three smaller Pixar-themed floats are up next. A Toy Story float in the design of RC carries Woody and Buzz Lightyear. Next, a Monsters Inc. float featuring Sulley, Mike Wazowski, and Boo can be seen. And bringing up the rear of that group is the Turning Red float with Red Panda Mei making her debut.

Two more Pixar-themed floats come next. Joy and Sadness, a couple of our favorite emotions from Disney-Pixar’s Inside Out, stand atop a float of memory orbs. Behind them, Carl Fredricksen and Russell from the animated film, Up, ride on a Spirit of Adventure float.

One of the most magical families is also getting a float in this new parade! The family Madrigal and their home from Encanto make up the next float. Isabella can be seen swinging on floral vines while Mirabel waves from a balcony.

Following the Pixar-themed floats will be a beautiful float featuring Duffy and his friends! The characters can be seen on a bridge over some water, in a tree house, and on grassy areas.

Finishing off the parade is the Castle of Magical Dreams float. Drawing inspiration from the park’s existing icon showcasing Disney Princesses such as Snow White, Belle, Jasmine, and Rapunzel, the parade further celebrates the powerful queens Anna and Elsa from Frozen.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Disney Moments HK (@disneymoments.hk)

With Mickey’s lively drumbeats, Hong Kong’s signature Bauhinia blossoms adorning the floats, and the vibrant spectrum of the performers’ attire, every sensory detail promises to deliver an unparalleled magical party experience!

Disney Park Style Just Got Even Cuter With These Disneyland and Disney World Skorts!

By

Ana Leal

-

April 16, 2025

Disney Park Style Just Got Even Cuter With These Disneyland and Disney World Skorts!

Wanna bring a little bit of that park magic into your everyday wardrobe? Well, get ready to do a happy dance because the Disney Store online has just dropped some seriously cute skorts that are perfect for showing off your love for the Mouse!

For just $39.99 each, these are a total steal! Head on over to the Disney Store online and treat yourself.

First up, for all you West Coast besties, we’ve got the Disneyland skort! Seriously comfy is an understatement with this one. Made with a stretchy polyester and spandex blend and featuring some nice deep pleats, this skort is practically begging to be worn on those hot summer days strolling down Main Street, U.S.A. But even when you’re back home wishing you were munching on a churro, this skort will bring a smile to your face. It’s got this big ol’ Disneyland “D” right on it, and guess what? Sleeping Beauty Castle is part of the design! How adorable is that? You’ll be feeling those Disneyland vibes wherever you go.

Now, for all you East Coast enthusiasts, don’t think we forgot about you! The Walt Disney World skort is here to bring that Orlando sunshine into your closet. Just like its Disneyland counterpart, this one’s made for comfort with that same awesome stretchy material and those handy pleats. Perfect for tackling those Florida heat waves while you’re hopping between parks!

This skort has a super fun design too. Right on the front, you’ve got Mickey’s glove proudly holding up the Walt Disney World logo. And if that wasn’t enough Disney magic for ya, it also reminds everyone that WDW is the place “Where dreams come true.” Seriously, how sweet is that?

So whether your heart belongs to the original park in California or the sprawling magic of Florida, you can now snag a super cute and comfy skort to show off your Disney love. Trust me, your wardrobe will thank you, and you’ll be ready for your next park adventure in style!

Credit: Disney Store

Think Pink! New Disneyland and Disney World Tees Have Arrived!

By

Ana Leal

-

April 16, 2025

Think Pink! New Disneyland and Disney World Tees Have Arrived!

OMG, you guys! Get ready to add a serious pop of pink to your Disney wardrobe because the Disney Store just dropped the cutest new tees, and we are obsessed!

Whether you’re a die-hard Disneyland fan or your heart belongs to Disney World, there’s a perfect pink tee just waiting for you. And the best part? They’re both online right now for just $29.99!

First up, for all you East Coast Disney lovers, feast your eyes on the Walt Disney World “A World of Magic & Imagination” tee! This baby is a total celebration of everything we adore about WDW, which, let’s be real, has been bringing the magic since way back in ’71.

The back of the shirt features the iconic Cinderella Castle chilling amongst some palm trees, and it has the sweetest little invite saying, “A place where magic is discovered around every corner and countless memories are made.” Seriously, could it be any more perfect? And on the front? A super cute pink “D” embroidered right there, so you can show off your Disney love coming or going.

Now, West Coast besties, don’t think they forgot about you! The Disneyland “The Land of Happiness and Imagination” tee is here to spread some sunshine. This one pays tribute to the OG park, Disneyland, which has been the happiest place on Earth since ’55. The back shows off the dreamy Sleeping Beauty Castle, and just like its WDW counterpart, it has that adorable message: “A place where magic is discovered around every corner and countless memories are made.”

Seriously, it gives you all the feels! And of course, it wouldn’t be complete without that signature pink “D” embroidered on the front.

So, whether you’re planning your next park trip or just want to bring a little Disney magic to your everyday, these pink tees are a must-have. At $29.99 each and available online at the Disney Store, you can snag one (or both, we won’t judge!) without even leaving your couch. Go on, treat yourself to a little bit of Disney happiness!

Credit: Disney Store

SQUIRREL! Oh Wait, It’s the Snuggliest Dug Weighted Plush Ever!

By

Ana Leal

-

April 16, 2025

SQUIRREL! Oh Wait, It’s the Snuggliest Dug Weighted Plush Ever!

You know Dug, right? That super sweet golden retriever who just wants to be your pal? Well, guess what? You can bring him home in the cuddliest way possible! The Disney Store online just dropped a Dug Weighted Plush, and trust me, you’re gonna want to get your paws on this one.

Seriously, this isn’t your average stuffed animal. This Dug is extra special because he’s got this removable weighted pouch inside. Think of it like a gentle hug that just melts away stress. For $39.99, you can snag this super soft and snuggly dude online right now.

I’m telling you, a good squeeze from this Dug is probably better than a lot of things in life. Go on, treat yourself to some extra comfort – you deserve it!

Credit: Disney Store

Pop the Magic: The Adorable Disney Popcorn Bucket Ornaments Have Arrived!

By

Ana Leal

-

April 16, 2025

Pop the Magic: The Adorable Disney Popcorn Bucket Ornaments Have Arrived!

You know those ridiculously cute popcorn buckets you just have to snag every time you hit up the parks? Well, get ready to squeal because now you can hang ’em on your tree! Yep, Disney’s dropped a line of miniature ornament versions of some of their most iconic popcorn buckets, and they are seriously adorable.

Each of these little Disney popcorn bucket ornaments will set you back $29.99, and you can snag ’em right now at Magic Kingdom or online at the Disney Store.

First up, we’ve got Elliott from Pete’s Dragon, looking all glowy and sweet just like in the Main Street Electrical Parade. But get this – you can actually press his back and the “popcorn” inside lights up along with his spots! How cool is that?

Then there’s our little green buddy, an Alien from Toy Story! This dude looks like he’s been hitting the snack bar hard, ’cause his mouth opens up to show a bunch of sparkly, light-up “popcorn.” Seriously, the detail on these things is wild.

Of course, you can’t forget the classic Mickey balloon! This ornament is a buttery yellow cutie and even has a spring-loaded back that pops open to reveal – you guessed it – light-up “popcorn.” It’s proof that sometimes, when balloons “pop,” it’s a good thing!

For all you fairytale lovers, the Pumpkin Coach is here! Cinderella’s peeking out, and the whole carriage is filled with “popcorn” that lights up with the press of a button. It even has a tiny little handle! Talk about magical.

And last but not least, for the Star Wars crew, it’s R2-D2! Turns out, what’s inside this trusty droid (at least in ornament form) is shimmering “popcorn.” Lift his dome to see it, and press his front vents to make it glow.

Seriously, if you’re a Disney collector or just love a bit of park magic in your home, you gotta check these out. They’re gonna be pop-ular, for sure!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)