Universal Orlando Hosting Epic Universe Soft Opening for Passholders

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October 22, 2024

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Epic Universe to Host a Soft Opening for Universal Orlando Passholders

Universal Orlando Resort has announced that its Annual Passholders will have the exclusive opportunity to experience Epic Universe, its highly anticipated fourth theme park, during a soft opening period before it officially opens to the general public on May 22, 2025.

This news was shared in communications to Passholders regarding Epic Universe tickets, with Universal stating that details about the Passholder soft opening will be revealed “in the coming months.”

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Soft openings are a common practice in the theme park industry, allowing a limited number of guests to experience the park before its official debut. This allows for operational testing and fine-tuning before the grand opening. While hours may be limited and not all experiences may be available during the soft opening, it offers a unique opportunity for Passholders to get an early glimpse of Epic Universe.

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Tickets and Reservations

Multi-day Universal Orlando Resort tickets that include access to Epic Universe went on sale on October 22nd. Passholders will have priority access to purchase single-day tickets starting on October 24th.

Reservations are also now open for the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, which is connected to Epic Universe and offers a dedicated entrance for hotel guests.

Epic Universe Lands

Epic Universe will feature five immersive lands:

Dark Universe (Universal Monsters)
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Super Nintendo World
Celestial Park

Stay Tuned

Universal Orlando is expected to release more details about the Passholder soft opening in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates on dates, times, and how to secure your spot for this exclusive preview of Epic Universe.

Ticket Pricing Revealed for Epic Universe at Universal Orlando 1

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there a single day option for guests wanting to visit Universal Epic Universe?
A: During this initial phase of Universal Epic Universe-inclusive tickets, we are currently only offering multi-day tickets for 3-Days or longer that include one-day admission to Universal Epic Universe. Additional product offerings — including single day for Universal Epic Universe — will be launched at a later date before the park opens.

Q: Is there a two-day option for guests wanting to visit Universal Epic Universe?
A: During this initial phase of Universal Epic Universe-inclusive tickets, we are currently only offering multi-day tickets for 3-Days or longer that include one-day admission to Universal Epic Universe. Additional product offerings — including 2-Day options that provide a day at either Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, or Universal Volcano Bay and a day at Universal Epic Universe — will be launched at a later date before the park opens.

Q: Are there Florida Resident discounted tickets available for Universal Epic Universe?
A: While this initial phase of Universal Epic Universe-inclusive tickets launch does not include Florida Resident discounted tickets, we will offer Florida Resident ticket options and additional product offerings – for Epic Universe at a later date.

Q: Do guests need to specify the date that they are visiting Universal Epic Universe when purchasing a multi-day ticket for 3-days or longer?
A: No, when purchasing the current multi-day ticket options that include one-day admission to Universal Epic Universe, you will not need to specify the date that you plan to visit Epic Universe. You’ll only need to indicate the first date that you would like your overall ticket to be valid, and you will be able to visit any of the parks beginning on that date.

Q: Are guests guaranteed to be able to visit Universal Epic Universe with their ticket?
A: We plan to manage attendance at Universal Epic Universe to ensure we’re providing the best possible experience for our guests. As part of this process, ticket inventory and capacity will be controlled to allow each guest who purchases an Epic Universe-inclusive ticket to visit the park for one day during the course of the validity window of their ticket.

Q: Can guests buy a ticket to visit Universal Epic Universe for more than one day of their visit?
A: During this initial phase of Universal Epic Universe-inclusive tickets, guests are only able to purchase multi-day tickets for 3-Days or longer that include one-day admission to Universal Epic Universe. Additional product offerings — including single-day and two-day tickets for Universal Epic Universe — will be launched at a later date before the park opens.

Q: Do all Universal Orlando tickets include Universal Epic Universe?
A: During this initial phase, all three-, four- and five-day tickets purchased for visits on or after the grand opening date of Universal Epic Universe will include one-day access to the new theme park. One-day and two-day tickets currently do not include access to Universal Epic Universe but are still available for purchase for guests who wish to enjoy our existing theme parks.

Additional Universal Epic Universe-inclusive ticket products – including one-day and two-day tickets, Universal Express and more – will be available in the coming months and will go on sale before the park opens.

Q: Are there Express Pass products available for Universal Epic Universe?
A: Express Passes for Universal Epic Universe will be launched at a later date before the park opens. More details will be announced closer to the launch of these products.

Q: Are there VIP Tours available for Universal Epic Universe?
A: VIP Tour experiences that include Universal Epic Universe will be launched at a later date before the park opens. More details will be announced closer to the launch of these products.

Q: Are there My Universal Photo products available for Universal Epic Universe?
A: My Universal Photo products that include Universal Epic Universe will be launched at a later date before the park opens. More details will be announced closer to the launch of these products.

Q: Will Early Park Admission be offered at Universal Epic Universe?
A: Yes, Early Park Admission for Universal hotel guests will expand to include Universal Epic Universe from the park’s Grand Opening date onward. Valid theme park admission is required and select attractions are included. More information about Early Park Admission and entitlements is available here.

Q: Do I need a park admission ticket to enter Celestial Park?
A: Yes, Celestial Park is one of the five imaginative worlds of Universal Epic Universe. Guests will be able to explore Celestial Park as part of their admission to Universal Epic Universe.

Q: Will there be transportation available between Universal Epic Universe and Universal Studios Florida/Universal Islands of Adventure/Universal Volcano Bay/Universal CityWalk?
A: Yes, guests will be able to take advantage of complimentary shuttle bus transportation to venture between Universal Epic Universe and Universal’s existing theme parks and CityWalk.

Starbucks Releases New “Wicked” Merchandise Collection

By

Catherine

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October 22, 2024

Starbucks Conjures Up Wicked Magic with New Merchandise

Are you ready to step into the magical world of Oz? Starbucks has teamed up with Universal Pictures to bring the enchanting story of Wicked to life through a new collection of drinkware and Starbucks Cards. These limited-edition items are sure to be a hit for fans of the classic story and anyone who loves a touch of whimsy.

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Starting November 7, participating Starbucks stores will be overflowing with vibrant shades of pink, green, and gold. From cold cups and tumblers to keychains and more, the collection showcases the iconic characters of Elphaba and Glinda, as well as the magical Emerald City.

Take a look at the beautiful bubbly Glinda’s Collection!

Prism Cold Cup with Wand Straw Topper (24 oz.) & Keychain: Channel your inner Glinda with this prismatic cold cup, available with or without a matching keychain, featuring a straw topper inspired by her dazzling wand.

Pink Glitter Cold Cup (24 oz.): Add a touch of sparkle to your drinks with this elegant pink glitter cold cup.

Pearl Tumbler with “G” Charm (16 oz.): This glossy tumbler features floral designs and a “G” charm, perfect for Glinda fans who want to sip in style.

Check out the Wickedly cool Elphaba’s Collection!

Pleated Glow-in-the-Dark Cold Cup with Broom Straw Topper (24 oz.) & Keychain: Embrace your inner Wicked Witch with this bold and defiant cold cup, featuring a broom stick straw topper and the iconic hat of Elphaba. It also glows in the dark!

Defy Gravity Glow-in-the-Dark Cold Cup (24 oz.): This daring glow-in-the-dark cold cup is perfect for Elphaba fans who want to defy gravity and expectations.

Glow-in-the-Dark Tumbler with Grimmerie Charm (16 oz.): Inspired by the magical Grimmerie, this tumbler is sure to enchant any beverage and add a touch of mystery to your day.

Take a trip to the Emerald City with these dazzling drinkware items!

Gemstone Cold Cup with Emerald City Straw Topper (24 oz.) & Keychain: This cold cup, with a hot air balloon straw topper, transports any Wicked fan to the land of Oz with each sip.

Metallic Green Cold Cup (24 oz.): The treasured Emerald City shines against a backdrop of green and gold in this metallic cold cup.

Gold Crackle Cold Cup with Oz Charm (16 oz.): This shimmering cold cup celebrates the Land of Oz.

Other Magical Finds:

Pink & Green Swirl Cold Cup (24 oz.) & Keychain: This cold cup blends the essence of both Glinda and Elphaba, available exclusively at Starbucks stores inside Target locations.

Checkered Cold Cup (24 oz.): This pink and green checkered cold cup features silhouettes of Glinda and Elphaba, also available exclusively at Target locations.

Wicked Tumbler (16 oz.): This new tumbler is perfect for fans who want to sip at the movies or on the go.

Wicked Discovery Series Collection: This collection of merchandise features Ozian locations like Munchkinland, Emerald City, and Shiz University, available exclusively at Universal Theme parks and Starbucks stores.

Starbucks Cards:

Emerald City Card: This card features the iconic Emerald City and is available starting October 22.
Grimmerie-Inspired Card: This gold-hued card doubles as a keychain and requires a minimum load of $50.

So many adorable cups to get! Which drinkware will you be purchasing?!

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Moana-Themed Splash Pad Unveiled at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

By

Chip

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October 22, 2024

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Disney Shares Behind-the-Scenes Look at Moana-Themed Splash Pad at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Disney has offered a first look at the new Moana-themed splash pad coming to the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

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Moana Splash Pad

The splash pad, set to open on December 17th, 2024, features a life-size sculpture of Moana on her outrigger canoe, positioned to face the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom.

The detailed sculpture showcases Moana wearing her iconic necklace holding the heart of Te Fiti. It’s a captivating centerpiece for the splash pad, which promises to be a fun and interactive space for young guests.

The Island Tower will incorporate other “Moana” theming throughout, including manta ray elements inspired by Grandma Tala in the resort’s porte cochere.

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This new addition complements the existing Polynesian theme of the resort, adding a touch of adventure and magic for families and Disney fans of all ages.

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New! Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Make a reservation for stays that begin on December 17, 2024, at Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows—a new addition brimming with island-inspired spaces that bring the adventurous spirit of Polynesia to life.

Enjoy exclusive access to 4 tropical terrace gardens that pay homage to the islands of Bora Bora, Hawai’i, Samoa, and Fiji. And delight in the zero-entry Cove Pool that offers you an opportunity to relax in style. In addition, your little ones can play at Moana’s Voyage—a whimsical, new splash area inspired by Disney’s beloved movie Moana, featuring life-size sculptures of Moana and her iconic canoe.

With unique, homelike accommodations that sleep up to 9, you’ll love this tropical escape, nestled in the midst of the magic.

Port Orleans French Quarter Room Refurbishments Extended at Disney World

By

Chip

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October 22, 2024

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Room Refurbishment Extended into 2025

The refurbishment of guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, which began in May, has been extended into Spring 2025. The project was initially slated for completion in November 2024.

Here is the official word from the Disney World website:

From May 2024 through Spring 2025, some Guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter will be under refurbishment. Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours. Most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.

The updated rooms feature a more vibrant design, incorporating details inspired by New Orleans, “The Princess and the Frog,” and Mardi Gras. Notable changes include the replacement of the standard brown furniture with a blue dresser and headboards, as well as the addition of colorful wall designs and modern amenities like “Hey Disney” and multiple USB and USB-C outlets.

Despite the extended refurbishment, guests can still enjoy the recently renovated Doubloon Lagoon pool, Aquatic Play Area, and Mardi Grogs pool bar. These enhancements, completed earlier this year, offer a refreshing and immersive experience for guests of all ages.

Back to the Future Coming to Universal Fan Fest Nights

By

Chris B

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October 22, 2024

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More details have been released about the Back to the Future offerings at Universal Fan Fest Nights

Great Scott! Universal Studios Hollywood has revealed exciting details about the highly anticipated Universal Fan Fest Nights, and Back to the Future fans are in for a treat. On select nights from April 25 to May 18, 2025, guests can step back in time and immerse themselves in Hill Valley, 1955, with an exclusive after-hours experience at Courthouse Square, the iconic location featured in the beloved film trilogy.

Universal Studios took to X (formerly Twitter) to tease the experience, announcing that guests will get the chance to explore Hill Valley like never before. The immersive event promises meet-and-greets with fan-favorite characters from Back to the Future, plus even more surprises yet to be revealed. Typically seen on the World-Famous Studio Tour, Courthouse Square will become the setting for this once-in-a-lifetime event, making it a must-see for fans of the classic time-traveling adventure.

Mark your calendars and get ready to “Go Back to the Future” at Universal Fan Fest Nights for an unforgettable journey into one of the most iconic cinematic worlds ever created!

Tampa Bay Rays Exploring the Possibility of Playing 2025 Season at Walt Disney World

By

Chris B

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October 22, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays Exploring the Possibility of Playing 2025 Season at Walt Disney World 1

In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which caused severe damage to Tropicana Field, the Tampa Bay Rays are searching for a temporary home for the 2025 season. One intriguing possibility that is being considered is Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World, where the Rays have played before, including spring training games according to reporting by the Tampa Bay Times.

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With the roof at Tropicana Field shredded and other parts of the stadium compromised, the Rays are considering various locations for next season. The ESPN complex, located just outside Orlando, is emerging as a strong option. Though it would require coordination with Disney’s existing event schedule, the facility offers familiarity for the team and could require fewer upgrades compared to other venues.

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While nothing has been finalized, fans might see the Rays playing at the most magical place on earth as early as March 2025.

Hotel Reservations Now Available Universal Helios Grand Hotel

By

Chris B

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October 22, 2024

Helios Grand Hotel Opening in 2025 at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe front

Hotel Reservations Now Available for Universal Helios Grand Hotel – Stay Inside Epic Universe!

Exciting news for theme park fans! Reservations are now open for Universal Helios Grand Hotel, the stunning in-park hotel at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, with stays available from May 22, 2025, through January 3, 2026. Be among the first to experience this luxurious Mediterranean-inspired hotel, which offers an exclusive entrance to Epic Universe and a host of amenities designed to make your stay extraordinary.

Guests can now book their stay for Epic Universe’s grand opening weekend with a two-night minimum requirement. Pricing starts at $293 per night, allowing you to immerse yourself in the celestial beauty and elegance of this sunlit sanctuary, rising above the waters of Celestial Park.

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A Luxurious Stay in the Heart of Epic Universe

Universal Helios Grand Hotel provides a Mediterranean-inspired retreat with elegant touches of celestial patterns and constellations throughout the property. Guests can enjoy world-class dining, including the al fresco Flora Taverna, which serves Mediterranean comfort foods and a full breakfast buffet, and Bar Helios, a rooftop bar offering 360-degree views of Epic Universe. After a day of excitement, relax by the zero-entry pool, enjoy a frozen cocktail from the Lotus Lagoon, or stop by Aurora Market for a quick grab-and-go snack before heading back to the fun.

Exclusive Theme Park Benefits

Staying at Universal Helios Grand Hotel comes with a range of exclusive perks. Guests enjoy Early Park Admission, allowing them to enter one of Universal’s theme parks up to an hour early. The hotel also offers free and convenient shuttle transportation between the parks and CityWalk, making it easy to explore all that Universal Orlando Resort has to offer. Plus, with your hotel key card, you can charge your purchases throughout the parks and have them delivered directly to your room, so you can stay carefree and carry-free.

Book Your Place in the Sun

Whether you’re enjoying the rooftop views, dining by the pool, or taking advantage of your dedicated entrance to Epic Universe, Universal Helios Grand Hotel promises to be the perfect home base for your 2025 theme park vacation. Don’t miss out on the chance to book your stay and experience the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in style!

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!

Universal’s Epic Universe Tickets and Packages Are Now On Sale!

By

Chris B

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October 22, 2024

Multi-Day Tickets and Resort Hotel + Ticket Packages are now available for Epic Universe, opening May 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe tickets are now on sale, marking the beginning of an exciting new era for theme park fans. As the much-anticipated park prepares to open on May 22, 2025, guests can now plan their full vacation with select multi-day tickets and packages. Epic Universe promises to expand Universal Orlando Resort’s already thrilling lineup, adding a fourth park alongside Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

Current ticket options include multi-day passes that grant access to all of Universal’s parks, with one day exclusively reserved for Epic Universe. These multi-day packages offer flexibility for families and thrill-seekers alike, making it possible to experience everything from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the all-new Celestial Park and Super Nintendo World.

Ticket prices for multi-day tickets that include Epic Universe start at $150.67 per day for adults and $147.34 per day for children. Varying lengths (including park to park) of tickets are available, however all current options only include one day at Epic Universe with per day pricing varying by date selected. The demand for these tickets is expected to be high as Epic Universe introduces an array of immersive worlds, including How to Train Your Dragon’s Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.

Confused about Epic Universe ticket options? Don’t worry-I can help! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Epic Universe tickets through me!

In addition to tickets, vacation packages are now available for those looking to bundle their Epic Universe adventure with a stay at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel. These packages allow you to combine multi-day tickets with accommodations at one of Universal’s spectacular resorts, making it easier to plan a complete getaway. Like the ticket-only options, vacation packages include multi-day access to all Universal Orlando parks, with one dedicated day for Epic Universe.

For example, a “Create Your Own Vacation Package” might include a stay at the luxurious Universal Helios Grand Hotel from May 29 to June 3, 2025, for two adults. This package, priced at $2,784.24, includes five nights in a Standard Room with 2 Queen Beds at the Helios Grand Hotel, offering exclusive benefits like direct access to Celestial Park. The package also comes with a 3-Park 4-Day Base PLUS 1-Day Universal Epic Universe Ticket, giving guests the freedom to explore Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, for 3 days while also enjoying one day at Epic Universe.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the thrills of all four parks or relax at one of Universal’s premier hotels, vacation packages make it easy to experience the best of Universal Orlando Resort. Be sure to check availability and pricing to craft the perfect Epic Universe vacation for 2025!

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Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!

runDisney Medals for the 2025 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Revealed

By

Sara

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October 22, 2024

runDisney Medals for the 2025 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Revealed

Gear up for a race weekend adventure as the runDisney 2025 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend presented by HONDA draws near. Taking place January 30 – February 2, 2025, registered participants will be immersed in epic Disney tales during a thrilling race weekend featuring yoga, four different races, two challenges, and courses through both theme parks and neighboring areas.

Disney recently shared a look at the medals the participants can receive! Let’s take a look.

Disneyland 5K

Start your race weekend on a heroic note with the 2025 Disneyland 5K presented by HONDA, hosted by Groot. Rocket through the 3.1-mile course to earn this finisher medal.

Disneyland 10K

It’s 6.2 galactically great miles for the Star Wars-themed 2025 Disneyland 10K presented by HONDA featuring Ahsoka Tano, earning you this exciting finisher medal.

Disneyland Half Marathon

Finishing out the adventurous race weekend is an enchanting escapade during the Mickey Mouse and Friends-themed 2025 Disneyland Half Marathon presented by HONDA. With Safari Mickey Mouse as your host, you’re sure to rock the 13.1-mile trek all the way to the finish line to earn this finisher medal.

Dumbo Double Dare

Two times the adventure, three times the medals! Participants going the extra mile can look forward to earning even more bling during the 2025 Dumbo Double Dare presented by HONDA. Soar through both the 2025 Disneyland 10K and Disneyland Half Marathon on pace to pick up this extra special finisher medal.

runDisney Kids Races

No bones about it, kids ages 9 and younger can enjoy some doggone, good fun during the 2025 runDisney Kids Races, hosted by Dug from Disney and Pixar’s “Up,” and earn this adorable finisher medallion.

Will you be participating in the 2025 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend?

Disneyland Reduces Performance of Fantasmic to Weekends Only

By

Sara

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October 22, 2024

Disneyland Reduces Performance of Fantasmic to Weekends Only

Disneyland Resort has reduced “Fantasmic!” performances to weekends only as the holiday season approaches, potentially as a response to the recent unionization of performers.

The nighttime spectacular returned to Disneyland in May after a fire destroyed the Maleficent dragon animatronic. The show has faced technical difficulties in recent times, including rogue fireworks and Mickey’s finger fireworks misfiring. On Saturday, July 27, the show was performed with limited pyrotechnics.

Based on the events schedule on the Disneyland Resort website, “Fantasmic!” is only available from Friday to Sunday for the foreseeable future.

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Before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the show was performed approximately 365 days a year. When the show returned in 2022, performances were reduced to weekends only during the off-season. The nighttime spectacular would still run seven days a week during peak seasons, such as the holidays, spring break, and summer.

Disneyland is currently offering “Fantasmic!” only on weekends, Friday through Sunday, as we approach the busiest time of year at the resort. However, the show will be performed every evening during the week of Thanksgiving, from November 24-30, 2024, as indicated by the “Fantasmic!” dining package schedule. The show will still feature two performances each night, at 9 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

It’s important to note that the “Fantasmic!” performers are part of the parade and character performers at Disneyland. The reduction in performances could be a potential response to the recent unionization vote by performers.

Do you enjoy watching “Fantasmic!” when you visit Disneyland?

Chick-fil-A Launching Streaming Service with New Shows & More

By

Sara

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October 22, 2024

Chick-fil-A Launching Streaming Service with New Shows & More

Rumors have been circulating since late last year that Chick-fil-A is developing its own streaming service, a claim the fast-food chain has been quick to deny. However, after getting an early look at the company’s actual plans, Fast Company is reporting that while it’s not a full-fledged streaming platform, it could be something even more significant.

In late August, Deadline reported that Chick-fil-A was actively pursuing entertainment ventures, developing a range of original content for a potential proprietary streaming platform. The fast-food company was working with several major production companies, including some of the studios, to create family-friendly shows, according to sources close to the deals. The programming was said to include animated shows, reality shows, and game shows, with budgets reaching $400,000 per half-hour episode. The entire platform was expected to launch later this year.

So what is Chick-fil-A actually releasing? The answer is an app, called Chick-fil-A Play, which will be available on November 18. It offers scripted programming that Chick-fil-A fans won’t find anywhere else, along with family-focused games, activities, and entertainment options that reflect aspects of the brand that Chick-fil-A has been diligently working on for years.

The early look we got made it clear that if the Play app reaches its full potential, it could be a source not only for a wealth of original content (like Netflix and HBO), but also original audio series (like Gimlet Media and Wondery), ebooks (like Amazon Kindle), interactive games (like Nintendo), and cooking videos (like Bon Appétit’s Instagram and all those other viral food Reels).

What will be on Chick-fil-A Play?

The cows are back! Daisy, Sarge, and Carrots welcome users to the app and then pop up in other parts of the Play universe, such as in Go Go Cow, which Dustin Britt, Chick-fil-A’s executive director of brand strategy, entertainment, and media, explained is the digital racing game the company released on its website last summer, but now with “some enhancements.” The cows also appear in their own original shorts, the company adds. (It’s a safe bet that they’ll be reprising their roles as anti-beef crusaders trying to sabotage the Circus Burger chain’s expansion plans, a theme Chick-fil-A has been developing in recent shorts.)

The app will also feature family trivia and singing games, craft activities, cooking videos called “Recipe Remixes” that put a new spin on popular Chick-fil-A menu items, a joke generator that Britt warns is filled with dad jokes, and a library that will initially include 20 e-book titles, like Kate Messner’s Over and Under the Snow and Kimberlee Gard’s The Day Punctuation Came to Town, with some interactive elements added in.

But the section known as “Watch” is what’s most likely to draw attention. This is where initial users will find seven original animated shorts, though more are planned. Two involve the cows. The rest are episodes of Chick-fil-A’s Evergreen Hills franchise, which the company has spent the past five years refining, perhaps for this exact moment.

The app also includes audio content. A brand-new series called Hidden Island follows a family that was shipwrecked during a disastrous holiday ocean adventure. (Chick-fil-A loves good holiday-themed drama.) More audio shows are scheduled to debut in 2025, including Ice Lions, based on the true story of Kenya’s only hockey team.

All of this original content, and everything else on the app, remains true to Chick-fil-A’s two-pronged business philosophy that all products must be memorable and their ingredients must include family values. This has been the corporate ethos since S. Truett Cathy founded Chick-fil-A almost 80 years ago, although the company has been working to make its reach much more inclusive lately. The app seems like a natural next step in this strategy.

Will you be downloading the Chick-fil-A Play app?

Disney World Lightning Lane Multi Pass Reaches New Highs This Week

By

Sara

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October 22, 2024

Disney World Lightning Lane Multi Pass Reaches New Highs This Week

Lightning Lane Multi Pass prices are set to increase at two Walt Disney World theme parks this week.

Lightning Lane Multi Pass prices will reach new all-time highs at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT later this week. The record-breaking prices will take effect on Friday, October 25 at EPCOT and Saturday, October 26 at Magic Kingdom.

Magic Kingdom continues to hold the title for the most expensive Lightning Lane Multi Pass prices. The current record-high price of $32 will increase to $35 on October 26, November 1, and November 10. While this is a new high for Lightning Lane Multi Passes, it remains below the record-high price for Disney Genie+.

The price hikes for Lightning Lane Multi Passes continue into next week. Disney’s Hollywood Studios will set a new record on Saturday, November 2, with prices reaching $32. This surpasses the previous record of $29. While Disney’s Animal Kingdom will maintain its record-high price of $22 for now, it’s likely that all four parks will see record-breaking prices during the upcoming holiday season.

Lightning Lane Multi Pass was introduced at Walt Disney World on July 24, 2024, replacing Disney Genie+. On the same day, Lightning Lane Single Pass replaced Individual Lightning Lane. Multiple Lightning Lane Single Pass attraction prices reached new highs earlier this month. Starting October 30, 2024, guests will have a new option: Lightning Lane Premier Pass.

Do you purchase any of the Lightning Lane passes when you visit Walt Disney World?