Universal Orlando’s New Improvement District Nearly Triples In Size

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June 12, 2024

Universal Orlando Improvement District Increases Dramatically in Size

To say the creative and construction teams at Universal Orlando Resort have been busy lately would be an understatement. Construction on the all-new Epic Universe theme park is well underway, the Epic Universe preview center is slated to open to guests in CityWalk tomorrow, DreamWorks Land is in technical rehearsals ahead of an official opening this week, an all-new nighttime show on Hogwarts Castle and the CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular lagoon show both also debut this week, and a new parade will kick off at Universal Studios Florida in July.

**The original site plan for the Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District**

The updated, expanded site plan for the Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District — **The original site plan for the Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District**

These developments mark significant achievements for Universal, yet they seemingly represent the beginning of Universal’s extensive plans for expanding Universal Orlando Resort. According to reporting by the Orlando Business Journal, the size of the improvement district in which Epic Universe is located has just increased drastically in size, from around 700 acres to over 2,000 acres!

Universal City Development Partners Ltd., a subsidiary of Universal Orlando Resort, received approval from Orange County on May 29th to increase the size of the Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District. Universal received authorization to establish the new district in October 2023, providing Universal with the means to fast-track approvals for construction projects in and around Epic Universe in a similar manner Disney enjoyed before the dissolution of the Reedy Creek Improvement District.

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Epic Universe took up most of the approved land when the district was first established, with the new expansion providing a ton of new space for Universal to construct hotels and other projects around Epic Universe. Given the size and scope of Epic Universe, it is apparent the 3 currently planned resort hotels will not be enough to accommodate guest demand. Universal now has the space to construct additional on-property hotels to keep up with the increased demand Epic Universe will bring to the resort, while also enabling both the future growth of Epic Universe as well as the development of entertainment options in the area.

Universal has pledged 13 acres of land within the district for the construction of Sunrail’s planned convention center station as well as a substantial section of the new rail corridor in the area. Universal, along with Orlando’s Right Rail partners, have also pledged to contribute and collectively guarantee $13 million in annual ticket sales for the new Sunshine Corridor through the district. This amount is the current estimated operating cost for the year-round operation of this corridor, ensuring the new Sunrail extension can operate without reliance on taxpayer funds.

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 Studios Hollywood Celebrates 4th of July with Fireworks, Performances, and Festive Décor

By

Sara

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June 11, 2024

Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates 4th of July with Fireworks, Performances, and Festive Décor

Red, white, and BOOM! Universal Studios Hollywood explodes with Independence Day spirit! Celebrate the 4th of July with a dazzling fireworks display synchronized to thrilling music, plus live entertainment, themed décor, and more!

Guests are invited to bring family and friends to celebrate Independence Day at Universal Studios Hollywood to experience the theme park’s slate of award-winning lands, rides, and attractions, then transition to the rhythmic beats of a fife and drum band, festive décor and an exhilarating fireworks display beginning at 9:00 p.m.

Find your perfect spot to celebrate! Multiple fireworks viewing locations will be available throughout the park. Keep an eye out for in-park signage to discover the best vantage points for an unforgettable show.

All festivities are included in the price of theme park admission.

Ready to plan your Independence Day festivities? Contact me today to start planning. I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a fantastic vacation!

Jennifer Lewis, Voice of Mama Odie, Sings ‘Dig a Little Deeper’ While Stuck on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

By

Sara

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June 11, 2024

Jennifer Lewis, Voice of Mama Odie, Sings ‘Dig a Little Deeper’ While Stuck on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Talk about a magical moment! Jennifer Lewis, the voice of Mama Odie in “The Princess and the Frog,” turned a wait on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom into a sing-along party, belting out “Dig A Little Deeper” with fellow riders!

Talk about going the extra mile (or should we say bayou mile)! Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom is currently hosting previews before its grand opening on June 28th. It seems actress Jennifer Lewis, the voice of Mama Odie in “The Princess and the Frog,” was filming promotional material on the ride when things took a turn. A temporary backup near the end caused a pause, but Lewis didn’t miss a beat! A video shared by The Hollywood Reporter shows her stopped next to Lari the armadillo, clapping and belting out “Dig A Little Deeper” with fellow riders. Looks like even a little downtime can’t stop the magic (and the music) at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!

While new rides can experience temporary pauses during previews, this heartwarming display by Lewis proves the magic is already flowing at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. The attraction features Mama Odie throughout the ride, both on screens and through audio-animatronics, further immersing guests in the world of “The Princess and the Frog.”

Mama Odie voice actress Jenifer Lewis sings “Dig a Little Deeper” with fans while they wait to disembark on #TianasBayouAdventure pic.twitter.com/Kda5hkzP5D
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) June 10, 2024

Dreaming of a magical Disney vacation? Let me sprinkle some pixie dust on your plans! As your Disney vacation specialist, I can transform your trip from overwhelming to unforgettable. I’ll navigate the details, score you the best options for hotels, tickets, and ensure your entire adventure is stress-free and filled with pure Disney joy.

Joy from Inside Out Meet & Greet Opens at Hollywood Studios

By

Sara

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June 11, 2024

Joy from Inside Out Meet & Greet Opens at Hollywood Studios

Get ready for some joy! Joy from Inside Out has replaced Frozone in a brand new meet and greet experience at Pixar Plaza in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Pixar Plaza has undergone a cheerful transformation! The spot where Frozone used to meet guests is now adorned with a vibrant “Inside Out” mural. Gone is the icy backdrop, replaced by a canvas of dark blue featuring pops of yellow, red, and light blue circles. Don’t worry, Frozone fans, he might just be greeting guests in a different corner of Pixar Plaza!

This isn’t Joy’s first Disney meet and greet! Before brightening up Pixar Plaza, she used to charm guests at EPCOT’s Imagination! Pavilion in front of an Imagination Land backdrop. Sadly, that meet and greet closed its doors a month ago. But even earlier Disney fans might remember meeting both Joy and Sadness together at the now-defunct EPCOT Character Spot.

The excitement is building for “Inside Out 2”! Joy’s new meet and greet opens just ahead of the sequel’s release, marking nine years since the first film. While all the emotions are back, some will sound a little different. Get ready to meet new faces like Anxiety, voiced by Maya Hawke, as Riley navigates the ups and downs of her teenage years in “Inside Out 2”.

Catch your favorite Pixar pals near the Toy Story Land entrance in Pixar Plaza! They’re there to meet and greet from 9 am to 5 pm.

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Dreaming of a magical Disney vacation? Let me sprinkle some pixie dust on your plans! As your Disney vacation specialist, I can transform your trip from overwhelming to unforgettable. I’ll navigate the details, score you the best options for hotels, tickets, and ensure your entire adventure is stress-free and filled with pure Disney joy.

Surf’s Up with Lilo and Stitch Pisa Bracelets from BaubleBar!

By

Ana Leal

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June 11, 2024

Surf’s Up with Lilo and Stitch Pisa Bracelets from BaubleBar!

Get ready to add a touch of Hawaiian sunshine to your wrist with the adorable new Lilo and Stitch Pisa Bracelets from BaubleBar. These aren’t your average friendship bracelets, they’re a fashionable twist on a classic, featuring everyone’s favorite alien experiment and his quirky human bestie.

Head over to BaubleBar.com and make a splash with these must-have summer accessories!

For just $36 each, you can snag either design:

Lilo Catching Waves: This bracelet showcases Lilo rocking some cool shades and enjoying a refreshing scoop of ice cream – the perfect symbol of summer fun!
Stitch in Paradise: Let Stitch bring a mischievous grin to your outfit with this design featuring the blue experiment decked out in a tropical Hawaiian shirt and shades.

Both bracelets are crafted from gleaming gold-plated brass and boast charming enamel accents that bring Lilo & Stitch’s playful personalities to life. The easy slip-on design makes stacking a breeze, so you can create a personalized combination that reflects your unique style.

Whether you’re a longtime Lilo & Stitch devotee or just love a touch of whimsical charm, these Pisa Bracelets are the perfect way to add a bit of ʻohana spirit to your everyday look.

Credit: BaubleBar

Cowabunga, Cuz! Stitch Disney Surfer Earrings Hit the Waves at BaubleBar!

By

Ana Leal

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June 11, 2024

Cowabunga, Cuz! Stitch Disney Surfer Earrings Hit the Waves at BaubleBar!

Calling all Lilo & Stitch fans and beach babes alike! BaubleBar’s latest drop is a wave of adorable nostalgia, featuring our favorite mischievous experiment, Stitch, catching a radical ride. These aren’t your average earrings, they’re a tidal wave of fun and adventure, ready to add a touch of Disney magic to your everyday look.

So ditch the boring studs and add a splash of playful personality to your outfit with these charming Stitch Surfer earrings. Head over to BaubleBar.com to snag your pair today and let the good vibes flow!

For $48, you can snag a pair of these lightweight and vibrant Stitch earrings. Crafted from gleaming gold-plated brass and decorated with colorful enamel, they showcase Stitch shredding the gnar on his very own surfboard. Whether you’re daydreaming of sandy beaches or channeling your inner island girl, these earrings are the perfect reminder to embrace the fun and live life to the fullest, just like Stitch.

Crafted with comfort in mind, these earrings are lightweight and ideal for everyday wear. They’re the perfect conversation starter, guaranteed to elicit compliments and knowing smiles from fellow Disney enthusiasts.

Credit: BaubleBar

Take Flight with the Up House Earrings by BaubleBar at Disney Store!

By

Ana Leal

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June 11, 2024

Take Flight with the Up House Earrings by BaubleBar at Disney Store!

Calling all adventurers! Set your sights on the horizon with the adorable and whimsical Up House Earrings by BaubleBar, now available online at Disney Store! These charming dangle earrings capture the spirit of Pixar’s beloved film Up in a way that’s both heartwarming and stylish.

For just $50, you can add a touch of magic to your everyday look. The earrings feature a detailed miniature replica of Carl Fredricksen’s iconic house, complete with vibrant enamel cloisonné detailing. They’re crafted from brass and accented with sparkling cubic zirconia for a touch of elegance. But the real showstoppers are the colorful acrylic balloons that seem to lift the house right off your ears, just like in the movie! Finished in a classic goldtone, these Up House Earrings are the perfect accessory for any Disney fan.

So don’t miss your chance to take flight with this delightful piece of Disney memorabilia. Head over to the Disney Store online now and add the Up House Earrings to your collection! They’re sure to become a treasured keepsake for any fan of Up.

Credit: Disney Store

Pizza Planet Truck Popcorn Bucket Arrives at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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June 11, 2024

Pizza-Planet-Truck-Popcorn-Bucket-Arrives-at-Disneys-Hollywood-Studios-1

Disney enthusiasts and Pixar fans rejoice! The Alien Pizza Planet truck popcorn bucket, which debuted at Disneyland Resort during Pixar Fest 2024, has now made its way to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This unique collectible is designed to mirror the iconic Pizza Planet delivery truck that first captured hearts in “Toy Story” and has since become a recurring element in nearly every Pixar film.

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Crafted from plastic, the bucket features the distinctive truck design complete with several little green men peering out of the truck bed windows. A standout feature of this popcorn bucket is the removable figure of a little green man seated in the front, dressed in a Pizza Planet uniform and holding a pizza box.

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The roof of the truck bed cleverly opens up, allowing it to be filled with popcorn—which is included with the purchase. To add to its charm, the bucket is equipped with a strap adorned in a red and white checkered pattern, interspersed with black-and-white images of the aliens, burgers, sodas, and the guards from the entrance of Pizza Planet, enhancing its appeal as a collector’s item.

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The Pizza Planet truck popcorn bucket is available in limited quantities—only two per person per transaction—at various popcorn carts throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios, while supplies last. This collectible is not just a popcorn holder; it’s a piece of Pixar history, perfect for fans looking to hold a piece of the cinematic universe that has brought them countless beloved stories.

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Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World 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 Disney 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 Disney vacation package through me!

Raise a Glass to the Magic! Disney Annual Passholder Exclusive Arribas Brothers Drinkware Available at Crystal Arts!

By

Ana Leal

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June 11, 2024

Raise a Glass to the Magic! Disney Annual Passholder Exclusive Arribas Brothers Drinkware Available at Crystal Arts!

Calling all Disney Annual Passholders! Get ready to toast the magic with a brand new collection of drinkware designed just for you. Arribas Brothers, the renowned glass artists behind some of the most coveted Disney souvenirs, have crafted a set of stunning glasses available exclusively at Crystal Arts in Magic Kingdom.

This isn’t your average souvenir shop find. Each glass in the collection features the iconic D-shaped Annual Passholder logo, with Mickey Mouse himself taking center stage. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual beverage enthusiast, there’s a perfect glass for you to choose from:

Elegant Stemmed Glass ($24): Add a touch of sophistication to your next toast with this beautiful stemmed glass. Perfect for savoring a fine wine or celebrating a special occasion.
Classic Old Fashioned Glass ($14): Enjoy your favorite iced tea, lemonade, or even a Mickey Mouse-inspired cocktail in this timeless old-fashioned glass.
Cool Character Cooler Glass ($14): Keep your drinks refreshingly cold on a hot park day with this convenient cooler glass.

All three glasses are etched with the Annual Passholder logo, making them a treasured collectible and a constant reminder of your Disney Park adventures.

So head over to Crystal Arts in Magic Kingdom and raise a glass to the magic with this exclusive Annual Passholder drinkware collection by Arribas Brothers! Cheers!

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Gear Up for All-New Emotions with Inside Out 2 Merchandise!

By

Ana Leal

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June 11, 2024

Gear Up for All-New Emotions with Inside Out 2 Merchandise!

Get ready to celebrate the release of Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 with a whole new wave of merchandise inspired by Riley’s teenage emotions! The movie hits theaters nationwide this Friday, June 14th, and these exciting products will help you express yourself along with your favorite characters.

FLIP-A-MOOD REVERSIBLE PLUSH BY JUSTPLAY – $11.99

Experience two emotions in one with these adorable reversible plushies! Choose between Joy and Sadness, or Fear and Anxiety. The super-soft plush flips inside out to reveal a whole new feeling.

INSIDE OUT 2 FUNKO – $12

Growing up brings complex emotions, and Funko has captured them all! This POP! collection features figures of Joy, Anxiety, Envy on a Memory Orb, Ennui, and Embarrassment. Add them all to your collection!

INSIDE OUT 2 MOOD CUBES LEGO SET – $34.99

This buildable set lets you create two Mood Cubes, perfect for storing your treasures. Each cube comes with nine mood plates to customize your emotions, plus Joy and Anxiety mini-dolls, Foreman and Margie mind worker figures, and a display stand.

INSIDE OUT 2 3 OF A KIND 3 STEP BARRIER BOOST ROUTINE BY BUBBLE SKINCARE – $34

Inspired by Inside Out 2, this 3-step skincare routine from Bubble helps you face your emotions with confidence. The Fresh Start cleanser refreshes your skin, while Water Slide hydrates, and Cloud Surf provides a mattifying moisturizer. Keep your skin balanced and ready for anything, just like Riley!

This is just a peek at the amazing Inside Out 2 merchandise available. With apparel, accessories, and more to choose from, there’s something for every fan! So head out to your favorite retailer and celebrate the world of emotions with Inside Out 2!

Credit: Disney

Disney Adds Virtual Queue for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Previews at Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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June 11, 2024

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Disney has introduced a Virtual Queue for the anticipated previews of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom, accessible via the My Disney Experience app. The previews, exclusive to Annual Passholders, are set for June 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, and 20. To participate, Passholders must secure a park reservation for Magic Kingdom on one of these dates and can join the Virtual Queue at 7:00 am on the day of their visit. Alternatively, those with a reservation at any Disney theme park on a preview date can join a second Virtual Queue at 1:00 pm.

Eligible Passholders are alloted two opportunities to join the queue each day of the previews. The 7:00 am queue is available for Passholders with a Magic Kingdom reservation for that specific day. The 1:00 pm queue is accessible to those with reservations at any Disney theme park, provided they enter the reserved park before heading to Magic Kingdom. Note on June 13, 14, 17, 18, and 20, Passholders cannot enter Magic Kingdom without a reservation until after 2:00 PM.

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It’s important to note that joining the Virtual Queue does not guarantee entry to the attraction preview as availability is limited. Each Passholder can request to join the Virtual Queue once per day, and may hold boarding groups for both the preview and another attraction simultaneously. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will officially open to all guests on June 28, 2024.

Universal Orlando Resort’s Unveils New Butterbeer Cart Collectible

By

Chris B

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June 11, 2024

Magic awaits at Universal Orlando Resort, where “Harry Potter” fans have the unique opportunity to bring home a piece of the wizarding world. The resort is now offering a meticulously crafted Butterbeer cart bucket, filled with delicious Butterbeer candies, inspired by the enchanting Butterbeer carts at Universal Studios Beijing

This new souvenir can be found at Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, Honeydukes Candy Shop in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and at Island Merchantile in Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

The design of the Butterbeer features a bench seat with a footrest on the front, below a prominent “Butterbeer” sign in gold lettering. Adding to its authenticity, the cart has spinning wheels, a ladder descending from the seat, and even a fake door on the side that flips up to reveal more ‘barrels’ of Butterbeer. The top of the bucket opens to unveil the Butterbeer candies contained within, which can later be used to store your own candy selection.

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Priced at $44, this Butterbeer is a portable piece of the magical universe that you can take home and display with the rest of your Wizarding World collection. Whether you’re adding it to your Harry Potter collection or gifting it to a fellow fan, this unique item from Universal Orlando Resort is sure to bring a little more magic into your life.