Universal’s Epic Universe, one of the most anticipated theme park ventures in recent memory, is inching closer to its grand debut. While current projections posted by Universal note an opening sometime in 2025, a recent revelation by Steve Tatham, the Executive Creative Director for Epic Universe at Universal Creative, suggests that the park is set to open its gates in the first half of next year!
In a recent episode of The Superbold Podcast with Fred Joyal, Steve Tatham, the Executive Creative Director for Epic Universe at Universal Creative, unveiled an array of details about Epic Universe. Tatham is an industry veteran with an impressive background spanning several decades in theme park creative ventures. At around the 2:30 mark in the podcast episode titled “Boldly Creating an Epic Universe with Steve Tatham“, Tatham began to describe Epic Universe as a major theme park spanning over 100 acres, and then revealed that Epic Universe is slated to open its gates at the beginning of next year, specifically before Summer!
It is important to note that while Tatham specifically mentioned Early 2025 as the opening time frame for Epic Universe, the official Epic Universe website still notes an opening date of 2025, with no specific timeframe in 2025 mentioned.
What are your thoughts on this updated timeframe for the opening of Epic Universe? Leave us a comment to let us know!
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!
Make a Splash with This Minnie Mouse Vacation Style Poolside Ear Headband at Loungefly!
Dreaming of a tropical getaway? Loungefly’s Minnie Mouse Vacation Style Poolside Ear Headband is the perfect accessory to channel your summer vibes! This adorable headband features die-cut ears shaped like playful pink and white pool floaties, complete with a shimmering center that reflects like sunlight on water.
At $30, it’s the perfect way to add a touch of Minnie Mouse poolside fun to your Disney wardrobe! You can order yours at Loungefly.com.
For a touch of island flair, a tropical leaf sits atop the headband’s detachable pastel pink bow. Feeling a more minimalist look? Simply remove the bow for a classic Mickey silhouette. Whether you’re poolside, strolling down Main Street, or just adding a touch of Disney magic to your day, this versatile headband is sure to turn heads.
Crafted from vegan leather (polyurethane) for comfort and style, the headband boasts additional details like appliques, PVC accents, and a touch of Loungefly magic with their embroidered logo. So dive into summer style with Loungefly’s Minnie Mouse Vacation Style Poolside Ear Headband!
Roar for Style! Loungefly Releases Limited Edition Lion King 30th Anniversary Simba Plush Backpack!
Celebrate 30 years of the beloved Lion King with Loungefly’s adorable Simba Plush Backpack! This isn’t your average bag; it’s a cuddly companion featuring everyone’s favorite future king. For $90, you can order this Lion King 30th anniversary Simba plush backpack at Loungefly.com and rock this piece wherever you go.
Simba comes to life on the front of the backpack, crafted from soft plush with embroidered details that make him irresistible to hug. A hidden zipper pocket beneath his chin offers extra storage, while his dangling legs playfully cover another zip compartment. Lift Simba’s plush paws to discover a delightful surprise, a tiny embroidered grub, a nod to his childhood adventures with Pumbaa and Timon! Finally, the 30th-anniversary logo displayed on the back adds a commemorative touch.
Whether you’re a die-hard Lion King fan or simply adore adorable accessories, this Loungefly backpack is the perfect addition to your wardrobe. So, channel your inner Simba and embrace the wild side of style!
Sweeten Your Style with the Adorable Mickey Mouse Donut Loungefly Backpack!
Calling all Disney foodies and fashionistas! Get ready to add a touch of sugary sweetness to your everyday look with the brand new Mickey Mouse Donut Loungefly Backpack, now available at the Disney Store for $88! This delightful mini backpack is the perfect way to celebrate your love for Mickey Mouse and those irresistible Disney Parks donuts.
This bag is a feast for the eyes, crafted from a durable simulated leather and adorned with an allover sprinkle print that’ll have you craving a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World. But the real star of the show is the front pocket, designed as a Mickey-shaped glazed donut! The 3D, padded vinyl construction makes it look so real, you might just reach out for a bite (don’t worry, it’s for looks only!).
With its functional features like a zip closure with double pulls, adjustable padded shoulder straps, and side slip pockets, this Loungefly isn’t just adorable, it’s practical too! The interior lining continues the donut theme with an allover Mickey icon donut print, making every peek inside a delightful surprise. Retailing for $88, this bag is the perfect way to carry your essentials in style, all while showcasing your love for Disney magic and sweet treats. So head to your nearest Disney Park or shop online at the Disney Store today and bring a touch of Disney fun to your everyday adventures!
This Mickey and Friends Tote Bag From Harveys Is The Perfect Touch of Whimsy for Your Summer Style!
Calling all Disney fans! Get ready to add a touch of magic to your everyday look with the upcoming release of Harveys enchanting Mickey and Friends Tote Bag! This playful tote, arriving on June 7th, features everyone’s favorite Disney pals in a design that’s sure to turn heads. Whether you’re running errands, hitting the beach, or simply adding a pop of fun to your outfit, this tote is the perfect companion for all your summer adventures.
Made from Harveys’ signature durable materials, this Mickey & Friends tote is not just stylish, it’s built to last. Spacious enough to carry all your essentials, it’s also lightweight and comfortable to wear. So ditch the boring bags and embrace the magic of Disney with this whimsical tote, a must-have for any Mickey & Friends fanatic!
Mark your calendars and set your alarms, because the Mickey & Friends Classic tote arrives at Harveys on Friday, June 7th at 8AM PDT. Don’t miss your chance to snag this delightful piece and add a touch of whimsy to your summer style! Head over to shopharveys.com or visit their store to shop the Mickey & Friends collection and bring the magic of Disney with you wherever you go!
Princess Tiana Sipper, Seasonings and More Coming to Disney World!
Calling all foodies and fans of The Princess and the Frog! Get ready to celebrate the arrival of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Park with a delightful selection of themed treats and merchandise. Inspired by Princess Tiana’s culinary talents and the vibrant bayou setting, Disney World is serving up a feast fit for royalty (or frogs who become princes!). From collectible sippers to flavorful spices and even a touch of joe, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud. So, dig in and discover the magic of Tiana’s culinary creations!
Starting June 28th, quench your thirst and celebrate the magic of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure with a special Princess Tiana Sipper! These refillable cups can be found at The Friar’s Nook or outdoor vending locations near Cinderella Castle, but hurry, quantities are limited! There’s a maximum of two sippers allowed per person, per transaction.
Craving a bit of the Big Easy in your kitchen? Look no further! Disney is bringing the flavors of New Orleans home with Mama Odie’s Hot Sauce and a special selection of Dooky Chase’s Seasonings.
These seasonings are truly unique. For the first time ever, you can get your hands on Dooky Chase’s famous Gumbo Base, Seafood Seasoning, Meat Seasoning, and Fried Chicken Seasoning, flavors previously only available at their renowned New Orleans restaurant.
This restaurant holds a special place in Disney history. Owned by the legendary Leah Chase, her story helped inspire the creation of Princess Tiana! Starting June 28th, you can find these delicious Disney Parks exclusives at the Emporium, with even more options available at Critter Co-Op when it opens.
Calling all snack lovers! Critter Co-Op is bringing new flavors to the park with Green Apple Gummi Frogs and Spicy Butter Toffee Peanuts.
And for coffee fans, Joffrey’s has a new blend you can take home: Disney Tiana Bayou Beignet. This medium roast is flavored with hints of honey and powdered sugar, for a taste that’s sure to be sweet. Grab a bag at Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Co. at The Landing at Disney Springs, or head over to their website to order online.
As we begin to head into the second half of 2024, many families are planning their 2025 Walt Disney World Vacations. If you are in the middle of planning a visit to the Walt Disney World resort with an arrival of January 2025 or later, you will want to take note of an updated cancellation policy that may impact your stay.
The current Walt Disney World resort cancellation policy allows guests with room-only reservations to cancel their booking without penalty up to 5 days before arrival for a full refund. Cancellations between 4 and 0 days will forfeit the deposit, which is equal to 1 night stay. For packages (think room and tickets booked together), a cancellation up to 30 days before arrival qualifies for a full refund while a cancellation between 2 to 29 days out results in a $200 cancellation fee (equivalent to the minimum package deposit). Package cancellations the day before or on your arrival day result in forfeiture of the entire package price.
According to a post made by a Disney Panelist on the Plan Disney website, the cancellation policy for room-only reservations has been updated as follows: starting January 1, 2025, cancellations made at least 8 days before your arrival qualify for a full refund, cancellations between 0 and 8 days before forfeit the deposit (equal to 1 night stay). This update means you will need to cancel your room-only reservation 3 days sooner to qualify for a full refund. Note at this time there has been no change to the cancellation policies for packages.
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!
Show your Disney pride and capture unforgettable memories with these special photo opportunities available now through June 30th at various Walt Disney World and Disneyland locations!
Hold onto the Rainbow: Find the colorful Pride Balloons throughout the parks for a magical “Pride Balloons Magic Shot” captured by Disney PhotoPass photographers.
Spoiler Free Review of Star Wars The Acolyte on Disney+
The Acolyte, Disney+’s latest venture into the expansive Star Wars universe, boldly steps outside the familiar bounds of the Skywalker Saga, immersing viewers in the rich, untapped era of the High Republic. Set centuries before the rise of the Empire, this series promises a fresh narrative perspective, exploring the darker, more mystical aspects of the Force. With its intricate storytelling and lush, otherworldly visuals, The Acolyte offers a compelling new chapter that both honors and reinvigorates the Star Wars legacy, inviting long-time fans and newcomers alike to embark on a thrilling journey into a bygone age of Jedi splendor and emerging Sith threats.
Leading this stellar cast is Amandla Stenberg, who delivers a captivating performance as Mae, a force-sensitive individual harboring a deep-seated animosity towards the Jedi Order. Stenberg’s portrayal adds layers of complexity and nuance to Mae’s character, making her both a formidable adversary and a sympathetic figure.
Opposing her is Lee Jung-jae, the acclaimed star of Squid Game, who brings gravitas and intensity to the role of Jedi Master Sol. His mission to capture Mae unfolds with the support of a diverse team of Jedi, including Charlie Barnett’s Yord Fandar, whose determination to the Jedi order shines through, and Dafne Keen’s Jecki Lon, who injects youthful vigor and fierce skill into the narrative. Together, this ensemble elevates The Acolyte, grounding its fantastical elements with powerful, human performances.
The Acolyte significantly expands the Star Wars universe, transporting viewers to an array of breathtaking new locations and introducing a vibrant pantheon of Jedi. This series traverses uncharted territories, from the lush, mystically shrouded forests to new bustling, intricate cityscapes of galactic hubs previously unexplored in the Star Wars lore.
Each setting is rendered with stunning visual fidelity, creating a tapestry of diverse worlds that feel both wondrously alien and intimately real. As the narrative unfolds, we encounter a wide array of Jedi, each with distinct philosophies and abilities, further enriching the lore of the High Republic. This expansive exploration not only provides a feast for the eyes but also deepens the mythos of the Star Wars saga, offering fresh narratives and perspectives that enhance the grandeur and complexity of this beloved universe.
However, The Acolyte’s ambitious divergence from the well-trodden path of the Skywalker Saga may prove to be a double-edged sword, particularly for the diehard Star Wars faithful. While the show’s departure into the High Republic era is meant to breathe fresh life into the franchise, it risks alienating longtime fans who cherish the familiar characters and narratives of the original trilogy and its extensions.
This bold narrative leap, filled with new faces and distant epochs, might feel disjointed and disconnected for those who have a deep-seated attachment to the classic lore. The intricate plotlines and novel characters, though rich and engaging, could potentially lack the nostalgic resonance that has been a cornerstone of Star Wars’ enduring appeal. Consequently, this might lead to a less enthusiastic reception from a fandom known for its passionate loyalty to the established mythos.
The Acolyte masterfully embraces a darker, more mature tone that sets it apart within the Star Wars canon. The series is unafraid to venture into the shadows, delivering a narrative replete with unexpected deaths and grim twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
This bold approach infuses the show with a palpable tension and unpredictability, with easter egg cameos and new faces alike navigate a perilous landscape where danger lurks at every turn. The willingness to explore the darker aspects of the Star Wars universe not only heightens the stakes but also adds a layer of depth and sophistication to the storytelling. This daring tonal shift is sure to captivate audiences, offering a refreshing and thrilling departure from the more straightforward heroism that has characterized previous entries in the franchise.
Our look at the first four episodes of The Acolyte left us wanting more and we are enjoying this shift in tone and era for Star Wars storytelling. The Acolyte promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the Star Wars saga, blending a rich, dark narrative with stunning visuals and a compelling cast.
As the series delves into the mystique of the High Republic era, it offers both fresh perspectives and bold storytelling that will captivate new viewers and long-time fans alike. The first two episodes will premiere on Disney+ starting June 4th, with six additional episodes following on a weekly basis. To embark on this thrilling journey through the Star Wars universe, subscribe to the streaming service at disneyplus.com.
Love is in the air, and for Millie Bobby Brown and her new husband Jake Bongiovi, the honeymoon phase is just getting started! Weeks after their intimate wedding ceremony, the newlyweds embarked on a thrilling adventure to Universal Orlando Resort, sharing photos of their epic adventures on Instagram.
Millie, known for her role in “Stranger Things” and “Enola Holmes,” showed off her newlywed status via shorts with Wifey written across the back and a hat that read ‘Wife of the Party.’ The photos shared on IG depict the couple spending some time over in Islands of Adventure, hitting up the games in the Jurassic Park area and even coming face-to-face with a Raptor! No word on if Millie and Jake braved a ride on the amazing VelociCoaster during their time at the park.
@milliebobbybrown on IG
The couple also evidently took the excitement to new heights as they ventured into the nearby Volcano Bay water park. With friends in tow, they embarked on thrilling water slides, enjoying a fun filled day in the hot Florida sun.
So here’s to Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi, embarking on their journey together with hearts full of love and excitement. May their days be filled with more Epic adventures, both on-screen and off. Cheers!
Get ready to raise your glasses, because Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is serving celebrating Pride Month in a way that only Toothsome can. The Chocolate Emporium has unveiled the Pride Milkshake-and it is the perfect treat to cool off after a long day at Universal Orlando Resort!
Available until June 30th, this delightful concoction features fruity pebbles ice cream, a slice of Pride vanilla cake, buttercream icing, rainbow Nerds candy, Nerds Cluster, and whipped topping—all for $17.
So why wait? Gather your friends, your loved ones, or simply treat yourself to a taste of equality at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. But remember, like all good things, this limited-time delight won’t last forever-so be sure to enjoy it before its gone!
Located near the entrance to Pandora — The World of Avatar and Tiffins Restaurant, you’ll find a special gate decorated with the colors of the Progress Pride Flag. This inclusive symbol incorporates the traditional rainbow stripes alongside black and brown stripes representing people of color, and pink, light blue, and baby blue stripes for the transgender community. Swirls of nature-inspired patterns dance across the stripes, and a heartwarming message takes center stage: “Love,” written in white with Mickey Mouse’s silhouette playfully replacing the “o.”
Disney PhotoPass photographers are on hand to capture your perfect Pride moment. They’ll also provide you with an adorable prop – two Mickey Mouse gloves, pressed together to form a heart shape! The heart itself is filled with the colors of the Progress Pride Flag, adding a touch of inclusivity to your celebratory photo.
So head over to Disney’s Animal Kingdom this June and show your Pride with this special photo opportunity!
