Universal Adds Swamp of the Undead to Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zone Lineup

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July 16, 2024

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Universal Studios continues to build excitement for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights with the unveiling of the second scare zone: Swamp of the Undead. This announcement comes just one day after revealing the Torture Faire scare zone.

In the Swamp of the Undead, visitors will find themselves in the backwaters of Louisiana, facing zombies borne from the bodies of trespassers who met their end in a nearby bog. This scare zone promises to immerse guests in a chilling, swampy environment filled with undead horrors.

Recap of Announced Haunted Houses

As the countdown to Halloween Horror Nights 2024 continues, Universal has already announced nine out of ten haunted houses. Here’s a recap of what’s been revealed so far:

A Quiet Place: Navigate the post-apocalyptic world from “A Quiet Place” and “A Quiet Place Part II.” Stay silent to survive as you move from the farmhouse to the woods and the foundry, avoiding monstrous creatures that hunt by sound.
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire: Team up with the Ghostbusters to save the world from a second Ice Age. Face off against Garraka and his army of ghosts in this bone-chilling haunted house inspired by the film.
Insidious: The Further: Don’t get trapped in The Further as terrifying demons try to ensnare you. The Red-Faced Demon and KeyFace are waiting to possess your body and keep your soul trapped forever.
Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America: With La Muerte as your guide, encounter three terrifying monsters: the blood-sucking Tlahuelpuchi, owl-faced witch La Lechuza, and bone-ripping El Silbón.
Slaughter Sinema 2: Scream through scenes from B-movie horrors at the Carey Drive-in, featuring creature features, grindhouse gore, spaghetti westerns, and more.
The Museum: Deadly Exhibits: Visit a new folklore museum exhibit, The Rotting Stone, where an evil escapes and destroys everything in its path.
Major Sweets Candy Factory: Chaperone a field trip to a candy factory where free samples transform kids into candy-coated killers.
Goblin’s Feast: Enter a goblin village filled with bloodthirsty goblins, orcs, hobgoblins, and witches who would love to have you for dinner.
Triplets of Terror: Attend the Barmy triplets’ birthday bash where they celebrate by recreating their family’s murders.

What’s Next?

Fans eagerly await the announcement of the final haunted house, as well as details on the remaining scare zones, food offerings, and the theme for the live show. There is also speculation about the possible return of a lagoon show now that the projectors are back up and running.

Scare Zone Announcement: Swamp of the Undead

In backwaters Louisiana, you’re about to be swamped by zombies borne from the bodies of trespassers killed and dumped in a nearby bog. Tickets are now on sale: https://t.co/rynhL2HuzW #HHN #HHN33 pic.twitter.com/UK84ginDTb
— Halloween Horror Nights (@HorrorNightsORL) July 16, 2024

Event Details

Halloween Horror Nights 2024 will take place on select nights from August 30 to November 3 at Universal Studios Florida. Single and multi-night tickets are on sale now, so grab yours now and prepare for a terrifyingly good time!

Disney CEO Bob Iger Shares Statement in the wake of Shooting of Former President Trump

By

Chip

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July 16, 2024

Disney CEO Bob Iger Shares Statement in the wake of Shooting of Former President Trump

Disney CEO Bob Iger took to Instagram to share a statement following a shooting at former President Donald Trump’s rally on July 13.

The incident occurred in Pennsylvania while the former President was on stage campaigning for the 2024 Presidential race. According to the news, there were two fatalities, including the shooter, and three injuries reported. Among the injured was Trump, who sustained a wound to his ear.

On July 14, Bob Iger posted the following statement to his social media account.

“We are all thankful that President Trump was not severely injured, and I wish him a speedy recovery. I offer my most heartfelt condolences to the family of Corey Comperatore and I am praying for the other victims of this unconscionable shooting. As a nation, we must all unite in condemnation of political violence.”Disney CEO Bob Iger

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A post shared by Robert Iger (@robertiger)

Calling All Universal Orlando Superfans! Your Chance to Star in “The Fanny Pack” YouTube Series!

By

Chris B

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July 16, 2024

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Discover Universal, the official blog and planning hub of the Universal Orlando Resort, is searching for theme park enthusiasts to star in its new YouTube series, “The Fanny Pack.” This vlogger-style series will feature a rotating cast of diverse fans, aptly named “The Fanny Pack,” highlighting everything Universal Orlando has to offer through unscripted and improvised video segments, challenges, and other fun content.

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How to Audition

Fans are invited to submit a vlogger-style tour of their favorite local spot, answering questions to showcase their personality and love for Universal Orlando. The casting call seeks authentic, witty, adventurous, and outgoing individuals passionate about theme parks, fandoms, thrill rides, and pop culture. Ideal candidates should have experience with social media content, an interest in content creation, and knowledge about vacationing at Universal Orlando. Experience in vlogging or digital content creation is preferred but not required. Applicants must reside in the Orlando, Florida area.

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About “The Fanny Pack”

“The Fanny Pack” is part of the Discover Universal digital series lineup, which includes:

The Ride Guys: An entertaining tour of top rides with key details.
Checked-In: Tours of all eight Universal hotels, showcasing lobbies, rooms, pools, and amenities.
Dine and Ride: A culinary quest through Universal’s elevated theme park fare.

How to Apply

To apply for “The Fanny Pack,” fans can access audition materials here and submit their entries to [email protected]. The deadline to audition is July 29, 2024.

Good luck to everyone who enters!

Country Bear Musical Jamboree will be included in Extended Evening Hours at Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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July 16, 2024

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The Country Bears are gearing up to delight guests with a brand-new show that pays tribute to the Opry-style performances of Nashville. The updated Country Bear Musical Jamboree will feature easter eggs from start to finish, including a familiar tune that long-time fans may recognize. However, the bears will also introduce new, reinterpreted Disney tunes in various country music genres, such as bluegrass, pop-country, Americana, rockabilly, and more.

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This refreshed show is set to debut on July 17th, with previews already underway. Excitingly, the updated Country Bear Musical Jamboree will be included in Magic Kingdom’s Extended Evening Hours, starting on its opening day, July 17th. It’s important to note that while the show will be available during Extended Evening Hours, it will not be part of Early Theme Park Entry in the mornings; instead, it will open at the general park opening time.

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Extended Evening Hours are a special benefit for registered guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, providing them with extra time to enjoy select attractions and experiences in the parks. Here’s a list of the resorts that qualify for this benefit:

Disney Deluxe Resorts:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort

Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts:

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Other Select Hotels:

Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
Shades of Green on Walt Disney World

During Extended Evening Hours, guests can enjoy select merchandise and food and beverage locations, along with various attractions. Here’s a look at what’s available:

Magic Kingdom:

“it’s a small world”
Astro Orbiter
The Barnstormer
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Country Bear Musical Jamboree
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Haunted Mansion
Mad Tea Party
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Mickey’s PhilharMagic
Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
Peter Pan’s Flight
Pirates of the Caribbean
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Space Mountain
Swiss Family Treehouse
Tomorrowland Speedway
TRON Lightcycle Run
Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

EPCOT:

Frozen Ever After
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana
Mission: SPACE
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
Soarin’ Around the World
Spaceship Earth
The Seas with Nemo & Friends

With the Country Bear Musical Jamboree joining the Extended Evening Hours lineup, guests staying at eligible resorts have even more reasons to look forward to their magical nights at Magic Kingdom. Don’t miss the chance to experience the revamped show and enjoy extra hours of fun in the park!

Construction Walls Go Up at the Canada Pavilion in EPCOT

By

Chris B

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July 16, 2024

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EPCOT continues to see construction activity, with the latest development being new construction walls at the Canada Pavilion. These walls, which went up at the end of June, now surround Hotel du Canada. A section of the hotel has also been partially covered by a white tarp, resulting in speculation about potential expansions or additions to this pavilion.

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Hotel du Canada recently completed an eight-month refurbishment in February, making the new construction surprising. The white tarp covers an exterior section of the building, suggesting a possible new functional space such as a shop, bar, or restaurant. Currently, the hotel area is only used by Cast Members, and has not been a functional guests area since La Boutique des Provinces closed years ago.

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This construction follows EPCOT’s recent multi-year transformation, including the opening of CommuniCore Hall and Plaza. Additionally, Test Track is currently closed and undergoing refurbishment. As EPCOT evolves, the changes at the Canada Pavilion hint at more exciting developments to come.

Disney’s New Water Flume Patent Sparks Rumors of ‘Moana’-Themed Attraction

By

Sara

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July 15, 2024

Disney’s New Water Flume Patent Sparks Rumors of ‘Moana’-Themed Attraction

Disney has set sail on a new patent that could revolutionize water flume rides! The patent has also left us wondering if a ‘Moana’-themed attraction might be coming to the parks.

Disney just filed a patent for a groundbreaking water ride experience called “Guided boat with external discrete yaw control” (fancy talk for fancy tech). Invented by Kristopher M. Laffin, this 2020 patent (published in 2024) describes a system that lets riders see more than just what’s straight ahead. Unlike current flume rides like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure where you’re stuck facing forward, or free-for-all rapids rides like Kali River Rapids, this new tech would allow the boats to swivel and turn, giving riders a whole new perspective on the watery adventure!

Imagine exploring a tropical world with Moana, or navigating a thrilling chase alongside pirates – the possibilities are endless! This may even surpass the controlled turns seen on Shanghai Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean ride, taking water rides to a whole new level!

This new patent lets Imagineers design scenes with hidden details. Imagine spinning around to see a secret moment you might’ve missed on a regular flume ride – kind of like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind! The boats will still travel along the water track, but an underwater guide will adjust their direction, so you won’t always be facing where you’re going. It’s a whole new way to experience the story!

Disney’s new water ride patent hints at a possible high-seas adventure. The patent shows an outrigger canoe like Moana’s, sparking rumors of a full-fledged water ride after a previous Moana flume concept surfaced in 2022. While plans for a Dinoland U.S.A. replacement featuring Moana were scrapped, this new tech could be destined for the “Beyond Big Thunder” expansion at Magic Kingdom, offering a thrilling twist alongside the existing Journey of Water walkthrough at EPCOT.

What do you think of the new water flume permit?

Soundtrack for Country Bear Musical Jamboree to Release on Streaming Platforms on July 17th

By

Sara

-

July 15, 2024

Soundtrack for Country Bear Musical Jamboree to Release on Streaming Platforms on July 17th

Git along, little doggies! The pawsome soundtrack to the all-new Country Bear Musical Jamboree is finally here! You will soon be able to listen to the knee-slappin’ tunes and toe-tappin’ medleys from your favorite furry friends wherever you stream music. Get ready for a rootin’ tootin’ good time with classic country jams and some surprising Disney favorites, all sung with true A-“Bear”-ican style!

Mark your calendars, bear fans! The toe-tappin’ tunes of the Country Bear Musical Jamboree are moseyin’ on over to streaming services on July 17th – the same day the show reopens at Magic Kingdom! This time around, get ready for a whole new setlist, performed in a style that brings back the glory days of Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry.

The new show will feature classic Disney tunes with a rootin’ tootin’ country twist. Expect everything from down-home Americana (we call it A-“Bear”-icana!) to high-energy bluegrass, catchy pop-country, and even some rockabilly twang!

The song list includes:

“Country Bear Musical Jamboree” – a new original song written for the attraction
“Try Everything” from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Zootopia”
“Kiss the Girl” from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid”
“A Whole New World” from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Aladdin”
“Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” from Walt Disney Studios’ “Mary Poppins”
“Fixer-Upper” from Walt Disney Studios’ “Frozen”
“Remember Me” from Disney-Pixar’s “Coco”
“You’ve Got A Friend In Me” from Disney-Pixar’s “Toy Story”
“Bare Necessities” from Walt Disney Animation Studios “The Jungle Book”
“Come Again” – an original song that debuted with Country Bear Jamboree in 1974

The new Country Bear Jamboree pulls out all the stops with a star-studded vocal cast! Country music royalty like record-breaking 10-time CMA Musician of the Year Mac McAnally joins the fun, belting out classics like “Fixer Upper” and “The Bare Necessities.” Rising star Emily Ann Roberts brings her twang to Trixie’s rendition of “Try Everything,” while the harmonious duo of Allison Russell and Chris Thile breathe new life into “A Whole New World” for Teddi Barra and Wendell.

Will you be streaming the new soundtrack?

Scare Up Some Style with the New Monsters University Loungefly Backpack!

By

Ana Leal

-

July 15, 2024

Scare Up Some Style with the New Monsters University Loungefly Backpack!

Get ready to unleash your inner scare master with the newest addition to the Loungefly collection: the Monsters University Mini Backpack! This adorable accessory is a must-have for any fan of the hit Pixar film. Designed to resemble a classic varsity jacket, it’s packed with details that will make you feel like a true member of the Scare Team.

The Monsters University Loungefly Backpack is available now at the Disney Store online for $89.

From the striped pattern and faux buttons to the iconic patches featuring the Monsters University logo, medal, and Archie the Fear Tech mascot, this backpack captures the spirit of the film perfectly. Whether you’re heading to class, running errands, or simply showing off your Monsters U. pride, this backpack is the perfect companion.

With its spacious main compartment, convenient side pockets, and signature Loungefly charm, this backpack is both stylish and functional. Plus, the simulated leather construction ensures durability and a premium look.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to add a touch of monster-sized fun to your wardrobe!

Credit: Disney Store

Dates Announced for Minnie’s Halloween and Holiday Dining at Hollywood & Vine

By

Sara

-

July 15, 2024

Dates Announced for Minnie’s Halloween and Holiday Dining at Hollywood & Vine

Calling all Disney fans! Join Minnie Mouse and her pals for unforgettable dining parties throughout the year. Dates for her Halloween and Holiday dining events at Hollywood & Vine have been announced!

Get ready for dazzling decorations, delicious food, and festive music—all with a seasonal twist! Mingle with your favorite Disney characters, dressed to impress for each occasion. It’s a chance to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Halloween Dine

Visit Minnie’s favorite happy haunt for a spooktacular Halloween feast that’s frightfully delightful. This dining event takes place from August 9 through November 7.

Holiday Dine

Deck the halls at a dazzling dinner party filled with holiday cheer and the joy of the season! Guests can enjoy this festive character meal from November 8, 2024 through January 4, 2025.

This spectacular lunch and dinner buffet offers an array of salads and delicious chilled starters. Entrees include oven-roasted herbed chicken, carved beef tenderloin, seared salmon, spice-rubbed pork loin and a plant-based roasted mushroom-farro risotto.

Make sure to save room for some showstopping desserts, including seasonal bread pudding, Mississippi mud pie and more!

Skip the long lines and stressful planning! Let me handle all the magic of your Disney World trip. I’m your one-stop shop for booking the perfect resort, scoring those coveted dining reservations, and creating an itinerary that’s customized to your dreams. From thrilling rides to character meet-and-greets, I’ll ensure every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on making memories with your loved ones. Let’s create an unforgettable Disney adventure together!

New Tequila Sundae Debuts in EPCOT

By

Sara

-

July 15, 2024

New Tequila Sundae Debuts in EPCOT

Craving a taste of Mexico with a boozy twist? Look no further than the Tequila Sundae at La Cantina de San Angel! Nestled within the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot, this delightful treat is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Made with 100% de agave tequila, this sundae offers a smooth base for the tangy lime sorbet. A spicy kick comes from the tamarind candy, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. To finish it all off, the sundae boasts a festive chile lime rim, adding a touch of zest to the experience. So next time you’re exploring the wonders of Mexico at Epcot, be sure to stop by La Cantina de San Angel and indulge in the one-of-a-kind Tequila Sundae!

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Newborn Zebra Foal Joins Kilimanjaro Safaris Herd at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Sara

-

July 15, 2024

Newborn Zebra Foal Joins Kilimanjaro Safaris Herd at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

There’s a new set of stripes on the savanna! A Hartmann’s mountain zebra foal has arrived at Kilimanjaro Safaris in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Dr. Mark Penning, VP of Disney’s Animals, Science & Environment, shared some exciting news on Instagram! A new Hartmann’s mountain zebra foal has joined the Kilimanjaro Safaris herd at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This is the second foal for mom Juno, following Cricket’s arrival last year.

Hartmann’s mountain zebras are native to Namibia and Angola in Africa. They’re the smallest zebra subspecies, distinguished by dewlaps on their necks and a lack of stripes on their bellies. Sadly, the International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies them as vulnerable due to threats like hunting and habitat loss.

Did you know? Another Hartmann’s mountain zebra foal was recently born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge! Disney is dedicated to conservation efforts, and these new arrivals are a testament to their commitment to protecting this fascinating species.

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A post shared by Dr. Mark Penning (@drmarkatdisney)

Torture Faire Scare Zone Coming to Halloween Horror Nights

By

Chris B

-

July 15, 2024

Universal Orlando has officially announced the first of five scare zones for Halloween Horror Nights 2024, and it promises to be a spine-chilling experience. The new scare zone is called “Torture Faire,” where guests are invited to brave the gloriously gory medieval torture devices until they are put out of their misery. This marks the first scare zone announcement of the season, with four more yet to be revealed.

In addition to the scare zones, Universal has already announced nine out of ten haunted houses for this year’s event. Fans can also look forward to the announcement of the final house, as well as details on the remaining scare zones, food offerings, and the theme for the live show. There’s also speculation about the possible return of a lagoon show now that the projectors are back up and running.

Here’s a recap of the haunted houses announced so far:

A Quiet Place: Navigate the post-apocalyptic world from the films “A Quiet Place” and “A Quiet Place Part II.” Stay silent to survive as you move from the farmhouse to the woods and the foundry, avoiding monstrous creatures that hunt by sound.
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire: Team up with the Ghostbusters to save the world from a second Ice Age. Face off against Garraka and his army of ghosts in this bone-chilling haunted house inspired by the film.
Insidious: The Further: Don’t get trapped in The Further as terrifying demons try to ensnare you. The Red-Faced Demon and KeyFace are waiting to possess your body and keep your soul trapped forever.
Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America: With La Muerte as your guide, encounter three terrifying monsters: the blood-sucking Tlahuelpuchi, owl-faced witch La Lechuza, and bone-ripping El Silbón.
Slaughter Sinema 2: Scream through scenes from B-movie horrors at the Carey Drive-in, featuring creature features, grindhouse gore, spaghetti westerns, and more.
The Museum: Deadly Exhibits: Visit a new folklore museum exhibit, The Rotting Stone, where an evil escapes and destroys everything in its path.
Major Sweets Candy Factory: Chaperone a field trip to a candy factory where free samples transform kids into candy-coated killers.
Goblin’s Feast: Enter a goblin village filled with bloodthirsty goblins, orcs, hobgoblins, and witches who would love to have you for dinner.
Triplets of Terror: Attend the Barmy triplets’ birthday bash where they celebrate by recreating their family’s murders.

Halloween Horror Nights 2024 will take place on select nights from August 30 to November 3 at Universal Studios Florida. With so many terrifying attractions and exclusive ticket options available, it’s time to prepare for an unforgettable spooky season.