What’s New This Week at Universal Orlando – Hogwarts Express, Diagon Alley and More!

New things are on the horizon at Universal Orlando Resort.  Check back with us weekly for all the information on what’s new at Universal Orlando this week!

New!  New Details about Hogwart’s Express Revealed:  Two experiences will be available to passengers traveling on Hogwart’s Express, which literally takes guests on the journey between the currently open Hogsmeade (at Islands of Adventure) and the soon-to-open London/Diagon Alley (at Universal Studios Florida).  One experience on the way to Hogsmeade, and a different experience on the way to Diagon Alley.

The Hogwarts Express experience combines powerful storytelling, live special effects, lifelike animation and state-of-the-art technology to take riders on the journey of a lifetime.  Once seated in the cabin, guests will be able to look out their windows as an incredibly authentic and magical adventure unfolds before them.  They’ll see Hagrid come alongside the train on his flying motorbike, Buckbeak the Hippogriff swoop gracefully over the black lake, the Weasley twins on brooms and up to their usual antics, the Knight Bus swerving through London traffic – and other special moments and surprises.

New! Original Zonko’s Joke Shop Closed Mar 11: Universal announced this shop would close as part of the changes with the future opening of Diagon Alley.  The new Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes in Diagon Alley will set basically the same types of products formerly found in Zonko’s when Diagon Alley opens.

New!  Velvet Sessions featuring The Psychedelic Furs March 27, 2014: Velvet Bar hosts the city’s only rock ‘n’ roll cocktail party on the last Thursday of the month.  Admission is $29 on-line or $35 at the door and include FREE specialty drinks & finger foods and warm-up tunes from 6:30-8:30pm, plus FREE valet parking.  Cash bars and live band from 8:00pm onward.  Each “session” combines creative cocktails with live music from some of the hottest rock bands.

Reminder!  Mardi Gras Extended to June 7th for Rescheduled Robin Thicke Concert: The excitement of Mardi Gras now continues through June 7 at Universal Orlando Resort, with a live performance by GRAMMY nominated musician Robin Thicke (performance rescheduled from Feb 22).  Along with the live concert, guests can experience the spirit of the legendary Bayou bash during the dazzling Mardi Gras parade, featuring 12 vibrant floats, including three new additions celebrating Jules Verne’s novel, “Around the World in 80 Days.”  Guests can also visit Universal Studios Florida’s very own French Quarter Courtyard to enjoy delectable Cajun cuisine and see performances by bands pulled straight from Bourbon Street.

Reminder: Impact Wrestling Taping Select Dates March through May: Guests can catch IMPACT WRESTLING live event tapings at Universal Orlando on March 13-15, April 10-12 & 24-29, and May 7-10.  IMPACT WRESTLING events are non-ticketed and seating is based on a first-come, first-served basis.  Please note: Taping times are subject to change, so for the most up-to-date information please call 407-224-6000.

Closures and Refurbishments

Universal’s Islands of Adventure

• None Scheduled

Universal Studios

• Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular: 3/16, 3/18, 3/21, 3/22, 3/28 & 3/29 no show scheduled

For help planning your Universal Orlando vacation contact Gretchen, an agent with Destinations in Florida, the preferred Earmark agency of Chip & Co at gretchen@destinationsinflorida.com.

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