Author: Brian Glenn

Brian may be reached at brian.g@insideuniversal.net - Editor-in-Chief

Universal has officially announced that Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things will return to Halloween Horror Nights in 2026 as an all-new haunted house at both Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood. The announcement marks the franchise’s return to the event after its previous appearances in 2018, 2019, and 2023. Developed in partnership with Netflix, this year’s Stranger Things haunted house will showcase the most gripping moments from the final season in an authentic, visceral experience that places guests at the center of the ultimate battle to save Hawkins. Fans will confront the terror they’ve seen on screen as they navigate iconic…

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Demolition work continues in The Lost Continent at Universal Islands of Adventure, with one of the land’s most recognizable icons now removed. The giant trident that towered over the entrance to Poseidon’s Fury has been removed, marking the latest loss in what has become the steady reduction of one of Islands of Adventure’s original opening day lands. The trident served as a visual centerpiece of The Lost Continent for more than 25 years, visible from across the park and helping define the land’s skyline since Islands of Adventure opened in 1999. The removal comes alongside other recent changes throughout the…

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Universal Destinations & Experiences will return to Midsummer Scream this year with an expanded presence at the Long Beach Convention Center from August 7 – 9, 2026. Located at the front of the show floor, Universal’s booth will feature photo opportunities inspired by this year’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood, exclusive merchandise reveals, character meet & greets, artist signings, and more. Fans will also be able to purchase select merchandise before it arrives at Universal theme parks, including items inspired by Universal Monsters and Halloween II. Additional highlights include a behind-the-scenes panel on Universal Products & Experiences collaborations,…

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Universal Orlando has announced Universal Celestial Goodnight, a new nighttime spectacular debuting July 7 at Universal Epic Universe. The new nighttime show will allow guests to “Top Off their Day of Thrills with a Truly EPIC Nighttime Experience”. Running nightly in Celestial Park, the show will feature synchronized fountains, lighting effects, music, and a fireworks finale celebrating the worlds of Epic Universe, including Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, and Dark Universe. According to Universal, the production will utilize nearly 600 synchronized light fixtures,…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from June 15, 2026, to June 21, 2026. Universal Orlando Universal Orlando is featuring limited-time summer experiences inspired by blockbuster films, running now through August 10, 2026. The seasonal offerings will bring a range of character encounters, themed photo opportunities, interactive activations, exclusive merchandise, and new food and beverage options, highlighted by the Spielberg Summer Blockbusters Exhibit, experiences inspired by Jaws and Illumination’s Minions & Monsters, and the return of the Universal Mega Movie Parade. Volcano Bay Nights continues and will be on Thursday, June 18,…

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Universal Orlando will celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a summer-long fan experience at Universal CityWalk, featuring Telemundo watch parties, specialty food and beverage offerings, interactive activations, and exclusive merchandise from June 11 through July 19. Created in partnership with Telemundo, the event will transform CityWalk into a gathering place for soccer fans looking to experience the excitement of the world’s largest sporting event. Select matches will be broadcast throughout CityWalk with Telemundo’s Spanish-language coverage, including commentary, analysis, and tournament reporting. Among the featured activations is the Telemundo Fan Zone, which includes World Cup-themed photo opportunities, giveaways, and interactive…

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Universal Kids Resort has begun offering preview tickets ahead of its official grand opening on July 1, 2026. Guests can visit the new family-focused theme park during a special preview period running from June 24 through June 29. A 1-Day Preview Ticket is available starting at $49.99 per person, plus tax. According to Universal, the preview period will allow teams to put the final touches on the park and rehearse operations ahead of opening day. As a result, some attractions, entertainment offerings, and experiences may be unavailable during preview dates. Located in Frisco, Texas, Universal Kids Resort invites a new…

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Universal Studios Hollywood will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 with an all-new Independence Day fireworks display, live performances, themed décor, and more. All festivities are included in the price of theme park admission. Guests are welcome to join Universal Studios Hollywood in this star-spangled celebration of Independence Day on July 3rd and 4th. Indulge in limited-time treats at participating CityWalk locations and enjoy the live sounds of a fife and drum band, followed by the 9:00 PM all-new, spectacular fireworks display. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts. Want to join the conversation?…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from June 8, 2026, to June 14, 2026. Universal Orlando Universal Orlando is featuring limited-time summer experiences inspired by blockbuster films, running now through August 10, 2026. The seasonal offerings will bring a range of character encounters, themed photo opportunities, interactive activations, exclusive merchandise, and new food and beverage options, highlighted by the Spielberg Summer Blockbusters Exhibit, experiences inspired by Jaws and Illumination’s Minions & Monsters, and the return of the Universal Mega Movie Parade. Volcano Bay Nights continues and will be on Friday, June 12,…

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Universal has shared a first look at the character-inspired merchandise coming to Universal Kids Resort, opening on July 1, 2026. Each of the park’s seven themed lands will feature retail locations with outfits, toys, plush and accessories designed to bring the fan-favorite stories and characters to life for kids and their families. “Everything we’re creating for Universal Kids Resort is designed with families in mind—from the child height displays to the character-infused storytelling woven into every shop.” said Justin LaFoe, Global Parks Merchandise & Retail Officer, Universal Products & Experiences. “These new merchandise collections aren’t just souvenirs; they’re another way…

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