Author: Brian Glenn

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

Universal Orlando has announced the dates for Halloween Horror Nights 35, which will run on select nights from August 28 through November 1, 2026. The announcement was included as part of Universal Orlando’s newly released 2026 events calendar. While specific details remain under wraps, the event is expected to feature its signature haunted houses, immersive scare zones, live entertainment, and access to select attractions throughout the park. Ticket sales and additional event packages will be announced at a later date. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our…

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Universal Orlando has released a magical new treat in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogwarts House Ice Lollies. Available at Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment in Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida, the colorful ice pops are inspired by the four Hogwarts Houses, with each lolly representing a different House and and it’s own combo of flavors. Gryffindor: Peach and Strawberry Slytherin: Coconut and Matcha Hufflepuff: Pineapple and Milk Chocolate Ravenclaw: Huckleberry and Grape The Ice Lollies are $8.99 each + tax. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along…

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Jurassic Park River Adventure has officially closed at Islands of Adventure for an 11-month refurbishment. The attraction will be closed until November 19, 2026. Per Universal, the closure is for “planned maintenance”. Please keep in mind that these dates can change. Unfortunately, fans were not able to get their “last” rides in as the attraction spent most of Sunday closed for technical issues. Per a team member, the attraction was only open for 20 minutes before closing for the day around 8 pm. Walls were up by early morning, with only the entrance blocked off. The splashdown area is still…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from January 5, 2026, to January 11, 2026. Universal Orlando Passholder Bonus Benefits, an event celebrating Universal Orlando’s Annual Passholders, is now underway through January 31, 2026. UOAPs can enjoy a variety of exclusive, limited-time perks available only during the event. Universal has updated operating hours at Universal Studios Florida for January and February, with the park now set to open at 10 a.m. on most days but closing later in the night. Volcano Bay is currently operating on a seasonal schedule and will only be…

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2025 proved to be one of the most transformative years ever for Universal Orlando. Long-anticipated projects finally came to life, and fan-favorite events evolved in exciting ways. The past year delivered no shortage of moments that defined Universal’s momentum. As the calendar turns, we’re looking back at the stories that shaped Universal Orlando in 2025 that made headlines and set the stage for an Epic future. So let’s take a look at the Top 10 Stories from Universal Orlando during 2025! 10. The Hemisphere Dancer Returns After a nearly year‐long refurbishment, the Hemisphere Dancer, Jimmy Buffett’s legendary seaplane, returned to…

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Another year is coming to a close. Universal Studios Hollywood delivered a year packed with headline-making moments and changes. Whether it was the farewell to an experience, the rise of a new adrenaline-fueled one, or park-wide updates that reshaped the guest experience, each story played a role in defining the year. As the park looks toward an ambitious future, here’s a look at the Top 10 Stories from Universal Studios Hollywood during 2025. 10. Transformers: The Ride 3D undergoes refurbishment Transformers: The Ride 3D underwent a multi-month refurbishment in early 2025. During the closure, Universal performed standard upkeep and refreshes on…

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Universal Orlando has scheduled Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides at Volcano Bay for refurbishment. The area will be closed from January 5, 2026, until February 12, 2026. Please keep in mind that these dates can change. Volcano Bay is set for a 5-month closure starting October 2026 to perform necessary refurbishments and additional maintenance throughout the park. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards. Looking to book that EPIC Universal vacation? We recommend using our friends at MEI-Travel to help plan your next…

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HAPPY NEW YEAR! Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from December 29, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Universal Orlando Universal Epic Universe is now open! Running daily through January 4, 2026, guests can celebrate the Holiday season at Universal Orlando. From the wondrous spectacle of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, and coming face-to-face with everyone’s favorite green grouch, the Grinch, during Grinchmas, to gazing at the floats and larger-than-life balloons during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, there are boundless opportunities for guests to enjoy…

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MERRY CHRISTMAS! Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from December 22, 2025, to December 28, 2025. Universal Orlando Universal Epic Universe is now open! Running daily through January 4, 2026, guests can celebrate the Holiday season at Universal Orlando. From the wondrous spectacle of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, and coming face-to-face with everyone’s favorite green grouch, the Grinch, during Grinchmas, to gazing at the floats and larger-than-life balloons during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, there are boundless opportunities for guests to enjoy at…

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Universal Destinations & Experiences has cleared a major milestone in bringing its first theme park resort to the United Kingdom, as the government officially granted planning approval for the long-anticipated Universal Studios UK project on December 16. The decision allows the Universal to move forward with detailed design and early site preparation for a large-scale resort planned for Bedford. An update about the project was posted on Universal’s official UK Project website: The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has approved our request for planning permission to be granted by way of making a Special Development Order (SDO).…

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