Author: Brian Glenn

On the heels of Universal Parks & Resorts rebranding the company to Universal Destinations & Experiences, Universal Orlando has rolled out new logos for the Resort itself, as well as for the 3 theme parks and CityWalk. The new logos have a much more modern look while retaining the basic concepts of the original logos. Each theme park logo also features a circular/globe-like design, adding a shared visual link. The most notable change is Islands of Adventure’s logo, which has moved on from its iconic 1999 original logo. There is no word as to how the logo change will…

Today, Universal Parks & Resorts, a unit of Comcast NBCUniversal, announced they rebranding and will become “Universal Destinations & Experiences”. Universal states the rebrand “better reflects the full breadth of innovative offerings Universal brings to fans around the globe and its intent to continue to expand its business in the future.” The name change also signals how the company is diversifying by bringing Universal branded entertainment, culinary, gaming, and consumer product experiences to life in unique and creative ways for new audiences, in new places, and on new platforms in both the physical and virtual worlds. “Universal Destinations & Experiences…

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from March 6, 2023, to March 12, 2023. Universal Orlando Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval continues this week, however, the weekend concerts have concluded. Taking place from February 4 through April 16, 2023, Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval – features a dazzling Mardi Gras parade, mouthwatering cuisine inspired by global Carnaval celebrations, and, on select nights, live concerts. For more information, visit here. Refurbishments Please keep in mind refurbishment dates can change. Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges at Islands of Adventure is closed for…

Universal Parks has announced the arrival of Vegan-friendly Butterbeer to Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood. Guests can now enjoy a vegan version of the fan-favorite beverage at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at both US parks. Available in cold and frozen, the new non-dairy offering features the same delicious taste as the existing, wildly-popular Butterbeer drink – complete with flavors reminiscent of butterscotch and shortbread and topped with a vegan-friendly version of the iconic Butterbeer froth. Universal Orlando guests can purchase vegan, non-dairy Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks restaurant in Hogsmeade and the Leaky Cauldron restaurant in Diagon…

Guests of Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels can keep the Mardi Gras party going with themed food and beverage options available at select restaurants and bars during Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval event. Here is a look at what guests can enjoy at each hotel throughout the remainder of the Mardi Gras season, which continues through April 16: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Trattoria del Porto Cajun Jambalaya Pasta – Shrimp, Smoke Sausage, Chicken, Onions, Peppers and Mushrooms in a Creole Sauce with Fettuccine Pasta Masquerade Cannoli – Mixed Berry Insalada The Thirsty Fish Boulevardier – Bourbon, Italian Liqueur, Fortified Wine Splendido Bar…

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from February 27, 2023, to March 5, 2023. Universal Orlando Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval continues this week. On March 4, Sean Paul will be performing live at the Music Plaza Stage. On March 5, Lauren Daigle will be performing live at the Music Plaza Stage. Taking place from February 4 through April 16, 2023, Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval – features a dazzling Mardi Gras parade, mouthwatering cuisine inspired by global Carnaval celebrations, and, on select nights, live concerts. For more information, visit…

Super Nintendo World has officially opened at Universal Studios Hollywood! The opening to one of the most anticipated lands in theme park history kicked off its 3-day event with a Red Carpet celebration, featuring celebrities along with Nintendo and Universal executives. By Friday morning, hundreds of guests were waiting during the early morning hours to be one of the firsts inside Super Nintendo World. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzH4wyGVANA First announced in May 2015, the opening in Hollywood has surely seen an eventful construction timeline – which started back in late 2018 with Soundstage demolition. Of course, the timeline was heavily altered by the…

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from February 20, 2023, to February 26, 2023. Universal Orlando Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval continues this week. On February 25, 3 Doors Down will be performing live at the Music Plaza Stage after Saturday’s parade. Taking place from February 4 through April 16, 2023, Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval – features a dazzling Mardi Gras parade, mouthwatering cuisine inspired by global Carnaval celebrations, and, on select nights, live concerts. For more information, visit here. Refurbishments Please keep in mind refurbishment dates can change.…

Super Nintendo World is officially open at Universal Studios Hollywood. On hand to help officiate today’s opening were Shigeru Miyamoto, Representative Director and Fellow, Nintendo Co. Ltd. and Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood who were joined by Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach in front of fans eager to enter the new land. “Today’s grand opening of Super Nintendo World is very exciting, and we are thrilled to share it with our team members, fans and guests who have been enthusiastically waiting for this day to arrive,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President & General…

Mardi Gras is back at Universal Orlando, celebrating another year of food, beads, and fun. Taking place daily through April 16, 2023, Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval – features a dazzling Mardi Gras parade, mouthwatering cuisine inspired by global Carnaval celebrations, and, on select nights, live concerts. The event has become one of the most popular events at Universal in recent years, especially as Universal has expanded beyond the confines of Mardi Gras being “just a New Orleans” celebration. This year’s Mardi Gras theme is “Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras”, which brings to life six new & incredibly detailed parade…