If you follow theme park news like I do, you’re probably well aware of what’s in the works at Universal Orlando Resort. Its newest theme park, Epic Universe, is set to arrive next summer. But Universal isn’t waiting until 2025 to entice families to visit. On the contrary, the resort is as busy as ever, as evidenced by the latest announcements for this summer’s lineup.
Summer 2024 is a great time to visit Universal Orlando Resort. They’re getting a brand-new land perfect for little ones, and they’re also debuting three all-new entertainment offerings, including a daytime parade and two nighttime shows. Of course, this all leads into the resort’s busy fall season with the return of Halloween Horror Nights. Universal Orlando is one busy bee, and I personally cannot wait to check out everything that’s new this summer. Here are all the details about what’s on tap.
WHERE TO STAY: Guide to the best Universal Orlando hotels for every age group and interest
A new DreamWorks land built for young families
Young families, in particular, will want to take note of Universal Orlando’s latest addition to its theme parks: DreamWorks Land. Here, the worlds of three DreamWorks Animation favorites—Shrek, Trolls, and Kung-Fu Panda—will come alive in an immersive, interactive environment for little ones. Guests of all ages can ride a new family coaster called “Trolls Trollercoaster.” In addition, there will be opportunities meet beloved characters at Shrek’s Swamp Meet.
TODDLER TREATS: 10 things families shouldn’t miss at Seuss Landing at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Kids can also participate in Po Live!, a digital character meet-and-greet experience. These attractions, plus new dining and shopping options, makes DreamWorks Land a must-see stop during your next visit to Universal Orlando. DreamWorks Land officially opens for guests at Universal Studios Florida on June 14.
Three new entertainment offerings
Universal Orlando will keep everyone busy this summer with three new entertainment offerings catering to guests of all ages and interests. A new daytime parade, the Universal Mega Movie Parade, will be held on select days at Universal Studios Florida. Performances begin on July 3. This will be Universal’s largest daytime parade to date, with a whopping 13 brand new floats and nearly 100 performers. Films featured in the parade include E.T., Back to the Future, Jaws, Ghostbusters, Jurassic World, Illumination’s Minions and Sing, and DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Kung Fu Panda.
DINO-SOAR: Is Universal Orlando’s Jurassic World VelociCoaster too scary for kids?
At night, Universal Studios will come alive with CineSational: A Symphony Spectacular. The new waterfront nighttime performs on select nights starting June 14. CineSational features over 600 drones, 228 fountains, and 4K projection mapping. In addition to what will surely be impressive visuals, CineSational adds an “original composition featuring newly arranged scores” from popular films (including the Jurassic World and Harry Potter franchises).
Speaking of Harry Potter, also premiering on June 14 is Hogwarts Always, a new projection show at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter‘s Hogsmeade land in Islands of Adventure. On select nights, dazzling new projections will bring Hogwarts Castle to life. This show will bring guests through a school year at Hogwarts, including memorable milestones like shopping in Diagon Alley, a ride aboard Hogwarts Express, and participating in the Sorting Ceremony. The Hogwarts Castle shows are always memorable and magical, and I expect Hogwarts Always to be no different.
