Park Updates & Plot Twists: The Latest from Disney and Universal
Disney and Universal Are Turning Up the Heat This Summer
Get ready for a summer like no other—Disney and Universal are bringing the magic, thrills, and major updates to their parks, giving fans plenty to be excited about. From nighttime parades and enhanced water park fun to a closer look at what’s coming to Epic Universe, there’s something new around every corner for theme park lovers.
Double the Splash at Disney World Water Parks
For the first time in years, both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will operate simultaneously from May 21 through September 7. This is especially welcome news for guests taking advantage of free water park admission on check-in day—parks have been hitting capacity fast!
Before reopening, Blizzard Beach will undergo a short refurbishment from May 1–20. Meanwhile, the fan-favorite H2O Glow Nights return to Typhoon Lagoon from May 23 to September 13, transforming the park into an electrifying after-hours party. Expect music, glowing lights, and complimentary Mickey bars, popcorn, and beverages. Tickets are $85 for adults and $42.50 for kids.
New Coffee Buzz at Pop Century
Over at Pop Century Resort, guests are loving the brand-new coffee bar, complete with charming ice cream truck details and an expanded menu of specialty drinks. It’s the latest in a series of updates at this value resort, which already boasts Skyliner access and a refreshed food court. With thoughtful upgrades like this, Pop Century continues to shine as a top choice for budget-conscious guests who still want a touch of magic.
Resort Perks and Kid-Friendly Fun
Disney resort guests can look forward to even more magic this summer, including themed activities at Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, and Wilderness Lodge. Early Park Entry is also getting an upgrade with earlier-than-usual character meet-and-greets—a dream come true for little ones.
Kid Zones are also popping up in key areas across the parks: Storybook Circus and Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom, and the all-new CommuniCore Hall at EPCOT. These interactive spaces are designed to keep younger guests engaged and entertained while parents get a breather.
Return of the Nighttime Parade and New Stage Shows
It’s been a decade since Magic Kingdom had a nighttime parade—but that’s about to change. The all-new Starlight Nighttime Parade is slated to debut in June, dazzling guests with floats inspired by Moana, Encanto, Peter Pan, Frozen, and Pinocchio. While an exact premiere date hasn’t been revealed, anticipation is sky-high.
Meanwhile, Hollywood Studios will launch two brand-new shows on May 24:
“The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure” – a reimagined take on the classic tale.
“Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” – a fun and mischievous journey through the darker side of Disney.
Buzz Lightyear Levels Up
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is getting a high-tech upgrade. Expect:
All-new blasters with always-on lasers (two colors per vehicle)
Enhanced lighting, sound, and vibration effects
Sleek, new ride vehicles themed after Star Command
In-ride video monitors tracking your score in real time
This is a game-changer for fans of interactive attractions.
New Magic at Disneyland
Across the country, Disneyland is getting in on the summer fun too:
Disney Junior Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live debuts May 16 at DCA
Rex from Toy Story arrives at Pixar Pier on June 1
Pixar Pals Playtime returns to Fantasyland on May 23
Stitch’s Interplanetary Beach Party Blast brings interactive fun starting May 23
Star Wars Nite kicks off with special ticketed events, exclusive merch, and one-of-a-kind experiences
Epic Universe: The Countdown Is On
Universal’s Epic Universe continues to stir excitement ahead of its 2025 opening. Previews have revealed jaw-dropping detail in lands like:
The Wizarding World’s Ministry of Magic
How to Train Your Dragon Island
Dark Universe, featuring a full monster transformation experience for around $200—though transformed guests may not be able to purchase alcohol afterward (a quirky but notable detail!).
Even more exciting, Express Passes are already available for Epic Universe. Unlike the other Universal parks, premier hotel guests won’t receive complimentary Express Pass for this park—passes must be purchased separately.
Rides covered by the Express Pass include:
Constellation Carousel
Curse of the Werewolf
Fire Drill
Hiccup’s Wing Gliders
Arcanus
Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
Monsters Unleashed
Stardust Racers
Untrainable Dragon
Yoshi’s Adventure
Not all attractions will be included at launch, but Universal has also rolled out a three-park multi-day Express Pass for guests wanting to experience everything across Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe.
With all of these exciting announcements—and even more expected as summer unfolds—it’s a great time to start planning that dream vacation. Whether you're chasing the thrills of Epic Universe or cooling off at Disney's water parks, the summer of 2025 is shaping up to be unforgettable.