This Saturday the Universal Orlando Resort kicks off a celebration of 25 years of unforgettable moments at Universal Orlando’s 25th Anniversary Concert Series with musical performances by award-winning Latin singer Prince Royce on Saturday, May 23 and teen sensation and singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes on Sunday, May 24.
Saturday, May 23
Prince Royce
Prince Royce’s latest album, “Soy el Mismo,” debuted at No. 1 on the Latin Album charts with his fourth studio album slated to release later this year. The singer has recently collaborated with several of today’s biggest artists, on top hits like “Stuck on a Feeling” and “Back It Up.”
Sunday, May 24
Shawn Mendes
Mendes – who is hailed by Billboard as “Music’s First Vine Star”– just released his debut album, “Handwritten,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard charts and includes his popular single “Life of the Party.” The 16-year-old singer is currently featured as one of TIME Magazine’s “Most Influential Teens of 2014” and will also be Taylor Swift’s opening act this summer during her “1989” world-tour.
On select nights through June 20, Universal Studios Florida will host a diverse lineup of award winning, chart-topping artists to celebrate its 25thanniversary year. The excitement of the concert series is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with an Annual Pass. For more information, visit www.universalorlando.com.
Saturday, May 30
PITBULL
Saturday, June 6
KELLIE PICKLER
Saturday, June 13
HUEY LEWIS AND THE NEWS
Saturday, June 20
GOO GOO DOLLS
Admission into the Concert Series is included with admission, and it is important to know that the event occurs rain or shine. No rain checks, returns or refunds. Prices, dates, times, attractions and entertainment subject to availability and may change without notice. Other restrictions may apply.
2015 Universal Orlando Rock the Universe Line-Up Announced
On September 11 and 12, Universal Orlando will host Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, Rock the Universe, and the details of this weekend of faith, fun, and concerts look amazing.
Let’s start with the concerts!
On Friday, mainstays of the Christian rock scene Switchfoot will take to the stage to perform their soul-stirring hits. Later that evening, Christian music giants Newsboys and Crowder will captivate the crowd with powerful hits of their own.
Photo: Universal Orlando
On Saturday, the riding, rocking and rejoicing continues with more of the genre’s biggest stars, including the Grammy award-winning Casting Crowns. Also performing on Saturday are international fan-favorites Jesus Culture and Planetshakers.
Photo: Universal Orlando
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
Switchfoot
Newsboys
Crowder
Kari Jobe
Kutless
Family Force 5
Capital Kings
All Things New
Aaron Gillespie Waves of Glory winner
Casting Crowns
Jesus Culture
Planetshakers
Tenth Avenue North
Building 429
Andy Mineo
NF
Nine Lashes
Rapture Ruckus
Shine Bright Baby Waves of Glory winner
With a Rock the Universe event ticket you will be able to enter Universal Studios Florida at 4pm. The event lasts from 4pm to 1am on both event nights (Friday, September 11 and Saturday, September 12).
During Rock the Universe, the following attractions will be open at Universal Studios Florida
TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit®
Revenge of the Mummy®
MEN IN BLACK™ Alien Attack™
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
and more
During Rock the Universe, there will be inspirational guest speakers, a FanZone where you can get autographs, and experience a special candlelighting ceremony on Saturday night.
PLUS, you can be part of a special Sunday Morning Worship service held at the Park.
Disclosure: I was an invited guest of the Universal Orlando Resort to experience Mardi Gras, however all opinions are my own.
Why I love Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando
Mardi Gras is my absolute favorite time of year to experience Universal Studios Florida!
Mardi Gras is an annual celebration, included with park admission, that happens on select weekends until April 18th where entertainment, specialty food items, an amazing parade, and a concert series that is full of amazing performers fills the park with an electric energy!
The celebration vibe is set once you enter the gates of Universal Studios Florida, and you are greeted with some of the many special entertainers on stilts that are wonderful!
Also, roaming the streets you will find a roaming band performing some Mardi Gras favorites.
What would a great Mardi Gras party be without food?
The vibrant French Quarter Courtyard is where you will find cajun and creole treats and specialty drinks available for purchase.
During the media event we had the opportunity to try a few of the goodies that you will find!
We all got to try the spicy Jambalaya, grilled Andouille sausage with peppers & onions, and the creole gumbo.
Creole GumboAndouille Sausage with Peppers & OnionsJambalaya
Then as an even sweeter treat, we got to finish our meal with beignets and funnel cakes.
BeignetsFunnel Cake
And the Voo Doo Punch is dangerously good!
Voo Doo Punch
You can’t celebrate Mardi Gras without a parade, and this one definitely doesn’t disappoint!
Over the course of Mardi Gras Universal Orlando will let 1.8 million beads fly during the Mardi Gras Parade.
While the route covers a good portion of Universal Studios Florida, I recommend catching the parade near the Horror Make-Up Show since you will get the chance for double beads as the parade starts and ends here.
This year the Mardi Gras Parade stops for some dance breaks during which the Mardi Gras Krewe gets down off of their float to give out premium Mardi Gras Beads. They are a ton of fun!
Little Mardi Gras fans and their families may want to consider viewing the parade from the Little Jester’s Area, near the Brown Derby, where they have less people to contend with for beads. This area is available beginning one hour before the parade starts.
On an earlier visit to Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando, I was able to ride the Elegance of India Float and throw beads it was an AMAZING experience! Annual Passholders can sign up for the chance to be chosen here. Not an Annual Passholder, make sure you follow @UniversalORL on Twitter!
During Universal Mardi Gras the streets of Universal Studios Florida are filled with the sounds of great performers and bands!
On the French Quarter Courtyard stage you can find some of Louisiana’s most popular bands performing authentic blues, zydeco, and more!
The Courtyard Stage is set up near Transformers: The Ride 3-D, and has even more room this year for dancing. It’s a really great place to spend some time!
Here are the bands that are set to perform on the French Quarter Courtyard Stage for the remainder of Mardi Gras.
March 13: Mississippi Rail Company
March 14: Mississippi Rail Company
March 15: Mississippi Rail Company
March 20: Soul Project
March 21: Soul Project
March 22: Soul Project
March 28: Naughty Professor
April 4: Daddy Mac Blues Band
April 11: Big Al and the Heavyweights
April 18: Gravy
Later in the evening you can head over to Music Plaza Stage to catch live performances from some of the biggest names from the worlds of pop, rock, country, R&B and more.
Here is the line-up of artist who will be performing during this year’s Mardi Gras Celebration.
I’ve also shared some of my best concert tips in this post!
It is important to note that, there is an ADA viewing area is located at the far right side of the stage near the restrooms adjacent to Twister…Ride It Out.
During the event we got to see Kelly Clarkson, and it was AMAZING!!!
Everyone in my family has an Annual Pass to the Universal Orlando Resort, and if you don’t have your’s yet this is a great time to get one because there is a great Mardi Gras promotion going on!
Florida Residents Get up to 3 Months Free on any Annual Pass with a valid UPC/Promo Code on select Coca-Cola Packages or Wendy’s cups.
For a limited time, you can become an Annual Passholder, and get three additional months added to your Preferred Pass or Premier Pass. Or, get one additional month added to your Power Pass. Includes access to special events and other perks all year round. (Offer valid on new purchases only; must be purchased and activated by 04/19/15. Blockout dates apply for Power Pass. You can find out more information here.)
Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando is our family’s favorite time of year, and we can’t wait to go back!
I can’t thank Universal Orlando enough for the opportunity to experience Mardi Gras, and if you haven’t gotten the chance to go yet…What are you waiting for???
The Second Annual “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Begins tomorrow at Universal Orlando Resort
Beginning tomorrow, fans from around the world will come together to celebrate Harry Potter’s adventures at the second annual “A Celebration of Harry Potter.”
Hosted by Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros., this three-day event will allow fans to enjoy incredible experiences from Q&A sessions with some of their favorite Harry Potter film talent to exploring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and more.
A Celebration of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort will include unforgettable experiences, such as:
·Q&A sessions with film talent and other special guests, including Robbie Coltrane (Rubeus Hagrid), Michael Gambon (AlbusDumbledore), James Phelps (Fred Weasley), Oliver Phelps (George Weasley) and Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood)
·A special opening event on Friday evening starring the Harry Potter film talent, MinaLima, and award-winning artist KazuKibuishi and more.
·A live duelling demonstration and wand combat masterclass hosted by Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, featuring the world’s only Wand Combat choreographer, Paul Harris
·Alive demonstration with award-winning illustrator Kazu Kibuishi, who will be drawing some of the Harry Potter characters on stage in this interactive panel hosted by Scholastic.
·Alook behind the scenes of the graphic props of the Harry Potter films with graphic designers, MinaLima
·A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo with unique and interactive exhibits from Warner Bros., Pottermore, Scholastic, MinaLima, Harry Potter: The Exhibition and Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, including the opportunity to try on the Sorting Hat
·Special kids’ discussions and interactive experiences such as an exciting duelling demonstration and wand combat masterclasswith Paul Harris, an interactive ‘Dance Like a Beauxbatons and Battle Like a Durmstrang’ experience, as well as Harry Potter film trivia
·Park guests can enjoy The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and TheWizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida plus the iconic Hogwarts Express that transports guests between the two lands if they have a park-to-park ticket
·Andmore!
Access to select events within “A Celebration of Harry Potter” is included in regular admission to Universal Studios. Admission to panel events will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Universal Orlando Resort to Celebrate Veterans Day with Eighth Annual In-Park Parade, Flag Raising Ceremony, and more!
In honor of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, Universal Orlando Resort’s Veterans Network – comprised of more than 400 team members – will march in a special parade at Universal Studios Florida on Monday, November 10. UOR will also commemorate Veterans Day with a flag-raising ceremony and a private lunch for Veterans and their families.
Members of several local organizations will join Universal Orlando’s veterans to mark the occasion, including representation fromall branches of the military, the American Legion, Orlando Police Department, area high schools’ JROTC Multi-Branch Color Guard and the UCF Color Guard. Several of Universal Orlando’s performers will also process through Universal Studios during the parade.
The parade will take place inside of Universal Studios Florida and begin at 11 am in front of Beetlejuice’s Graveyard Revue. The parade will travel throughout the park.
There will also be a Flag-raising ceremony will take place in NY area (Gramercy Park)
Rock the Universe Tickets Are On Sale Now for the Biggest Christian Music Festival in Florida, Featuring Performances by Switchfoot, tobyMac, Lecrae, Jeremy Camp, and More
Rock the Universe — Florida’s biggest Christian music festival — returns to the Universal Orlando Resort September 5 and 6 with faith-filled performances by more than 20of the most popular bands in Christian music. Enjoy incredible shows by hit artists such as Third Day, Switchfoot, Lecrae and tobyMac, as well as inspiring guest speakers, a candlelighting ceremony, access to unrivaled theme park entertainment and more.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_nNvmO25a4
Universal Orlando offers several Rock the Universe ticket options. The best way to experience all the fun and access to all of the concerts is with the “Rock Your Weekend” ticket, which includes admission to both nights of Rock the Universe and three days admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Island of Adventure. Tickets are available for purchase online through Sept. 6. See below for ticket options.
ROCK THE UNIVERSE 2014 OFFERS
(prices do not include tax)
BEST OFFER“Rock Your Weekend” Ticket
Pricing:o Groups of 10 or more: $108.99 per person
o Individuals: $120.99 per person
Admission to BOTH nights of Rock the Universe 2014
Three days admission to either Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure fromSept. 5 -7 (one park per day)
*Upgrade: Receive Park-to-Park access to BOTH Universal theme parks for just $40 more ($148.99 per person for groups; $160.99 per person for individuals)*
Rock the Universe 2014 Two-Night Ticket
Advance Pricing:
Groups of 10 or more:$88.99 per person
Individuals: $95.99 per person
Admission to Rock the Universe 2014 onbothFriday, Sept. 5 and Saturday, Sept. 6
Rock the Universe 2014 One-Night Ticket
Advance Pricing:
Groups of 10 or more:$52.99 per person
Individuals: $57.99 per person
Admission to Rock the Universe 2014 oneitherFriday, Sept. 5 or Saturday, Sept. 6
Check out the Rock The Universe Event Map
ROCK THE UNIVERSE 2014 LINE-UP
Friday, September 5(Praise & Worship)
Saturday, September 6(Rock & Hip Hop)
Third Day
Switchfoot
Newsboys
tobyMac
Jeremy Camp
Lecrae
Kari Jobe
Red
Soulfire Revolution
Family Force 5
Rend Collective
Andy Mineo
About A Mile
Tedashii
VERIDIA
Love & The Outcome
** Names in bold indicate headlining acts.
Guests who attend Rock the Universe 2014 will also enjoy the wildly popular Coca-Cola FanZone – where they can experience live music by additional artists such as Rapture Ruckus, Manafest, 7eventh Time Down, All Things New, David Dunn and Eva Kroon Pike, autograph sessions with the bands, karaoke and more. Guests can also experience some of Universal Studios’ most thrilling rides and attractions during Rock the Universe, including TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and more.
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And now, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.
Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk – enjoy the best in restaurants, live music, shopping, movies and more. And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.
Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram andYouTube.
‘Tis the Season to Create Lasting Family Memories at Universal Orlando Resort’s 2014 Holidays Celebration
Universal Orlando’s Holiday Offerings to include Grinchmas, Macy’s Holiday Parade and Electrifying Holiday Concerts by Mannheim Steamroller
Hotel Rates Now Available Featuring Savings of up to 30 Percent at Universal Orlando’s On-Site Hotels
Universal Orlando Resort is the perfect place for families to spend the holiday season. In addition to the pulse-pounding attractions and unforgettable experiences found at the theme parks, families can build lifelong memories together at Universal Orlando’s Holidays celebration.
Beginning Dec. 6 and running daily through Jan. 3, the Holidays at Universal Orlando features one-of-a-kind traditions for guests from one to 92 throughout the destination. At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, families will light up with holiday cheer as Grinchmas comes to life throughout Seuss Landing. Guests can enjoy a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s classic holiday tale, “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular,” featuring the Whos from Who-ville, accompanied by an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller. Guests can also meet The Grinch and the Whos and on select dates, enjoy a special breakfast with the characters.
At Universal Studios Florida, the Macy’s Holiday Parade will fill the streets every evening with the same larger-than-life balloons seen in Macy’s famous Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. This year, you won’t want to miss the Chloe The Clown “Balloonicle,” a new addition to the parade that combines a towering balloon with a self-powered vehicle that roams the streets of Universal Studios. Guests will also enjoy colorful holiday characters, fantasy-filled floats and a tree-lighting ceremony by Santa Claus.
This year, the masters of modern Christmas music—Mannheim Steamroller—will return to the stage to spread Christmas cheer. With more than 40 million albums sold worldwide, the acclaimed musical group will take to the Music Plaza stage in Universal Studios on select nights to perform their memorable holiday hits. Performance nights are Dec. 6, 7, 14, 15, 20 and 21.
All theme park holiday entertainment—including Mannheim Steamroller—is included with Park-to-Park admission to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
During their holiday experience, guests can also enjoy the extraordinary attractions and exhilarating entertainment that can only be found at Universal Orlando’s two theme parks – including The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and The Incredible Hulk Coaster at Islands of Adventure and TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and the all-new, spectacularly-themed environment, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios. This incredibly immersive area features shops, dining experiences and the next generation thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and expands upon The Wizarding of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, found at Islands of Adventure. Guests with Park-to-Park admission can journey between both lands aboard the Hogwarts Express, the iconic steam locomotive from the Harry Potter books and films.
New Year’s Eve at Universal CityWalk
It’s never too early to plan how you’ll ring in the New Year. At Universal’s CityWalk, guests can experience a dynamic New Year’s Eve celebration which includes non-stop entertainment, unique party zones—each with their own entertainment and signature drinks—along with six different clubs with live music, unlimited gourmet cuisine, and Orlando’s largest dance floor. Information about New Year’s Eve event tickets will be released at a later date.
For a memorable getaway, guests can take advantage of the following Universal Orlando Holiday Resort offer:
Offer
Details
SAVE up to 30% at one of our Spectacular On-Site Hotels**
**Minimum 3-night stay
Stay more nights and save up to 30% at on-site hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Average Nightly Rates as low as $106 per adult, per night
Deluxe on-site hotel guests enjoy even more benefits, including Free Universal Express Unlimited ride access so you can SKIP THE REGULAR THEME PARK LINES in both parks– a value of up to $89 per person, per day!
On-site hotel guests receive Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the theme parks open and complimentary on-site transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk
For more information on the Holidays at Universal Orlando, vacation packages and ticket offers, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/holidays
About Universal Orlando Resort Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And now, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.
Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk – a unique dining and entertainment complex featuring one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops and nightclubs. And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.
Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
A Celebration of Harry Potter event will be returning to Universal Orlando Resort January 30 – February 1, 2015
The Universal Orlando Resort is again partnering with Warner Bros. to host the second annual A Celebration of Harry Potter event from January 30 to February 1, 2015.
Harry Potter fans from around the world will once again come together to spend three days celebrating the Boy That Lived’s story!
While All general admission park guests will have the chance to experience the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo, attend Q&A sessions with Harry Potter film talent, and visit the all-new The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley you will have to wait in lines for the presentations and manage your time at the Expo. However the Team Members at the Universal Orlando Resort were super helpful!!!
If you want to make sure that you get the opportunity to attend all the presentations and want the chance to attend exclusive events, a limited number of exclusive event vacation packages—including annual passholder packages—will go on sale at noon (EST) on August 21.
These packages offer hotel accommodations, theme park tickets, and exclusive benefits including:
An exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade (one per person)
Reserved seating for select Celebration events
A specially themed Welcome Parcel
Complimentary commemorative merchandise item
Packages for “A Celebration of Harry Potter” at Universal Orlando Resort
On Sale at Noon EST on August 21, 2014
On-Site Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at $219 per adult per night, tax inclusive
3-night on-site hotel accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal Orlando Resort’s all-new retro-themed moderate & value priced hotel
3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
Complimentary on-site transportation to and from both theme parks and Universal CityWalk
Note: This package does not include complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access
On-Site Deluxe Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at $285 per adult per night, tax inclusive
3-night on-site hotel accommodations at one of Universal Orlando’s spectacular deluxe on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort
3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
Complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines in both theme parks for all three days – a FREE benefit worth up to $89 per person, per day
Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
Complimentary on-site transportation to and from both theme parks and Universal CityWalk
Universal Partner Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at $185 per adult per night, tax inclusive
3-night accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel near Universal Orlando
3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
Free scheduled transportation between the hotel and Universal Orlando Resort
Note: This package does not include complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access
To book special annual passholder event vacation packages, please call
Last year, these packages sold out within days!!! So if you want to be in the center of this celebration, make sure to set your alarms for noon (EST) on August 21, or buy your general admission theme park tickets for those dates now!
Universal Orlando Resort Announces Terrifying Original Haunted Houses and Street Experiences Coming to Halloween Horror Nights 24
Original Content from the Official Universal Orlando Blog!
The Twisted Minds of Universal’s Entertainment Team Have Created All-New Original Haunted Houses and Street Experiences that Will Immerse Guests into Living Nightmares
Universal Orlando Resort announced the three original concept haunted houses and two all-new scare zones that will join the killer line up of experiences at Halloween Horror Nights 24 at Universal Studios Florida.
All of these sound like some of my worst nightmares, but I can’t wait to see how they are presented at Halloween Horror Nights!!!
Deviously-inspired original haunted houses will terrify guests as they “die laughing” in Giggles & Gore Inc.
You can experience the terror of a community in cannibalistic turmoil in Roanoke – Cannibal Colony
Then finally, you will face the horrors within the decaying walls of the Dollhouse of the Damned.
Even more horrors fill the streets of Universal Studios as guests are hypnotized by deceptive patrons of a seemingly glamorous ball in MASKerade: Unstitched and surrounded by voodoo practitioners that fill the snake and spider-infested Bayou of Blood.
Original Content from the Official Universal Orlando Blog!
You can find out more details on these experiences, as well as a look into how they were created, by visiting the Official Universal Orlando Blog.
Also featured at Halloween Horror Nights 24 are disturbingly-real experiences based on some of the most outrageously terrifying, highly-recognizable names in entertainment and pop culture. Announced experiences include “The Walking Dead: The End of the Line,” based on AMC’s hit TV series, “From Dusk Till Dawn,” inspired by inspired by Robert Rodriguez’s cult film and El Rey network’s TV Series, “AVP: Alien vs. Predator,” based on the Twentieth Century Fox film franchise, “Dracula Untold: Reign of Blood,” based on Universal Pictures’ upcoming epic action-adventure film, “Face Off: In the Flesh,” based on Syfy’s TV series and “Purge: Anarchy,” a new scare zone inspired by Universal Pictures’ blockbuster thriller.
Additional announcements for even more horrifying experiences are coming soon.
Halloween Horror Nights runs 28 select nights from September 19 through November 1 and will feature eight blood-curdling haunted houses – including the largest haunted house ever created at Halloween Horror Nights, multiple spine-chilling street experiences with terrifying “scareactors,” two outrageous live shows and access to many of Universal Studios Florida’s most exciting rides and attractions.
About Universal Orlando Resort
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And now open, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.
Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk – enjoy the best in restaurants, live music, shopping, movies and more. And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.
Tickets and vacation packages for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando are on sale now at HalloweenHorrorNights.com\Orlando. More information about the event will be available soon. Updates on Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights are available on Facebook at Halloween Horror Nights – Universal Orlando and on Instagram at @HorrorNightsORL. Plus, fans can get exclusive updates from Creative Development Director Mike Aiello on Twitter at @HorrorNightsORL.
Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
DISCLOSURE: I was an invited guest of the Universal Orlando Resort, and I was provided with admission, lodging, and promotional items for sharing my opinions, experiences, and thoughts.
An Introduction To Diagon Alley
At The Universal Orlando Resort
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley has been open at the Universal Orlando Resort for a short bit of time, and I was lucky enough to have a few days to take a a look at this amazing new area as an invited guest of the Resort!
In Diagon Alley you can dine at the Leaky Cauldron, watch as the wand chooses the wizard at Ollivanders, see some amazing Wizards perform, shop for wizarding supplies, and more as you walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter in his Wizarding World.
So let’s see if I remember this correctly…Three up…two across…
Welcome to Diagon Alley!
Diagon Alley Attractions
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Height Requirement: 42 inches
While all of Diagon Alley is stunning, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is truly the area’s crown jewel!
As you approach Gringotts Bank, you are greeted by a 60ft, seven-ton, fire-breathing Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon who breathes fire every 15 minutes!
Inside the archway, you walk through the bank’s grand marble lobby and see several goblins hard at work.
Then you grab a pair of 3D glasses for your journey through cavernous passageways that lead deep underground as you climb aboard the mine trains of Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.
You’ll encounter Harry, Ron, and Hermione along the way, but you’ll have to evade the wrath of malicious villains Voldemort and Bellatrix as well as trolls and other creatures who stand between you and a safe return to Diagon Alley.
The Hogwarts Express
If you have a Park-to-Park admission ticket, you can pass through Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station in London, located inside Universal Studios Florida theme park, and travel to Hogsmeade Station, located inside Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park (right next door to Universal Studios). Or you can ride the train in the other direction!
This is the first time that Muggles have been allowed to board the Hogwarts Express, and it was quite the amazing trip!
Before you can board the Hogwarts Express at King’s Cross Station, you’ll have to get to Platform 9 ¾ just like Harry Potter did so make sure you have your cameras ready for this fun photo opportunity! Once you are on the platform, you will be waiting to see the famous scarlet engine that will take you on a trip through the British countryside to Hogsmeade.
During the trip to Hogsmeade, and back to London, make sure that you keep your eyes peeled for cameos from characters from the books in the windows and compartment corridors. This is the part that really makes you feel like you have jumped into Harry Potter’s adventure!
To board the Hogwarts Express from Hogsmeade, you just need to travel right outside of the Village of Hogsmeade to the stone station for your return trip to London and Diagon Alley.
Diagon Alley Dining
Leaky Cauldron
Cuisine: Cottage pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, Scotch eggs, stew, & much more.
Children’s Menu: Fish and chips, macaroni and cheese, and more.
Service Type: Pub Style
Dining Hours: Lunch and Dinner daily
The Leaky Cauldron offers a wide variety of British fare, Butterbeer, and the new specialty drinks of Diagon Alley in a setting that is fantastic.
The famous inn appears just as it does in the movie, including the amazing ceiling, so make sure you take a few moments to take in all the detail.
Pub Style of service means that once you order, you will receive your drink and be escorted to a table where you can relax and eat among fellow muggles!
Just in case you have a less than adventurous eater, the children’s menu is full of familiar favorites.
Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour
Cuisine: Scoop and soft-serve ice-creams, breakfast items, and drinks
Service Type: Counter
Hours: From park open to one hour before park closing
Magical displays of ice-cream cones welcome guests into this colourful, quaint ice-cream parlour where they can enjoy scoop and soft-serve ice-creams.
In the morning Florean Fortescue’s serves a continental breakfast with pastries, bottled Pumpkin Juice, teas, and water available.
There are some truly amazing flavors at Florean Fortescue’s!!! My next flavors to try are Chocolate Chili and Clotted Cream.
The Fountain of Fair Fortune
Cuisine: Diagon Alley Specialty Drinks, Custom Beers, and Muggle beverages
Service Type: Counter
Hours: From park open to one hour before park closing
The Fountain of Fair Fortune is also a great place to grab a Butterbeer, Frozen Butterbeer, Fishy Green Ale, Gillywater, Wizard’s Brew, Dragon Scale, Strongbow, Fuller’s London Pride, and Amstel Light.
The line to head into Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour are often times long, so if it is Butterbeer Ice Cream you seeking ducking into the Fountain of Fair Fortune is a better bet for grabbing this delight.
The Fountain of Fair Fortune, located across from the Magical Menagerie near Knockturn Alley.
The Hopping Pot
Cuisine: Diagon Alley Specialty Drinks, Snacks, and Muggle beverages
Service Type: Counter
Hours: From park open to one hour before park closing
Looking to grab a quick specialty Harry Potter drink and a light snack? Then The Hopping Pot is where you want to be!
This is an ideal location for a quick visit, because the line moves quickly and there are a ton of Team Members to speed things along!
While you are enjoying your beverage make sure you look up at all the advertisements!
Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment
Cuisine: Diagon Alley Specialty Gilly Water and Specialty Potions
Service Type: Counter
Hours: From park open to one hour before park closing
Water in Diagon Alley is ‘Gilly Water’, and it is available at several locations however you can take your Gilly Water experience to the next level by adding one of four potions to it for an additional $4.25.
The Four potions that you can purchase (with their corresponding flavors) are:
Fire Protection Potion: Watermelon
Babbling Beverage: Fruit Punch
Draught of Peace: Mixed Berry
Elixir to Induce Euphoria: Pineapple
Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment, located in the arcade across from the Carkitt Market stage.
Diagon Alley Shopping
Ollivanders
Ollivanders, makers of Fine Wands since 382 BC, Ollivanders, is one of the wizarding world’s premier wand shops and their Diagon Alley location is even bigger and better than ever!
You walk through hallways of thousands of towering wand boxes to be able to witness the magical experience of a wand choosing a wizard in a larger area.
You are also able to purchase your own unique Ollivanders wand, select one of the many Harry Potter character wand replicas, as well as interactive wands.
I will be sharing more about the interactive wands soon, but they are awesome and add a layer of amazingness to your visit to both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
Weasley’s Wizarding Wheezes
Photo: Universal
Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes is exactly what you have ever wanted and more!!!
Here in Fred and George Weasleys’ shop you will find magical jokes, tricks, toys, treats (including Skiving Snackboxes), Pygmy Puff naming ceremonies, and more in a fantastic and colorful setting!
You will find all kinds of mischief and fun in Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, but make sure you look up to find the never-ending fireworks and an appearance by Dolores Umbridge!
Magical Menagerie
First years who are looking for an owl, toad, or toad have all made their way to the Magical Menagerie!
The Magical Menagerie is full of amazing animals such as Hippogriffs, unicorns, a crumple horned snorkack, and other magical creatures depicted in the Harry Potter books and movies.
You can purchase a variety of plush toys including Crookshanks, Fang, Buckbeak, Fluffy and Scabbers, cats of every color, ravens, sleek black rats, and fat white rabbits that transform to and from a silk top hat.
Again, make sure you spend some time looking around the store and their windows of exotic animals!
Madame Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions
Looking for wizardwear to represent your Hogwarts house? At Madame Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions you will find a selection of authentic wizard’s robes, character costumes from the movies, and more.
Here is where you can buy your Hogwarts school uniforms, ties, scarves, sweaters, and cardigans. YOu will also find apparel, jewelry, and fashion items inspired by the four school houses of Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin.
There are also new wizard hats that are super fun!
I am seriously thinking that I may need some Ravenclaw wizardwear….
Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment
Located at the exit from Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment is full of wizarding wares and supplies in a celestial backdrop.
Crystal balls, telescopes, binoculars, armillary spheres, compasses, magnifying glasses and hourglasses line the shelves of this unique selection of apparel and accessory products from your favorite Hogwarts house!
Quality Quidditch Supplies
If you are looking for a place to purchase Quaffle balls, Quidditch brooms, Quidditch apparel and team souvenirs you have come to the right place!
Quality Quidditch Supplies is the destination to find everything you will need to play and be a fan of the most popular sport in the wizarding world!
Borgin and Burkes
When you head down into the darkness of Knockturn Alley, you can find shelves of Dark objects and Death Eater merchandise lining the shelves of this antiquated Borgin and Burkes.
The store is packed full of a fascinating, eclectic collection of Dark Arts objects and racks of Death Eater masks, skulls, and costume replicas.
The shop also sells apparel, accessories, jewelry, collectibles, and gifts.
It is definitely one of my favorite spots to explore in Diagon Alley!
Diagon Alley Special Places
Money Exchange
The Gringott’s Money Exchange is a separate location, next to Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment and across from Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment under the arcade in Diagon Alley, where you can exchange Muggle money for Gringott’s Bank Notes.
This is a really cool experience, because you get to interact with animatronic goblin who oversees the exchange of currency.
These Bank Notes can be spent anywhere, but I have a feeling that most people will save them instead of spending them.
Carkitt Market Stage
The Carkitt Market Stage under the arcade in Diagon Alley is where you can find some amazing entertainment options!
Guests will be able to watch as two of the The Tales of Beedle the Bard are performed by a troupe of four students from the Wizarding Academy of Dramatic Arts.
The Tale of the Three Brothers and The Fountain of Fair Fortune will be presented as a trunk show utilizing stylized props and puppetry from award winning designer Michael Curry.
Also, the Singing Sorceress: Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees will perform never-heard-before songs “A Cauldron Full of Hot, Strong Love,” “You Stole My Cauldron But You Can’t Have My Heart” and “You Charmed the Heart Right Out Of Me”.
As you can see Diagon Alley is full of some really unique and amazing places, and I can’t wait to share more about my adventures!
What are you most excited about seeing on your visit to Diagon Alley?
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