Your guide to summer fun at Universal Orlando with Shrek, Trolls, Kung Fu Panda
As the Florida sun ramps up its intensity, so does the excitement at Universal Orlando Resort. Summer 2024 brings a fresh array of new attractions, shows and culinary delights that promise to entertain park goers.
“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” said Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “These new experiences, coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks, will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable.”
Here's a sneak peek into what's new at Universal Orlando this summer.
DreamWorks Land
This new themed area at Universal Studios Florida features interactive play areas, character meet-and-greets, and attractions based on popular DreamWorks Animation franchises like “Shrek,” “Trolls” and “Kung Fu Panda.” The area includes an indoor live show, perfect for cooling off from the summer heat. Highlights include Shrek’s Swamp, the Trolls Trollercoaster, and Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp and DreamWorks Imagination Celebration, along with unique snacks and merchandise.
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CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular
This new nighttime show at Universal Studios Florida's lagoon combines advanced technology with beloved film scores. Featuring 228 fountains that reach heights of 131 feet, 4K projection mapping, an original score, and over 600 drones, the show highlights iconic moments from popular films including the “Harry Potter” franchise, “Jurassic World,” “Jaws,” “Ghostbusters,” “Trolls” and “Back to the Future.”
Hogwarts Always
On select nights at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure, this new projection show on Hogwarts Castle takes guests through a magical journey of a school year at Hogwarts. The show features four different endings celebrating each Hogwarts house and includes a pyrotechnic finale.
Universal Mega Movie Parade
Starting July 3, this new daytime parade at Universal Orlando will be the largest in the park's history. It will include 13 brand-new floats and nearly 100 performers, including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more. The parade will showcase characters from films like “E.T.,” “Back to the Future,” “Jaws,” “Ghostbusters,” “Jurassic World,” “Minions” and “Trolls.” Special effects and live performances will bring these classic movies to life. Keep an eye out for a 16-foot tall Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man, and for the grand finale, an awesome Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Summer tribute store
Rediscover your favorite movie memories from "Ghostbusters," "Back to the Future," "E.T. The Extra Terrestrial," "Jaws" and "Shrek" at the 1980s mall-themed tribute store, located in the Hollywood area of the park. While you shop, you'll also find three immersive "mega" rooms themed as a retro video store, an arcade and a theater, as well as photo opportunities inspired by the films. New for this summer are interactive bubble wands that activate with other wands throughout the park and certain parade floats.
Universal Orlando Resort is pulling out all the stops this summer to make sure every visitor experiences the magic, thrills and unforgettable moments the parks are famous for. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a Potterhead or a family with little ones, Universal Orlando’s summer 2024 lineup promises something special for everyone.
For more about the new experiences opening at Universal Orlando Resort this summer, visit universalorlando.com/newfor2024.
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Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/christinalafortune or send her an email at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Harry Potter light show, Trollercoaster and more at Universal Orlando
