Discover this week's thrilling theme park news as Groot and other Marvel superheroes invade Tokyo Disney!
Explore the current whirlwind of excitement at worldwide theme parks! First up, Tokyo Disneyland adds a charming Marvel twist to its iconic It's a Small World attraction. Over in Florida, Walt Disney World kicks off festival season with the much-loved Festival of the Arts at Epcot, while Space Mountain celebrates its 50th birthday at Magic Kingdom.
At Universal Studios Orlando, the buzz around "Wicked" is unstoppable, with a new look at its official shop, and the luxury Stella Nova hotel prepares to welcome its first guests as we eagerly anticipate Epic Universe's arrival.
Over in Southern California, Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood managed to stay open amidst the aftermath of the Los Angeles fires. Disney Studios, Paramount, the Academy Museum, and revival theaters are donating free family films and livestreams to help relieve areas impacted by the fires, so be sure to check out these offerings.
Let's escape the hustle and bustle with a thrilling POV ride-through of Tokyo Disneyland's "It's a Small World with Groot," or join Mulan, Mushu, and the characters of "Turning Red" for the Lunar New Year festivities at Disneyland Resort.
Also, don't miss the debut of visual artworks from Disney Wonderground artists like @YeseniaDraws and @DylanBonner90 at Epcot's International Festival of the Arts.
In Magic Kingdom, celebrate the iconic Space Mountain turning 50, while learning more about the trendy Stella Nova Hotel at Universal Studios Florida, which fits seamlessly within the future-inspired, celestial theme of Epic Universe.
Discover an immersive "Wicked" shopping experience at Universal Studios Florida, featuring props from the film and the latest merch. Sadly, character meet-and-greets have been discontinued, but here's hoping they'll return soon!
On a somber note, many theaters in Los Angeles are offering free screenings and charity events to aid relief efforts for those affected by the wildfires. Check out the links to learn more about the wonderful initiatives happening in LA.
Finally, keep your eyes peeled for the latest news on Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, and Doctor Who releases, and stay updated on developments within the DC Universe on both film and TV!
Enrichment Data:
Disneyland
- Lunar New Year Celebration: Disney California Adventure Park will host Lunar New Year celebrations with Asian-inspired food and a "Mulan" themed procession from January 17 to February 16. [1][5]
- Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite: A separately ticketed, themed evening event featuring unique projections, a ball with Disney prince and princesses, and a royal cavalcade on January 21, 23, and 28. [1][5]
Walt Disney World
- New Year’s Celebrations: Special fireworks displays and entertainment at Magic Kingdom and Epcot to ring in the new year from December 27 to January 2. [2]
- Epcot International Festival of the Arts: Celebrating visual arts, culinary arts, and live performances from January 17 to February 24. [2]
- Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend: A series of running events including a marathon, half-marathon, and other races from January 8 to 12. [2]
Universal Studios Orlando
- Rock the Universe: A Christian music festival featuring headline performances by popular Christian artists and bands on January 24 and 25. [3]
Universal Studios Hollywood
No specific events mentioned for Universal Studios Hollywood in the given sources.
The io9 website might feature articles discussing the future integration of technology in theme park experiences, such as the upcoming Epic Universe at Universal Studios Florida. In the future, the technology used in theme parks could greatly enhance visitor experiences, following the trend of blending digital and physical worlds.
Universal Studios Orlando's upcoming Epic Universe is designed with a future-inspired, celestial theme, aligning with the growing importance of technology and space exploration in the entertainment industry, as reported by io9.
