Welcome back to another magical week of theme park excitement! Whether you’re planning your next vacation or just keeping up with the magic, here’s all the Disney and Universal news you need to know from the past week:
Disney News

Magic Kingdom
- Country Bear Musical Jamboree Soft Opens!
The newly reimagined show has soft-opened to guests with limited showtimes ahead of its official launch in July. Expect a toe-tapping mix of country hits and classic Bear charm. - Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Countdown Begins
Final testing is underway with cast member previews rolling out. Official opening is still set for June 28. Expect major crowds and potential early soft openings.
Epcot
- CommuniCore Hall & Plaza Now Open
The multi-use event space is finally open, bringing character meet-and-greets, festival booths, and live performances into Epcot’s center. - Luminous: The Symphony of Us
The new nighttime spectacular continues to wow with positive guest reviews. Grab a good viewing spot early!
Hollywood Studios
- Ahsoka Meet-and-Greet Begins
Ahsoka Tano is now meeting guests in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge near the old Mando/Grogu location. She rotates with other characters, so check the app for schedules. - Fantasmic! Returning to Full Show Length
After months of modified performances, Fantasmic! is back to full runtime with restored effects.
Animal Kingdom
- No Major Changes—but Summer Crowds Are Here
Early Entry is your best friend. Pandora continues to draw long lines, so rope-drop strategy is a must.
Universal Orlando News

Islands of Adventure
- New Nighttime Lagoon Show Debuting Soon
Universal teased a brand-new nighttime lagoon show premiering early July with projection mapping, fountains, and Universal IP. - Hogsmeade Refurb Update
Flight of the Hippogriff is back online after a short refurb. Hogsmeade remains the busiest area during early park hours.
Universal Studios Florida
- Villain-Con Minion Blast Gets Gameplay Update
The interactive blaster ride now has new scoring tweaks and improved tracking—easier to rack up higher points! - Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Hype Begins
Universal dropped a cryptic teaser hinting at the first haunted house announcement. Rumors swirl around Ghostbusters, The Last of Us Part II, and Slaughter Sinema.
Epic Universe Construction
- Dark Universe Castle Structure Revealed
New aerial photos show more of the gothic castle centerpiece in the Dark Universe land. The land is expected to include a Frankenstein-themed dark ride and immersive walkthrough experience. - Hotel Celestial Reveal Incoming?
Insiders suggest an official reveal for Universal’s on-site Celestial Hotel could drop before July 4 weekend.
Highlight of the Week

The Duquette Honeymoon Recap
Connor and Sara’s magical honeymoon included stops at Wilderness Lodge, Saratoga Springs, Typhoon Lagoon, and multiple rounds of Disney golf—not to mention STK, Cinderella’s Royal Table, and a trip to Universal. Read their full trip report in our latest post!
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Until next time—stay magical!




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