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Butterbeer Season coming to Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood
Posted by Megs

Universal has announced a brand new event to celebrate everyone’s favorite wizarding drink – Butterbeer. While this reporter is not a butterbeer fan (Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice is superior!) she knows many who will be excited about this news. Especially ice cream lovers who frequent Universal Studios Hollywood. Read the full press release below:

For the first time ever, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood will celebrate Butterbeer™ Season, offering fans and guests a chance to enjoy Butterbeer in all-new ways within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,™” beginning March 15 and continuing through April 30, 2024.

The celebration also marks the introduction of Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream counter within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood. Opening on Friday, March 29, the all-new venue, located in Honeydukes™, will feature 10 decadent and savory soft serve ice cream flavors, including Butterbeer, Banana, Chocolate, Mint, Orange, Vanilla, Toffee Nut, Granny Smith Apple, Pistachio and Toffee Apple, served in a cup or waffle cone.

With a flavor reminiscent of butterscotch and shortbread, Butterbeer is a perfectly fine-tuned Wizarding World treat that includes cold, frozen, hot and non-dairy Butterbeer beverages along with Butterbeer fudge, potted cream and ice cream.

Throughout Butterbeer Season, both destinations will roll out delectable treats, including an ice lolly which features the rich palate pleasing Butterbeer flavor in popsicle form, in addition to the traditional items served daily. Plus, new Butterbeer caramels will only be available at Universal Orlando Resort. For a limited time only during this festive period, cold and frozen Butterbeer will be available for purchase in a special collectible silver stein.

Those who wish to plan trips to Universal Orlando Resort should note there is currently a ticket deal going on! If you purchase a 2 day ticket you get 2 days free. The 2-Park Play 4 Days Promotional Ticket is valid for visits through December 18, 2024. Additionally, if you buy an annual pass now through September 27th, you will get 3 more months free!

Filed Under: Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Universal Studios Hollywood Announces “Taste of Universal” Event
Posted by Megs

This morning Universal Studios Hollywood has announced a new outdoor event, Taste of Universal, that will allow fans to enjoy elements of the theme park on the weekends. Universal Hollywood has been closed since last March due to the pandemic and this is the first time guests will be allowed back in, albeit with limited options. Rides, shows and attractions will not be operational but fans can look forward to delicious food, some shopping and even photographs with characters!

Admission tickets to “Taste of Universal” include access to select themed areas of the park along with a wide selection of nearly 70 choice culinary options. Tickets start at $44 plus tax for adults and $25 plus tax for kids ages 3-9 years. Discounted admission tickets will be available for Universal Annual and Season Pass members.

The full press release can be read below:

Universal Studios Hollywood Serves Up “Taste of Universal” Welcoming Guests Back to the Theme Park with the Dynamic Weekend Outdoor Dining and Shopping Experience, Beginning on Friday, March 12

The Special Event Will Offer First Looks at the All-New “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash” Attraction Shop, The Pets Store, and “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem’s” Minion Cafe, as well as Access to Such Popular Lands as Hogsmeade Village within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” and “The Simpsons’ Springfield, U.S.A.”

Universal City, California, March 4, 2021 – Universal Studios Hollywood takes its first step in re-opening with the introduction of “Taste of Universal,” a lively outdoor dining and shopping experience taking place within select themed lands on weekends—Friday to Sunday from noon to 7:00 p.m.—beginning on Friday, March 12.

Universal Studios Hollywood is working closely with local health and government officials to implement new health and safety procedures that include controlled capacity to enforce physical distancing and required face coverings.

This eagerly-awaited experience will invite guests to once again feel the thrill of strolling along the park’s signature red carpet as they pass through its iconic gates to enjoy some of the theme park’s best culinary offerings and premium shopping options along with physically distanced photo opportunities with some of their favorite characters. 

Admission tickets to “Taste of Universal” include access to select themed areas of the park along with a wide selection of nearly 70 choice culinary options, of which 30 are new to the event. Adults can choose five options and kids can choose three with additional food offerings available for purchase. Tickets start at $44 plus tax for adults and $25 plus tax for kids ages 3-9 years. Discounted admission tickets will be available for Universal Annual and Season Pass members. Visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for more information and to purchase tickets. 

While rides, shows and attractions will not be operational during this experience, guests will be able to take in the incredible environments that surround them as they enjoy the scrumptious food, including vegan and vegetarian options, served within these areas. This includes: 

  • “Springfield, U.S.A.” — Home of The Simpsons featuring Krusty Burger, Suds McDuff’s Hot Dog House, the Lard Lad Donut Cart and Kwik-E-Mart.
  • “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” — Stroll through Hogsmeade village and enjoy shops such as Honeydukes™, Ollivanders™, Owl Post™, Zonko’s™ Joke Shop, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, Dervish and Banges™, Gladrags Wizardwear and Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods, and feast on food favorites, including Three Broomsticks™ Fish & Chips, Sticky Toffee Pudding and Butterbeer.
  • The debut of Minion Cafe, a delicious new dining experience, located adjacent to the popular “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride, offering such tasty fare as Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Meatballs, Chicken & Bacon Mac and Cheese, and Nutella Banana pudding.
  • The Hollywood & Dine section will feature: 
    • Authentic Mexican fare at Cocina Mexicana with such favorites as Queso Street Tacos, Loaded Nachos all topped with choice of Tinga or Carnita & Birria, Tortilla Cut Chips with Guacamole, Chili Relleno and Elote Corn on the cobb with Lime Crema.
    • Hollywood & Dine, the establishment located just inside the theme park’s main entry, serving a selection of comfort foods including, Hot Chicken Sandwich, Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bowl, Personal Pizza with choice of pepperoni or cheese, Brisket Sliders with Caramelized Onions, Korean Hot Dog, and mini funnel cake.
    • City Snack Shop offering grab and go treats such as the quintessential NYC Giant Pretzel, Spicy Pomegranate Glazed Turkey Leg, and the debut of the Crepewich, which features sweet (Banana and Nutella, or Strawberry Chocolate) and savory (club or Spinach and Berry vegetarian) temptations. Yum! 

A highlight of the experience will invite guests to preview the very exciting “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash” attraction shop, The Pets Store, where guests can purchase favorite The Secret Life of Pets themed goodies.  Minion Way and Pets Place perpendicular streets located adjacent to Illumination’s “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and all-new “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash” rides will take guests on a stroll through the film’s scenic New York City streets as they explore the themed environment.

The Animation Store, home to Hello Kitty® and her friends from Sanrio®, including My Melody™, Keroppi™ and Chococat™, as well as Minions merchandise from Illumination’s, blockbuster Despicable Me film franchise, and DreamWorks Animation franchises including Trolls and Kung Fu Panda, will be among the park’s exciting shopping options. 

Physically distanced photo opportunities with select favorite characters will offer guests the chance to reconnect with Universal Studios Hollywood and share their experiences with friends and family via social media. 

Universal Studios Hollywood’s new health and safety protocols are outlined below and detailed on the Universal Studios Hollywood website.

  • Temperature checks for all Guests upon arrival. If temperatures exceed 100.4° Fahrenheit / 38° Celsius or greater, Guests will not be permitted to enter.
  • Face coverings required for all Guests throughout their visit. Face coverings also will be available for purchase.
  • Controlled capacity within the theme park, and limited occupancy at all CityWalk venues to help enforce physical distancing. Some areas and programs may remain temporarily closed.
  • Rigorous cleaning and disinfecting at all food locations, restrooms, and all other high touch points. 
  • Physical distancing practices at all locations throughout the park.
  • Eating and drinking permitted only in designated outdoor dining areas.
  • Contactless payment options wherever possible.
Filed Under: Universal Studios Hollywood, Wizarding World of Harry Potter
“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Sweets & Treats” at Universal CityWalk California
Posted by Megs

Universal Studios Hollywood may not be open at the moment due to covid restrictions but as of today fans will be able to enjoy some Wizarding World magic at CityWalk! Visitors will be able to purchase cold, frozen and hot butterbeer as well as butterbeer ice cream and more!

Universal CityWalk Introduces “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Sweets & Treats,” Offering Guests and Fans a Chance to Enjoy Magical and Delicious Confections and Snacks Just in Time for the Holiday Season, Beginning Friday, November 20

Universal City, California, November 20, 2020 – Here’s the scoop: Beginning Friday, November 20, Butterbeer favorites and more will be served at Universal CityWalk’s newest seasonal walk-up location, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™—Sweets & Treats,” offering fans a chance to enjoy the beloved beverage and ice-cream from Universal Studios Hollywood’s immersive land.

Traditional cold, frozen and hot Butterbeer along with delectable Butterbeer-flavoured hard pack ice-cream and Chocolate Frog confections will delight the palates of fans who have long craved these popular temptations from the theme park’s “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.” 

The Butterbeer beverages will be available for purchase in a cup or souvenir stein.  Gilly Water and classic cinnamon Churros will also be on the menu. 

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Sweets & Treats” will be open on weekends from Friday through Sunday during CityWalk’s operating hours, noon to 8:00 p.m.  Free self-parking is available to all guests during this initial re-opening phase. 

Inspired by the compelling stories and characters that were brought to life in the Warner Bros. films, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood is a masterful recreation, faithful to the visual landscape of the fiction and films, including as its iconic focal point, Hogwarts castle.  Now, for the first time and during this Holiday season, some of the iconic beverages and desserts featured in the land will be served for a limited time at this new and special Universal CityWalk location.

Universal CityWalk continues to work closely with local health and government officials to implement new health and safety procedures that include controlled capacity to enforce physical distancing.  Health and safety protocols are outlined below, highlighted in this video and detailed on the Universal Studios Hollywood website.

  • Temperature checks for all Guests upon arrival. If temperatures exceed 100.4° Fahrenheit / 38° Celsius or greater, Guests will not be permitted to enter.
  • Face coverings required for all Guests throughout their visit. Face coverings also will be available for purchase.
  • Controlled occupancy at all CityWalk venues to help enforce physical distancing. Some areas and programs may remain temporarily closed.
  • Rigorous cleaning and disinfecting at all food locations and all high touch points areas. 
  • Physical distancing practices at all locations throughout CityWalk.
  • Cashless payments and “no touch” policies wherever possible.
Filed Under: Universal Studios Hollywood, Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Universal Studios Hollywood Announces Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle Premiere Event
Posted by Megs

Universal Studios Hollywood has announced a premiere event for the Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle show. Get a first look at the new light projection show on Thursday April 11th and Friday April 12th. Tickets for the event are on sale now and there are two options:

Premiere Event ($199):

  • Event dates are April 11 and 12, 2019 only. Theme park will remain open until 11pm for this separately ticketed event.
  • Exclusive event entertainment begins at 6pm and ends at 11pm. Guests can enter the Park starting at 4pm to enjoy all available attractions. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ attractions, food and retail venues will be open during the event.

Premiere Event + GA Ticket ($249):

  • Event dates are April 11 and 12, 2019 only. Ticket valid on selected date of purchase only. Theme park will remain open until 11pm.
  • Guests can come in as early as Park opening and stay through the event. Check UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for Park hours.
  • Exclusive event entertainment begins at 6pm and ends at 11pm.  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ attractions, food and retail venues will be open during the event.

Click HERE to Purchase Tickets as they will Sell Out!

 Universal Studios Hollywood rolls out the red carpet for the “Dark Arts at Hogwarts™ Castle Premiere Event,” a special experience that offers fans a  first look at the new light projection show at “The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM” on Thursday, April 11 and Friday, April 12, 2019.

This premium evening event invites guests to be among the very first to experience “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” with exclusive, coveted after-hours access to Hogsmeade™ village, where fans can also explore the shops and experience the land’s signature rides, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™.” 

The event’s main attraction is an exclusive first-look at the all-new “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” projection display that brings to light an exciting new dimension of sorcery within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.”  A mesmerizing pageantry of light, music and special effects will unleash the darkest creatures and villains from the Wizarding World, including the powerful Dark wizard Lord Voldemort.  

Guests will be challenged to summon their inner strength and bravery in the face of the all-consuming Dark Arts as some of the awe-inspiring moments and creatures inspired by the films come to life within the majestic light display accompanied by an atmospheric musical score created by John Williams.

Additionally, guests will be treated to a premium catered feast of foods, beverages and desserts as part of this exclusive opportunity.
A new wand will also debut in conjunction with the exclusive event, offering fans a chance to purchase this limited edition memorabilia and add to their wand collection.

Event tickets are on sale now, which includes early entry to Universal Studios Hollywood, and are available to purchase here. Advance purchase is recommended as limited tickets are available, and event nights will sell out.

“Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” opens to the public on Saturday, April 13 and will continue through Sunday, April 28, 2019 at Universal Studios Hollywood.


Filed Under: Universal Studios Hollywood, Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Dark Arts are Coming to Universal Orlando Resort & Universal Studios Hollywood!
Posted by Megs

Death Eaters and Knockturn Alley lovers, rejoice! A powerful dark arts spell has been cast on The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, bringing a dynamic, all-new light projection experience to Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort!

The “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will illuminate Hogwarts castle at Universal Studios Hollywood nightly from April 13 – 28 and May 25 – 27.

Universal Orlando Resort’s will debut the Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle later this year with dates to be announced. We will keep you updated on any new developments for Orlando’s dates.

The full press release may be read below:

 Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort invite guests to experience an exciting new dimension of sorcery at “The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM” with the introduction of the “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle,” a powerful, original and breathtaking projection experience.

The “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will illuminate Hogwarts castle and “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” nightly from April 13 – 28 at Universal Studios Hollywood then return from May 25 – 27.
Universal Orlando Resort’s experience will debut later this year with dates to be announced at a later time. 

This exciting all-new experience in “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will cast a mesmerizing display of light, music and special effects, unleashing the darkest creatures and villains, including the powerful Dark wizard Lord Voldemort. 

Illuminating a darker side of the Wizarding World, this spectacular new light projection experience will be a departure from previous “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” and “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.” “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will bring more intense tones and drama that reflect the Dark creatures and wizards that challenge goodness in the Wizarding World. 

Guests will be asked to summon their inner strength and bravery in the face of the all-consuming Dark Arts as some of the awe-inspiring moments and creatures inspired by the films come to life within the majestic light display. 

As darkness falls on Hogwarts castle, Dementors™, Death Eaters and other unspeakable creatures from Aragog and Mountain Trolls to Thestrals will cloak the castle with sinister images from the darker side of magic—even conjuring the visage of Lord Voldemort™ himself, until the Patronus spell—one of the most famous, difficult and powerful defense of the Dark Arts charms in the wizarding world—is cast. 

The “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will be accompanied by an exclusive musical arrangement that will emanate in a surround sound environment. It was conducted by prolific arranger William Ross and recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra in London, based on the original scores composed for the film series created by Academy Award®-winning composer John Williams.

Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters that were brought to life in the Warner Bros. films, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort is a masterful recreation, faithful to the visual landscape of the fiction and films, including as its iconic focal point, Hogwarts castle.

From its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to the historic British sensibilities that characterize the whimsical look and feel of the land, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” transports guests of all ages to the very places they watched on the silver screen.

With so much to see and do at Universal Studios Hollywood, the all-new 2019 Season Pass invites guests to experience the fun throughout the year for $149 when purchased online. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for more details.  

At Universal Orlando, guests can take advantage of an unprecedented offer featuring up to six months free on any Universal Orlando Annual Pass if purchased before April 4, 2019. Click here for more details about Annual and Seasonal Pass options.

Filed Under: Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Snowfall is coming to “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter”
Posted by Megs

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is returning to Universal Studios Hollywood once again! This year they are adding “glistening snowfall” to enhance the holiday spirit! “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will take place daily from November 17, 2018 through January 6, 2019. This year includes the a cappella Frog Choir, special holiday collectibles, hot butterbeer, holiday-themed food and more!

The full press release:

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas at The Entertainment Capital of L.A. as Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk deck the halls with a wintry calendar of festive holiday experiences and an array of delectable treats that families and friends far and wide can enjoy.

The addition of nightly glistening snowfall to “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will enhance the yuletide spirit that resonates throughout the land as HogwartsTM castle transforms into a dazzling light projection spectacular and the quaint town of Hogsmeade village shines brightly with décor uniquely themed to each of the individual storefronts.

The annual holiday reunites the a cappella Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant throaty frogs, who return to entertain guests with their harmonized holiday themed songs.

A wide selection of custom-made Christmas ornaments created especially for “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will also be available. Collectibles include a variety of decorative Hogwarts castle snow globes, Hogwarts crest and mascot ornaments representing each of the houses, as well as a collection of unique tree toppers and house pennant garland.

Newly introduced holiday-themed fare and hot Butterbeer will further complement the overall experience.

“Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will take place daily from November 17, 2018 through January 6, 2019.

As night falls on Hogsmeade village, “The Magic of Christmas at HogwartsTM Castle” will illuminate Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with colorful imagery and impressive dimensional animations that dance across Hogwarts castle in tandem to a musical arrangement from the Harry Potter movies.

Grinchmas” returns to Universal Studios Hollywood with a Who-lebration of fun fit for The Grinch, his faithful dog Max and a roster of Who-ville Whos.  The annual event comes to life with a towering 60- foot tall whimsical “Grinchmas” tree where Martha May Who-vier and the Who Dolls will take center stage performing energetic musical sets to usher in the Christmas season in style.  The Who-liday Singers—a hip boy-band ensemble—will perform a cappella concerts featuring a mix of Christmas favorites and pop rock.

“Grinchmas” will take place weekends on December 1-2 and 8-9, and daily from December 14 through December 30, 2018.

Spirited holiday décor and festive whimsy will permeate throughout the theme park including “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and the adjoining “Super Silly Fun Land” as a crew of very merry and mischievous Minions gleefully spread Christmas cheer to visitors of all ages.

On Universal CityWalk a spectacular 40-foot tall Christmas tree will glisten with 200,000 LED icicles choreographed to the lights and sounds of the season in the 5 Towers plaza. Santa Claus will make daily appearances and offer special photo opportunities at 5 Towers.

The iconic, dancing water fountain situated at the heart of CityWalk will also make a splash this holiday season. This visually dynamic fountain, displaying over 230 individual power jets, will project streams of choreographed water into the air complemented by red and green LED lights and an array of holiday-themed music.

Free concert performances at “5 Towers” and an eclectic ensemble of talented street performers will make CityWalk the ultimate L.A. holiday destination.

The spirit of the season continues with a wintertime transformation of Universal CityWalk, beginning the day after Thanksgiving on Friday, November 23 through Tuesday, December 25, 2018.

The holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood is included in the price of theme park admission.  More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebookand follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

Admission to Universal CityWalk is free. More information available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com

Filed Under: Universal Studios Hollywood, Wizarding World of Harry Potter
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