“Southern California Theme Park Roundup” Summer 2026 by Steve Zall and Sid Fish

2026, Calendar, Column, Theme Parks, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Here’s what’s happening this summer at our local theme parks:

Disneyland Resort Continues Its Historic 70th Anniversary Celebration with New Experiences at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Bluey’s Debut, an All-New Soarin’ Across America and Lots of Summer Fun on the Horizon

The 70th Anniversary Celebration runs through August 9, 2026;
Bluey’s Best Day Ever! ongoing at Fantasyland Theatre;
Soarin’ Across America starts July 2

There is plenty of magic to be had at the Disneyland Resort this summer. Two major ongoing experiences continue to draw guests through the warmer months, and the park is gearing up for an action-packed season ahead.

Disneyland Resort 70th Anniversary Celebration — Through August 9
The historic Disneyland Resort 70th Anniversary Celebration is still going strong and runs through its final day on August 9, 2026. Now is the last chance to enjoy signature anniversary entertainment, including the dazzling “Paint the Night” parade, the heartfelt “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular, “World of Color Happiness!” on Paradise Bay, and the joyful “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade.” Special 70th-themed touches remain visible across both parks, including interactive MagicBand+ locations, the Key to Disneyland lock stations, and anniversary décor throughout. After seven decades, this milestone celebration is in its final weeks — don’t miss it.

New Experiences at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge:

  • A brand-new mission debuts at Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run on May 22, 2026, in Disneyland Park, in celebration of the release of Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,” featuring expanded gameplay, potential adventures on three new destinations across the galaxy and appearances by the Mandalorian and Grogu.
  • For a limited time, visitors can also celebrate the release of the film by catching Grogu as he tests his power to recall memories of his adventures with The Mandalorian in “The Curious Child” playing after “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga.” 
  • BDX droids return to Disneyland Park on May 22, 2026, finding a home at Black Spire Station and making appearances in a new way.
  • New for 2026, Star Wars fans can now meet iconic characters from multiple eras of Star Wars history, including Darth Vader and Imperial Stormtroopers, Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, HanSolo and more. Beloved scores from legendary composer John Williams can also be heard in Batuu, pulling themes from the first six films. 

“Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” at Fantasyland Theatre
The newest and most talked-about addition to Disneyland Park is still going strong. “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” at Fantasyland Theatre debuted March 22, 2026, and continues to delight families with the beloved Australian animated character’s first-ever appearance at the resort. The family-friendly immersive show is included with park admission. An exciting new slate of merchandise is coming to the parks including youth and adult apparel, headwear, drinkware and more. 

Soarin’ Across America Takes Off: Beginning July 2, 2026, for a limited time, guests can take flight on an all-new airborne journey across some of the country’s most picturesque sights and landscapes in this exciting new attraction experience. 

Guests of all ages are invited to jump into the fun at Disney Friends Dance Party in the Disney Theater at Disney California Adventure Park! A high-energy mix of music keeps the dance floor moving, while surprise appearances by beloved Disney friends turn every moment into a celebration you won’t forget. The fun continues in Disneyland Park where guests can join Stitch and friends for a galactic good time with the return of“Stitch’s Interplanetary Beach Party Blast” at Tomorrowland Terrace. 

Families can take advantage of extra summertime savings with the Kids’ Summer Ticket Offer , offering tickets as low as $50 per child (ages 3 through 9) with a 1-Day, Park Hopper ticket for visits now through Sept. 7, 2026. Those looking to extend the magic can also take advantage of savings at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, including up to 15% off on select stays from Sunday-Thursday nights through Sept. 7, 2026.

Guests can keep up with the latest ticket and hotel offers at Disneyland Resort by visiting Disneyland.com/offers throughout the year. 

Located in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks — Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park — plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District. Open daily, year-round. For more information, visit Disneyland.com.

Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City
Gear Up for Summer

Knott’s Soak City Waterpark is now open
on select dates through September 7, 2026

With the Boysenberry Festival in the rearview mirror, Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park is shifting into summer mode. The park remains open daily with its full complement of rides, shows, and attractions — and the big news for the warm-weather season is the return of Knott’s Soak City.

Knott’s Soak City Now Open
Knott’s Soak City Waterpark is open on select dates through September 7, 2026, making it the perfect warm-weather companion to a day at the main park. The waterpark features thrilling slides, wave pools, and lazy river attractions for guests of all ages. Must-try rides include the Calico River Rapids circular raft ride and the Timber Mountain Log Ride back in the main park for guests who want a classic splash. Season passes include admission to Soak City on applicable dates.

Ghost Town and Full Thrills All Summer
The main park continues to operate with all of its headline coasters and family attractions, including Ghost Town Alive! returning for summer. Knott’s is also home to California’s first theme park, with rich Western heritage and entertainment woven throughout Ghost Town, Fiesta Village, and beyond. Summer Nights entertainment is expected to bring extended evening hours and special programming.

Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Hotel are located in Buena Park, Calif. Knott’s Berry Farm is open daily; Soak City is open on select dates through September 7. For more information, visit www.knotts.com.

LEGOLAND® California Resort’s All-New LEGO® Galaxy Land Is Open,
LEGO® Festival Returns July 20, and
the Water Park Is FREE This Summer

LEGO Galaxy and Galacticoaster are now open; Festival runs July 20 through August 30; Water Park included FREE with Resort Hopper visits through June 30, 2026

If you haven’t made it out to LEGOLAND California Resort in Carlsbad yet this year, now is the time. The park’s stunning new LEGO® Galaxy land — its biggest expansion in over a decade — is fully open, anchored by the Galacticoaster, the park’s first indoor roller coaster in nearly two decades. And for a limited time this summer, the Water Park is included free with Resort Hopper visits.

Galacticoaster: Customize Your Mission
The Galacticoaster is unlike any family coaster you’ve ridden before. Before boarding, your group designs a custom digital LEGO spacecraft at build stations inside the LEGOLAND SPACEPORT 886 briefing room — choosing from nose, tail, wing, and special-feature options across 625 possible combinations. Your spacecraft then appears on screens as you blast off through nearly 1,500 feet of indoor track. The ride is included with general park admission and all annual passes.

Two Additional Rides, Play Zones, and Cosmic Dining
LEGO Galaxy is more than just the coaster. The land also features two additional space-themed family rides, a Junior Astronaut Training Zone for younger guests, character encounters, a LEGO building experience, themed food offerings, and a galactic retail shop. It’s the park’s most immersive storytelling land to date.

All park-goers can now take command of their own cosmic adventure. Here’s what awaits in LEGO Galaxy at LEGOLAND California Resort: 

  • Galacticoaster – In this indoor family rollercoaster, guests work in teams of four to design their own spacecraft at Customization Bays by digitally selecting the nose, tail, wings, and a special feature-such as a disco ball or balloons-resulting in more than 625 unique spacecraft combinations. Space Cadets scan their spacecraft key (an RFID wristband) that allows them to see themselves “riding” in the vehicle they designed. The experience begins in an immersive queue with interactive pre-shows and a briefing from Biff Dipper, the Park’s first robotic minifigure, before launching into twists and turns up to 40 mph, featuring LEGO Space sets from past, present, and future, cinematic storytelling, and onboard sound and lighting.
  • G-Force Test Facility – This family-friendly ride challenges guests to swing, turn, and tilt through forces like those that astronauts experience in space. It’s a thrilling, active adventure that adds motion-packed excitement to LEGO Galaxy.
  • DUPLO® Launch and Land – Perfect for younger explorers, this flight-training simulator lets toddlers and small children practice their first “take-offs” and “landings” in a safe, playful space environment.
  • Junior Astronaut Training Zone – A dedicated toddler play area designed for imaginative cosmic adventures, giving the youngest guests a chance to stretch their space legs and explore LEGO Galaxy on their own terms.
  • Rocket Assembly Bay – This state-of-the-art LEGO building zone is where guests can build a LEGO rocket and then digitally scan it and blast it into cyberspace!
  • Galactic Dining and Retail Experiences – From U.F.O. (Ultimate Food Outlet) with intergalactic fare like Nebula Noodles and Stellar Crusts, to Stardust Sips & Sweets for cosmic desserts, and Satellite Bites for quick refueling, guests can eat like astronauts. The land’s Orbital Outpost offers exclusive LEGO Galaxy merchandise and souvenirs to commemorate each mission.
  • Additional Experiences Around the Park: Mission: Blast Off! – At the Fun Town Stage, guests can join Space Creature and their cosmic crew for an energetic, interactive dance party. Families become honorary Cadets and help power up the spacecraft, guided by Space Creature, host Stella Vega, and the Astro Dancers. The show runs three times daily and includes a full cast meet-and-greet for guests to enjoy.

 LEGO® Festival Returns July 20 through August 30, 2026 – inviting families to step into a festival experience designed for kids to spark creativity, self-expression and the simple joy of playing together. 

In this next iteration of the festival of play there are five interactive zones, including new content for fan favorites in the Music, Creative and Chill-Out Zones, alongside brand-new headliners in the Thrill and Play Zones, perfect for guests seeking unique and unmissable experiences at the festival.  

Guests will kick off their day of awesomeness with their LEGO Festival wristband, collected on arrival, and a festival map. These colorful guides unlock the full festival experience, marking guests as an official festival goer ready to play, explore, and celebrate creativity across the Park all day long. 

Not only that, for extra LEGO Festival bragging rights, guests can participate in the 3 Build Challenge and collect stamps on the LEGO Festival map as they conquer each zone. It’s as easy as Build, Collect, Reward – those completing three or more exclusive LEGO Festival brick-building activities, can pick up a 3‑in‑1 LEGO® Creator gift before heading home, while supplies last. Plus, there’s a LEGO Insiders points giveaway available for grown-up builders too.

Across the festival site, guests can enjoy themed play zones with hands-on brick-building activities, photo-worthy LEGO models, live shows, family challenges and a chance to meet many different LEGO characters.

Guests can expect:

  • Music Zone: Turn up the volume and rock out in the Music Zone featuring the “Battle of the Bands” show, where Rockstars and Popstars go head-to-head. Take center stage in a high-energy space for kids to join in and sing along. Families can also add to a large festival mosaic build, spot selfie-friendly LEGO models, and meet characters including Melody Raye and Lyric Santos after the show.
  • Creative Zone: Get hands-on in this unique building zone designed to help kids test ideas and see creations take shape. All-new highlights include The Creatureverse brick build tables and Master Model Builder sessions such as “The Anything Animal” and “Let’s Create a Creature.” Plus, photo moments with the festival LEGO® Panda and LEGO® Peacock that guests can add LEGO brick build “feathers” to – it’s a colorful, creative playground.
  • Chill-Out Zone: Unwind and explore the serenity of a secret garden in this quieter zone designed for a peaceful, plant-filled escape. In LEGO® Botanicals “Build & Bloom,” guests can build a LEGO Botanicals flower and add it to a growing display including LEGO brick butterflies and bug build – brand new for 2026.  There’s also a Gardener LEGO model to meet and the “Playtime with Hopsy” chill-out stage show.
  • Thrill Zone: Hold on to your nerve for this soon-to-be-announced sports-themed, high-energy Thrill Zone planned for 2026!
  • Play Zone: Power up in the “ultimate gaming fan zone” experience to be revealed soon. 

Guests can refuel with new LEGO Festival-themed food and drink, including the Brick Popsicle, available in 2 different flavors – strawberry and mango. Families can also visit the LEGO Shop to browse the latest sets featured across all the zones and pick up exclusive LEGO Festival merchandise to keep the play going at home.

With the Festival included in the standard admission, guests can enjoy over 60 rides, shows and attractions that make LEGOLAND® California an epic day out where families can make lifelong memories. For those wanting to extend their fun, the LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel  are just steps from the Park’s entrance and offer guests complimentary daily hot breakfast, nightly kids’ entertainment and fully themed rooms, including the new LEGO® City themed rooms!
LEGO Festival is included with general admission. LEGOLAND California’s 2026 operating calendar can be found here. For more information about LEGOLAND California, visit LEGOLAND.com/California or follow us on Facebook.

Water Park FREE Through June 30
For a limited time, the LEGOLAND Water Park is included free with Resort Hopper visits through June 30, 2026 (offer ends June 7 — act fast!). Families staying at LEGOLAND Hotel or LEGOLAND Castle Hotel can also take advantage of the Kids Stay & Play FREE package with 2-Day Adult Tickets, available for select dates through mid-June and again from May 25 to June 12.

LEGOLAND California Resort and Sea Life Aquarium are located in Carlsbad, Calif. LEGOLAND California’s 2026 operating calendar can be found here. For more information, call 760-444-5600 or visit www.legoland.com/california.

SeaWorld San Diego Kicks Off Summer Spectacular with Nighttime Animal Experiences, First Drone Show, All-New Shark Encounter and the Return of Its Concert Series

Annual Pass Members can return time and time again throughout the summer to enjoy everything the park has to offer

SeaWorld San Diego is rolling into one of its biggest summers yet. The Summer Spectacular Concert Series kicks off this weekend, Viva La Música is underway, and a brand-new animal attraction is on the horizon.

SeaWorld San Diego unveils its best summer line up ever during Summer Spectacular with a vibrant slate of day‑into‑night excitement, including the debut of new nighttime animal experiences featuring orcas, dolphins, and sea lions; a show‑stopping drone spectacular; the grand opening of Shark Encounter and launch of Dolphin Adventures; the return of its highly anticipated summer concert series headlined by top artists from 90s and early‑2000s hip hop and R&B, and more.

Summer Debuts:

  • ALL-NEW: Ocean of Dreams Drone Show – This groundbreaking 12-minute, immersive experience lights up the night sky with 600 fully synchronized drones set to a soaring soundtrack, celebrating the beauty of the ocean and its incredible marine life. Guests will be taken on a breathtaking journey beneath the waves, with vibrant aerial formations bringing to life animals like dolphins, sea otters, sharks and a majestic orca, all culminating in a dazzling neon finale inspired by ocean conservation and wonder.
  • ALL-NEW: Shark Encounter –The all-new Shark Encounter invites guests face to face with jaw-dropping sharks from 11 remarkable species in a refreshed, interactive experience that journeys from sunlit shores to the depths of the ocean. Guests enter through a lush coastal scene filled with sharks and colorful fish, where they can observe sharks from above, explore educational displays, learn about conservation, and even participate in shark feeding. Deeper inside, the exhibit transforms into a breathtaking underwater world, where sharks glide overhead in an awe-inspiring 180-degree viewing experience.
  • ALL-NEW: Dolphin Adventures – Featuring fresh music, vibrant staging, and a cast of scene stealers—including dolphins, pilot whales, and the ever playful next generation of dolphins—this reimagined show bursts with personality from beginning to end. Guests can expect high-energy moments, uplifting interactions, and unforgettable displays from some of the ocean’s most charismatic animals.
  • ALL-NEW: The Wonders of North American Wildlife! – This engaging and educational presentation highlights the incredible diversity of native wildlife across North America, comparing and contrasting species from different regions while sharing inspiring rescue and rehabilitation stories. Guests will gain a deeper appreciation for these animals and learn how conservation efforts help protect them in the wild.
  • ALL-NEW: Deep Sea Disco! – Dance the night away every night of summer under the glow of SkyTower lights as the Rhythm of the Reef dancers bring high-energy fun to the ocean floor. Guests can join in as dancers teach the coolest under-the-sea moves, building up an exciting, can’t-miss finale performance that keeps the party going all night long.

ALL-NEW Nighttime Animal Experiences 
Beginning June 12, this summer introduces three all-new nighttime animal presentations, blending fun, education, and energy:

  • ALL-NEW: Shamu Celebration: Light Up The Night showcases the power, beauty, and grace of killer whales in a way that captivates audiences of all ages and inspires them to take an interest in wildlife and conservation.
  • ALL-NEW: Dolphins: Touch the Sky featuring playful bottlenose dolphins, inspiring storytelling, and an energetic soundtrack that celebrates the connection between humans and the natural world. 
  • ALL-NEW: Sea Lions Tonite launched in spring and continues to bring even more laughs, personality, and fast-paced comedy as SeaWorld’s beloved sea lions take center stage with all-new surprises.

Returning Fan-Favorites

  • BMX Blast! Powered by BODYARMOR Stunt Show – BMX Blast! is a high-energy stunt show celebrating the history of extreme sports in Southern California. Sing along as a live band cranks out the pop-punk hits of the late nineties while world class stunt riders showcase tail whips, bar spins and back flips. Guests won’t want to miss these big tunes, big ramps and big air! 
  • Pirates Ahoy! The Battle for Mermaid Cove – The sword-swinging pirates make their grand return for an even more action-packed escapade this summer. Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with this spectacular water stunt, Pirates Ahoy! Watch as daring pirates battle against mesmerizing mermaids in a thrilling display of water stunts and acrobatics. This action-packed stunt show will have guests on the edge of their seats and fully immersed in the alluring world of mermaids and pirates.

2026 SeaWorld Summer Spectacular Concert Series
The 2026 Summer Concert Series takes place every Saturday (except July 4) from June 6 to August 29 at 6 pm for an unforgettable musical journey featuring R&B, hip-hop and rap hits from the ’90s and early 2000s. With the bay’s scenic views as a stunning backdrop, this is the ultimate spot to move to the sounds that defined a generation. Musical performances include:

  • Saturday, June 6 – Ying Yang Twins
  • Saturday, June 13 – Ginuwine
  • Saturday, June 20 – Bow Wow & Dem Franchize Boyz
  • Saturday, June 27 – Pop 2000 Tour
  • Saturday, July 11 – E-40
  • Saturday, July 18 – Ashanti
  • Saturday, July 25 – Soulja Boy & Paul Wall
  • Saturday, August 1 – Jordin Sparks
  • Saturday, August 8 – Too $hort & Warren G
  • Saturday, August 15 – Saliva
  • Saturday, August 22 – Uncle Kracker
  • Saturday, August 29 – Skillet

All concerts are included with park admission and those looking to secure a great seat can opt to purchase reserved seating in advance. Reserved seating can be purchased at https://seaworld.com/san-diego/events/concert-series/.

Unlimited Visits and Unlimited Summer Fun with an Annual Pass
The best way to play and experience all the Summer Spectacular concerts, entertainment and fun is with an Annual Pass. Pass Members receive unlimited visits for a year with benefits including special savings on merchandise, Quick Queue, reserved seating and more.

For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.seaworldsandiego.com. Follow SeaWorld onFacebook and Instagram for the latest Summer Spectacular details and information.

Six Flags Magic Mountain Debuts Looney Tunes™ Land This Summer and Launches DC™ Heroes & Villains Fest

DC™ Heroes & Villains Fest runs Fridays–Sundays,
June 5–July 4, 2026;
Looney Tunes Land opening later this summer

Summer has officially arrived at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, and the park is celebrating with two major happenings: the launch of the DC™ Heroes & Villains Fest and the imminent grand opening of the all-new Looney Tunes™ Land.

DC™ Heroes & Villains Fest — Now Through July 4
Running on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through July 4, 2026, the DC™ Heroes & Villains Fest is underway at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Fans of all ages can immerse themselves in the DC universe with exclusive character appearances — from Batman and Wonder Woman to The Joker and Harley Quinn — electrifying live shows, themed food and drinks, and of course, an unprecedented lineup of DC-themed rides and attractions. It’s the perfect way to kick off summer at the Thrill Capital of the World.

Looney Tunes™ Land — Opening This Summer
The park’s most exciting new development is nearly complete. Looney Tunes Land, a full reimagining of the classic Bugs Bunny World family area, is set to debut this summer 2026 in celebration of the park’s 55th anniversary. The land will be divided into four immersive zones: Bugs Bunny Play Park at the center, Taz-Mania with a tropical landscape and a re-themed train ride, Road Runner’s New Mexico desert zone featuring the eternal chase between Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote, and Daffy Duck’s High Sierra mountain cabin area. The transformation has been underway since January and represents Six Flags’ largest family-area investment in decades.

Six Flags Magic Mountain is located in Valencia, Calif. The park is open year-round on select days. For more information and event schedules, visit sixflags.com/magicmountain.

Universal Studios Hollywood’s Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift Is Almost Here —
The Most Anticipated New Ride in Years

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift opens summer 2026 — the fastest coaster in the Universal Destinations & Experiences
portfolio at 72 mph

The buzz at Universal Studios Hollywood right now is all about one thing: Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. The park’s first-ever high-speed outdoor roller coaster is set to open this summer 2026 and is shaping up to be one of the most technically innovative theme park attractions in the history of Southern California.

Universal Studios Hollywood unveils the four ride vehicles that will comprise each of the “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” trains as the theme park puts on final touches for this innovative, first-ever high-speed outdoor roller coaster, opening this summer.

The ride, which pays homage to the franchise’s suspenseful and meticulous choreography created for the edge-of-your-seat driving sequences, will offer guests a chance to step into one of the four ride vehicles, modeled after the cars driven by some of their favorite Fast & Furious characters in the film series, to experience the energy and thrill of the films’ street racing for themselves.

Within the load platform, the ride vehicles will be set against an original large-scale mural created by world-renowned artist Tristan Eaton. The freehand, spray-painted mural will be splashed across an interior brick wall and will depict the finale street racing scene in the original film with a montage of the aerial-bound Dodge Charger and Toyota Supra vehicles racing against a speeding train.

Included within this mural is a homage to Vin Diesel’s character Dominic Toretto. The mural simultaneously conveys a sense of adrenaline as guests prepare to be transported into Universal Pictures’ exhilarating Fast & Furious universe.

At a glance, here is a look at the design inspirations for the four “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” ride vehicles:

  • Dodge Charger. This iconic ride vehicle is inspired by Dominic Toretto’s signature car featured throughout the film franchise. With its sleek black frame, this souped-up, 900-horsepower, 1970 Dodge Charger is considered the ultimate American muscle car.
  • Mazda RX-7.  This ride vehicle is inspired by the 1997 model car driven by Han Seoul-oh. Featuring 19-inch wheels, racing seats, upgraded suspension and custom interior detailing, the Mazda RX-7 is considered one of the most iconic cars in the Fast & Furious film franchise.
  • Nissan Skyline GT-R. This ride vehicle is inspired by Brian O’Conner’s 2002 blue Nissan Skyline GT-R which was enhanced with extensive performance and styling modifications and is renowned for its unique appearance.
  • Toyota Supra. This ride vehicle is inspired by Brian O’Conner’s orange 1994 car featuring the legendary 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo inline-six engine. O’Conner owed Toretto a “10-second car,” and this one more than delivered on that promise. It is recognized as one of the most memorable cars in the film franchise.

“Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” will be located on the Upper Lot of Universal Studios Hollywood and is modeled after an expansive red brick, garage-like structure. It will feature groundbreaking 360-degree rotation technology designed to create a seamless sensation of drifting cars as guests spin in motion at speeds up to 72 mph, while careening along 4,100 feet of elaborate aerial track—the equivalent of nearly 12 football fields—that winds its way over sections of the theme park, including the multi-level Starway escalator that connects the Upper and Lower Lots.

Details and Opening Timeline
The ride queue features replicas of stunt vehicles and props from the films, along with storyboards and an original freehand mural by world-renowned artist Tristan Eaton depicting the finale street racing scene from the original Fast & Furious. Sound-reducing technology has been built into the track to keep the ride quiet for nearby soundstages, while in-headrest speakers deliver immersive engine sounds to riders. Universal Studios Hollywood has confirmed the coaster will open this summer but has not yet announced a final opening date. An opening date briefly appeared on the official website on June 5 before being removed; Universal stated it was posted in error and to “stay tuned for more to come.” This is easily the most anticipated park opening in Southern California this season.

Mega Movie Summer – June 13 through August 9
This summer, Universal Studios Hollywood turns up the excitement with the return of Mega Movie Summer, a fan-favorite seasonal celebration featuring an exciting lineup of entertainment, food and exclusive merchandise inspired by some of the most iconic and upcoming films from Universal Pictures and Illumination. The limited-time event kicks off on Saturday, June 13 and continues daily through Sunday, August 9, 2026, and is included in the price of theme park admission.

Universal Studios Hollywood is also offering guests a chance to experience two of the best days in L.A. with the Buy A Day, Get A 2nd Day Free General Admission ticket. Guests can purchase this ticket online at the Universal Studios Hollywood website and enjoy their second day free, with all visits completed on or before December 16, 2026. The first visit is valid on the guest’s selected date. Blockout dates apply to the second visit. Additional restrictions apply.

This year’s Mega Movie Summer activations leap from silver screen into the theme park through a series of exclusive and immersive activations inspired by the upcoming Minions & Monsters film from Illumination, opening in theatres on July 1, cinematic experiences inspired by Christopher Nolan’s new mythic action epic The Odyssey, opening in theatres on July 17, the momentous 25th anniversary celebration of the Fast & Furious Sagaand the return of spellbinding characters, Elphaba and Glinda from Wicked and Wicked: For Good.

Inventive seasonal food and beverage offerings curated by Universal Studios Hollywood’s Executive Chef, Julia Thrash, will complement Mega Movie Summer’s compelling entertainment that will surely offer guests a chance to experience the best summer day in L.A.

At a glance, this is Mega Movie Summer 2026:

  • Illumination’s Minions & Monsters brings the film’s all-new Minions stars, Henry and James, to Super Silly Fun Land near “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” featuring interactive guest experiences and an energetic Minion Dance Party.

An all-new parks’ exclusive Minions & Monsters-themed merchandise collection will be available for purchase, including an all-new Shoulder Pal themed to new monster character Goomi from the film, blind box figures, apparel, accessories and more, just in time to celebrate the theatrical release of the film.

The Minions Cafe willserve an array of vibrant new treats, including Howard’s Berry Lemonade Cupcake and James’ Carbonara, a cavatappi pasta tossed in a garlic cream sauce with pancetta and peas. Despicable Delights offers Irene’s Orange Banana Float, a new delectable frozen beverage.

  • Celebrate The Odyssey at Universal Studios Hollywood with epic, behind-the-scenes moments tied to the groundbreaking cinematic adaptation of Homer’s foundational saga, written for the screen and directed by Christopher Nolan. One of the original ships featured in the film will be on display exclusively along the world-famous Studio Tour. Insightful footage and filmmaker interviews will play on the tram monitors, offering fans a closer look at the making of this cinematic adventure.
  • Universal Studios Hollywood joins Universal Pictures in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Fast & Furious film franchise and its high-speed legacy with a dazzling display of authentic picture cars from the films within Universal Plaza. A rousing hip-hop performance by the Street Racers dance show and a daily DJ will bring a new level of energy to the scene, adding to the excitement as the countdown continues to the eagerly awaited opening of the theme park’s “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” roller coaster this summer.

Fans can also shop for new merchandise celebrating the anniversary at the 101 Exchange store, located adjacent to “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.”

Hollywood & Dine, located near the park’s main entrance, shifts into high gear by transforming into Drift & Dine, offering a Fast & Furious–themed, limited-time menu, that will include such items as L.A. Drift Dog, BBQ Chicken Platter, Fried Elote Corn Dog, BBQ Corn Ribs, Quarter Mile Funnel Cake and Street Cart Watermelon and Pineapple. The Cocina Mexicana restaurant, located adjacent to “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” will offer shareable La Familia Meal, bringing bold flavors and family-style dining to Mega Movie Summer.

  • Guests and fans of Universal Pictures’ global cinematic phenomenon, Wicked and Wicked: For Good, can once again defy gravity with beloved Elphaba and Glinda character meet and greets at the vibrantly themed photo op, located near the DreamWorks Theatre. A selection of Wicked parks exclusive merchandise will also be available for purchase, including Spirit Jerseys, plush and more.
  • As guests prepare to dive into summer, Steven Spielberg’s landmark thriller, Jaws readies to take a bite out of Mel’s Diner with a specially themed menu serving up returning favorites such as the Shark Bait Burger, Lobster Roll, Fish & Chicken Basket and Amity Island Funnel Cake. Plus, Studio Scoops, located on the lower lot, debuts the Hello Kitty Jaws Blueberry Cheesecake Sundae.

A selection of exclusive Jaws-inspired merchandise, including a new Loungefly crossbody bag, apparel and accessories will also be available for purchase.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood joins the celebration of Mega Movie Summer with a lineup of limited-time offerings, including:

  • The impressive 34-foot-tall Trojan Horse from Christopher Nolan’s upcoming 2026 film The Odyssey arrives at Universal CityWalk Hollywood for a limited-time appearance, beginning in July, located in front of the Universal Cinema AMC.
  • NBC Sports Grill & Brew offers bold flavors with its new menu options in honor of Fast & Furious 25th Anniversary, featuring the Full Throttle Teriyaki Burger, Drift Tandem Skewers, Car Meet Platter and a refreshing new cocktail, the Nitrous Boost.
  • The authentic Mexican cuisine destination, Antojitos Cocina Mexicana, serves two new flavorful dishes inspired by Fast & Furious – the Birria Burger and La Familia Platter, plus a refreshing tequila-based cocktail.
  • Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville offers up island vibes with two Jaws-themed items, Beachside Melt and the Forbidden Waters cocktail.
  • Voodoo Doughnut brings a playful twist with a lineup of whimsical Minions & Monsters inspired Doughnuts – the Banana Cream Mayhem Doughnut and the Minions & Monsters Mischief Doughnut.

For more information about Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X and like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook.

Universal Studios Hollywood is open daily. For more information on tickets, annual passes, and the latest Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift updates, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.

Wishing everyone a wonderful summer season at the parks!