Universal has brought back one of its most beloved features for the summer, featuring multiple popular IPs.
In the modern-day theme park wars, IP is everything. While Disney has gone all-in on the likes of Frozen, Pixar, and Star Wars in recent years, Universal's projects have spanned the likes of Jurassic World, Minions, Universal Classic Monsters, and more.
Universal Mega Movie Parade Returns
As of today, Universal has put these IPs back on display with the return of its Universal Mega Movie Parade.
The parade showcases 13 elaborate floats and nearly 100 performers, including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, and poi artists. Highlights include a 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man from Ghostbusters, a vibrant Trolls (20 float with a colorful Caterbus, a Jaws-themed float accompanied by a live marching drum line, and a Jurassic World float featuring a towering Tyrannosaurus rex.
While it's recently been on hiatus, we can confirm that the ride is totally back in action.
The vast majority of the parade remains unchanged from its previous iteration. Today, however, the key difference is that you won't find Kung Fu Panda or Trolls floats in the parade.
The Universal Mega Movie Parade will run daily through April 24, with additional performances on April 26–27, May 1, May 3–8, and May 10–15. It will then operate daily from May 18 to August 26. After that, the parade continues on August 28, followed by shows every Monday and Tuesday throughout September and October, and from November 3 to 13.
At this point, the show likely begins its transition to Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. This Christmas celebration starts on November 21 and runs through December 31, 2025l
Latest Universal Updates
Universal Destinations & Experiences is embarking on an ambitious expansion, introducing new attractions tailored for diverse audiences. Central to this initiative is the upcoming Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, set to open on May 22, 2025. Spanning 750 acres, this park will feature five immersive lands: Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe.
Highlights include the Stardust Racers dual-launch coaster, the interactive Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ride, and the innovative Mine-Cart Madness in Donkey Kong Country.
In Frisco, Texas, Universal is developing its first-ever park dedicated to younger children: Universal Kids Resort, scheduled to open in 2026. This resort will encompass six themed lands inspired by popular franchises such as DreamWorks’ Shrek, Trolls, and Gabby’s Dollhouse; Illumination’s Minions; Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants; and Jurassic World.
Designed with family-friendly attractions, interactive shows, and character meet-and-greets, the resort aims to provide an engaging experience for families with young children.
Looking ahead, Universal has announced plans for its first European theme park and resort in Bedford, England. Slated to open in 2031, this 476-acre project will feature themed lands with immersive storytelling, thrilling rides, and entertainment. Other franchise characters fans expect to appear include Paddington (a true British legend), James Bond, and elements from the Lord of the Rings universe. The complex will also include a 500-room hotel along with retail, dining, and entertainment facilities.
What's your favorite part of the Universal Mega Movie Parade?
