Epic Universe is almost ready to open its gates, but a small construction mistake has fans buzzing ahead of the big day. Universal’s newest theme park is set to officially welcome guests on May 22, and from everything we’ve seen during Passholder Previews, it’s going to be nothing short of incredible. Five massive themed lands, cutting-edge rides, and jaw-dropping theming are all coming together to create what could be the most ambitious theme park project of the decade.
That being said, no major opening comes without a few bumps in the road — and in Epic Universe’s case, one of those bumps is quite literally just a patch of dirt.
Over in Celestial Park, the main hub that connects all the lands, guests noticed something a little odd. Right near the entrance to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic area, close to the starting point of Stardust Racers, there’s a very noticeable unfinished section. Instead of fully landscaped gardens with glowing trees, there’s a big stretch of dirt where something clearly went wrong.
Bioreconstruct, known for tracking theme park construction updates with incredible detail, pointed it out recently. The area was supposed to feature illuminated tree lighting as part of Celestial Park’s whimsical, otherworldly vibe. Instead, it looks like the materials either didn’t arrive in time or a technical issue delayed the installation. Whatever the cause, it’s a rare sight in what’s otherwise a stunning, meticulously designed space.
Dirt instead of tree lighting in Celestial Park. Just outside of the Harry Potter world, toward Stardust Racers. Seems like a construction error. pic.twitter.com/vBjaEmF90B
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) April 27, 2025
Now, is it ideal? Of course not. No one wants to spot a literal construction zone in the middle of a brand-new theme park. But in the grand scheme of things, it’s a small issue compared to everything Epic Universe is offering. And let’s be real: a little patch of dirt isn’t going to ruin the experience when you’re riding Stardust Racers, exploring SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, flying with dragons in Isle of Berk, or battling monsters in Dark Universe.
Celestial Park itself still delivers in a big way. The fountains, gardens, and Constellation Carousel are already getting huge praise from early visitors. The hub sets the perfect tone for the entire park — even if one corner needs a little extra work.
It’s also important to remember that new theme parks are living projects. Soft openings, previews, and even the first few months after launch are all part of an adjustment period. Construction errors happen. Landscaping delays happen. What matters is how quickly Universal responds, and if their track record is any indication, that dirt patch won’t be there long.
With May 22 right around the corner, the final countdown is on. Epic Universe is ready to redefine what a theme park can be, and a minor construction slip-up isn’t going to stop that momentum. Guests will be stepping into a whole new world in just a few weeks — and chances are, they’ll be too busy racing, flying, and exploring to even notice a few leftover signs of the park’s final sprint to the finish.
