NewsOutside the Disney Bubble

World Premiere Alert: Rare Character to Debut at Universal Fan Fest!

Universal Studios Hollywood is gearing up for an unforgettable event this spring, and theme park fans are in for a treat. While Universal Orlando Resort boasts multiple parks and an impressive lineup of attractions, its West Coast counterpart is proving it can deliver big surprises, too.

This year, Universal Hollywood will introduce Fan Fest Nights, an after-hours event that will celebrate some of the most beloved franchises of all time.

A family of four walks past the Universal Studios Hollywood globe at the entrance to the Southern California theme park
Credit: Universal

Related: Universal Studios Says Goodbye to Two More Resort Locations Forever

Guests attending the exclusive, hard-ticketed event can expect immersive experiences, special entertainment, and character meet-and-greets that have never been seen before at the California theme park.

But one reveal has fans especially excited—Universal is bringing a rare character to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD for the very first time.

Yoshi Arrives at Universal Studios Hollywood

When SUPER NINTENDO WORLD first opened at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023, fans were thrilled to step into the Mushroom Kingdom. The land featured interactive elements, an innovative ride (Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge), and meet-and-greet opportunities with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach.

Mario, Princess Peach, and Luigi pose cheerfully in front of a bright entrance at Super Nintendo World
Credit: Universal

Related: Universal Guest Shocks Fellow Parkgoers, Angers Team Members

However, one familiar face from the Super Mario universe was noticeably absent: Yoshi.

Until now, Yoshi has only appeared at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD in Universal Studios Japan, and only as a character in the park’s daily parade. But that’s about to change. Universal Studios Hollywood has confirmed that Fan Fest Nights will introduce Yoshi to U.S. parkgoers for the first time.

During the event, guests will be able to meet and interact with the iconic green dinosaur, marking a major milestone for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD in Hollywood.

Super Nintendo World
Credit: Universal

Alongside Yoshi’s debut, Universal will be introducing exclusive Yoshi-themed merchandise and limited-time food offerings. Special menu items will include a Yoshi Apple Melon Smoothie and Yoshi Fettuccine Alfredo, ensuring that fans can enjoy a themed dining experience while they immerse themselves in the world of Super Nintendo.

Additionally, a themed scavenger hunt will challenge guests to find five colorful Yoshi eggs hidden throughout the land. Those who succeed in locating all five will earn an exclusive opportunity to meet a differently colored Yoshi—an experience that promises to be as rewarding as it is fun.

Yoshi-themed food universal Hollywood Fan Fest Nights
Credit: Universal

A Festival of Iconic Characters and Interactive Fun

Fan Fest Nights isn’t just about Yoshi. Universal Studios Hollywood is going all out, creating a multi-franchise celebration that will appeal to film and gaming enthusiasts alike.

Attendees can look forward to experiences inspired by Back to the Future, Harry Potter, Star Trek, and Super Mario Bros. Guests will even have the chance to explore a recreation of Hill Valley and meet beloved characters from the Back to the Future series.

Beyond the Nintendo-themed festivities, Fan Fest Nights will also feature other rare encounters. Universal Studios Hollywood is introducing a Niffler meet-and-greet inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

A niffler encounter at Universal Studios Japan
Credit: Universal

This mischievous creature from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016) was previously exclusive to Universal Studios Japan and is also set to appear in the upcoming Wizarding World Ministry of Magic expansion at Epic Universe.

With these additions, Universal is making it clear that Fan Fest Nights will be a must-visit event for theme park lovers.

Dates, Ticket Prices, and What to Expect

Universal Studios Hollywood’s Fan Fest Nights will take place on select nights from April 25 through May 18, 2025. The event will run from 7 p.m. to midnight, with ticket prices ranging from $74 to $84 per person.

Promotional image for Universal FanFest Nights. Features characters and scenes from anime and games, a flying car, Yoshi soaring alongside a dragon, and fireworks over a castle, with the iconic Universal Studios Hollywood sign at the center.
Credit: Universal

Related: Universal Studio’s Big Change: Iconic Characters Removed to Save Failing Resort Location

Given the limited availability of these exclusive experiences, tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Fans eager to be among the first to meet Yoshi or participate in the themed scavenger hunt should secure their spots as soon as possible.

Universal has been making waves with its recent expansions, and the addition of Yoshi to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is just the latest example of how the company continues to elevate the guest experience.

Are you planning to attend Fan Fest Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood? Let us know in the comments below!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles

Back to top button