Howdy! It was a windy but fun day at Universal Orlando I found lots of fun and funny things around the park, but mostly it was a calm day at Universal.
Good Morning from Universal Orlando Resort
This morning crowds are gearing up for the holidays and there are certainly more people around than normal. The weather this morning was perfect in the mid-seventies with some overcast. Unfortunately, this also means there is rain on the way to set the season straight.
Surf Shop Construction
The Surf Shop construction is progressing nicely. There are now some overhanging structures above the paneling. I spoke with a Team Member who suspects that this project will be completed by April 2025. We shall see, I certainly look forward to having this space reopened.
‘Wicked’ Merchandise
In the City Walk Universal Studio Store, there was a new Glinda purse available for $79.00. There were also two new shirts featuring Elphaba and Glinda available for $25.00 each. In the Wicked Store Glinda inspired Pearl earrings available for $37.00.
The Brown Derby Super Sale
At The Brown Derby Annual Passholders and Team Members have access to a super sale. There is merchandise that is still available throughout the park featuring ‘Secret Life of Pets’, Villain-Con, Harry Potter, and Jurassic Park among others.
New Window Displays
Near 5&10 the new window displays have been revealed. Nothing really interesting is on display, as it is merchandise that has been previously offered, but it is more interesting than an empty window. I think I would prefer something more themed to Hollywood rather than merchandise displays.
Kitty Softpaws
Kitty Softpaws was out visiting guests outside the Mama Luna attraction. It’s always really cool for me to see characters in their themed environments. She was very enthusiastic and invited more guests to join her.
Poppy’s Playground Closed
Poppy’s Playground was blocked and closed from guest use. There are two boxes covering what Universal is in the process of fixing. Stay tuned to our website for when Poppy’s Playground reopens.
Revenge of the Mummy Googly Eyes
In the Revenge of the Mummy gift shop there is a skull with googly eyes on display. I don’t think there is much intimidation there, but it made me chuckle out loud more than it should have. I appreciate the gesture of comedy in a spooky environment.
Holiday Tribute Store
It is day 11 on the Advent Calendar for Hogsmeade in the Holiday Tribute Store. Bertie Botts jellybeans are the star of today. Personally I am still hung up on The Baby Niffler from day 6. Which has been your favorite day so far? Let me know in the comments below.
Universal Annual Passholder Freestyle Cup
In Islands of Adventure I saw an UOAP exclusive holiday freestyle cup. This holiday cup is available for the same deal as the regular holiday freestyle cup seen in the background. The deal is buy two get one free.
Holiday Lorax
The Lorax is one of my favorite Dr. Seuss characters and seeing the Lorax holding tiny Christmas trees wearing a giant purple bow. Even without the holiday decor the Lorax is adorable but there is an extra special magic to the addition of holiday decor.
Do you have a favorite Seuss character? Let me know in the comments and they may be featured inthe next Universal photo report.
The Lost Continent
The Lost Continent statue had a hard time lighting his torch. I don’t know if it is a lack of fuel or if it is just the weather today but the spark kept trying to light to no avail. It was rather loud so keep an eye on it next time you visit the park. Let me know in the comments below what you think could be the problem.
Hogwarts Castle
On these particularly darker days I love the look of Hogwarts Castle. I think it gives it an extra level of mystery and, to me, looks more like the stereotypical England.
Popeye and Olive Oyl
In Toon Town just outside of Toon Extra Popeye and Olive Oyl were greeting guests. It’s rare to see these two out together. I was fan girling extra hard. These two were fantastic and an absolute must meet pair if you are given the chance.
Holiday Hello Kitty Prizes
When I was leaving Toon Town I noticed a Holiday Hello Kitty plush has been added to the Wack-a-Mole game in Islands of Adventure. As much as I need her I skipped the public embarassment of losing to children.
Have you ever played one of these carnival games at Islands of Adventure? I usually opt for the games in Krustyland at Universal Orlando.
Deadpool Stanley Look-a-like
In the Comic Shop a look-a-like Stanely Deadpool cup is available for $40.00. I don’t know many people who don’t like Deadpool, but the back of the cup is what really made me laugh, “Nerdin’ since the ’90s Duh!” As a nighties baby I love this.
Universal Orlando STARS Performance Program Show
Universal STARS Performance Program was in full swing at the City Walk stage. This is a Universal run program that offers, stage, marching, workshops, and music festival for groups of students. This band of teenagers were performing Burnin’ For You by the band Blue Öyster Cult.
Goodbye for Now
I hope you enjoyed our blustery day at Universal Orlando. My highlight was the googly-eyed skeleton in Revenge of the Mummy gift shop. Let me know your favorite moment in the comments below and on social media.
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