Disneyland Resort Plans to Reopen Theme Parks April 30

March 17, 2021

The joy and laughter and magical moments of the Disneyland Resort will soon return to its theme parks as Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park are planning to officially reopen to the public on April 30, 2021, with limited capacity.

“The day all of us have long been waiting for is almost here,” said Ken Potrock, president of the Disneyland Resort. “We’re excited to have more than 10,000 cast members returning to work as we get ready to welcome our guests back to this happy place.”

The dreams of being immersed in these theme park experiences will soon come to life, with unforgettable attractions, seeing beloved Disney characters, shopping for the latest Disney merchandise, savoring the world-famous food and drinks, and capturing fun photos. New magic will be unveiled, too, as the reimagined Snow White’s Enchanted Wish opens to guests for the very first time.

Once again, guests will experience the thrills of exploring Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, embarking on a treacherous voyage on Pirates of the Caribbean, setting sail with children from around the globe on “it’s a small world” and zipping along Route 66 on Radiator Springs Racers. They may discover the joy of waving to Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, finding the perfect Mickey ears, dipping into a DOLE Whip^® and staying in the middle of the magic at a Disney hotel.

In the days leading up to the public opening on April 30, Disneyland Resort will invite cast members and members of the local community to be the first theme park guests after more than a year of closure.

The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort also plan to welcome guests once again, with a phased reopening. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa plans to reopen on April 29, 2021, with limited capacity. Disney Vacation Club Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa will plan to reopen May 2. Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and the Disneyland Hotel will reopen at a later date.

Because theme park capacity will be significantly limited to comply with governmental requirements and promote physical distancing, the Disneyland Resort will manage attendance through a new theme park reservation system that requires all guests to obtain a reservation for park entry in advance. To enter a park, both a park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date are required for guests ages 3 and up. Theme park reservations will be limited and subject to availability and, until further notice, only California residents may visit the parks in line with current state guidelines.

More details about this new reservation system will be available soon. In addition, guests are encouraged to check Disneyland.com for the latest updates as they become available for theme park tickets, hotel booking and vacation packages, dining reservations and activity reservations such as Droid Depot.

The health and well-being of guests and cast members remain a top priority. Just as the Downtown Disney District reopened at Disneyland Resort on July 9, 2020, with enhanced health and safety measures, operational changes will be in place at the theme parks and hotels based on guidance from health authorities and learnings from our parks around the world to promote physical distancing, enhanced cleanliness and reduced contact. Cast members throughout the resort will be dedicated to assist with questions, and guests may check Disneyland.com/update for the most current health and safety measures, including mandatory face coverings for guests ages 2 and older.

A Touch of Disney, the limited-time ticketed experience which has sold out, will go on as planned at Disney California Adventure from March 18 through April 19.

Disneyland Resort Additional Info:

Classic and favorite attractions will begin to open at both parks – from epic experiences like the new Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance to family-friendly experiences like Peter Pan’s Flight and Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind.

At Disneyland, the fun awaits on Indiana Jones Adventure, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and King Arthur Carrousel, to name a few, and new magic is coming to Haunted Mansion. At Disney California Adventure, guests will be immersed in the stories and adventures of the Incredicoaster, Toy Story Midway Mania!, The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, and more.

Guests will discover a newly reimagined attraction in Fantasyland – Snow White’s Enchanted Wish. The timeless tale comes alive in dazzling new scenes, including a dancing figure of Snow White joining the dwarfs in their cottage as the scent of a baking pie wafts through the air. Vibrant new shadow projections show the dwarfs as they march off to the mine happily singing “Heigh Ho,” and the new lighting, glittering jewels and shimmering effects make the mine sparkle. Guests then travel through the Queen’s den to see a new library of spell books, glowing potions and bubbling flasks, toward the famous magic mirror. In the end, Snow White and her Prince ride joyfully into a golden sunset to live happily ever after.

On the “must-do” list for many guests will be a journey to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the largest and most technologically advanced single-themed land expansion ever in a Disney park. Guests are transported to a galaxy far, far away at the Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu, where they can take the controls of the most famous ship in the galaxy on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. The newest attraction in the land, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, opened in January 2020. It takes guests aboard a full-size transport shuttle before they are captured by a Star Destroyer, finding themselves in the middle of a climactic battle between the dark side of the First Order and the light side of the Resistance, including BB-8, Rey and Chewbacca.

Avengers Campus, a completely new land where guests can live their Super Hero dreams, will open at a later date at Disney California Adventure.

Characters are part of the magic

From to surprise appearances along Main Street, U.S.A., and Pixar Pier to playful interactions, characters from dozens of favorite Disney and Pixar stories will entertain and delight guests across both parks. Beloved characters will pop up in new ways and sometimes in unexpected places as they remain mindful of physical distancing.

Disneyland

At Disneyland, guests may see Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse waving from the train station, or Disney Princesses such as Mulan appear at the Royal Theatre to wave and pose at a distance for guests taking selfies. At Disney California Adventure, Pixar pals may wave from the bandshell at Pixar Pier, and guests can share a laugh while taking photos with Mater and Lightning McQueen along Route 66 in Cars Land.

Certain experiences that draw large group gatherings – such as parades and nighttime spectaculars – will return at a later date.

Themed dining and world-famous food and drinks

Tasty, tantalizing and ready for social media, Disneyland Resort snacks and dishes are a food-lover’s fairytale wishes come true. Park favorites such as the DOLE Whip^®, corn dogs and churros are fun treats offered alongside memorable dining experiences that include lobster nachos and novel drinks at Lamplight Lounge, brisket mac & cheese at River Belle Terrace and Mediterranean-California fare at Carthay Circle Lounge – Alfresco Dining. The parks offer a multitude of food and drink options, from uniquely themed candy apples and specials like Walt’s Chili to the always popular Plaza Inn fried chicken.

At several locations around the resort, mobile ordering* on the official Disneyland app now is the primary way to order food and drinks. Dining reservations are recommended for table-service restaurants.

Check in to the magic at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

After playing in the theme parks, guests may relax with an overnight stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, where they are surrounded by the Craftsman-style architecture and the tranquil feel of redwood forests. Guests are treated to genuine hospitality and legendary service, just steps from the Downtown Disney District and Disneyland Resort theme parks. The enchanting Disney magic includes well-appointed accommodations, sparkling pools and a chance to request a wake-up call with greetings from some favorite Disney characters.

Guests with valid theme park admission who are planning a stay at a Disneyland Resort hotel will need to also book theme park reservations in advance, as a hotel stay does not guarantee a park reservation. Hotel capacity will be limited. Guests may soon book hotel stays for Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, or a nearby Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor Hotel, by visiting Disneyland.com or contacting a travel professional.

Digital tools help guests make the most of their visits

To make the most of a visit to the Disneyland Resort, guests will have digital tools right at their fingertips with the Disneyland app. Guests are strongly encouraged to use the Disneyland app to plan ahead and utilize mobile ordering* for food and beverage purchases from select locations, as well as to check park hours, make dining reservations, and view maps and other important resort updates. Mobile waitlist (subject to availability) and mobile check-in options will be available for table-service dining at select locations. Disneyland Resort also recommends cashless transactions such as electronic payment to reduce contact.

Check Disneyland.com for the latest updates

For everything they need to know about their visits, guests are encouraged to check Disneyland.com regularly for the latest information, including upcoming details about ticket sales and reservations, and which experiences are currently available or will be offered.** Guests also are also encouraged to follow the Disney Parks Blog for reopening details.

The plans to open Disneyland Resort are phased and subject to change, to align with guidance released from time to time by health authorities and appropriate government agencies. This guidance is fluid and applicable at any given time as community situations change. With that guidance, many factors will determine the timing of when offerings may be available, and the status of indoor and outdoor experiences.

Experience ‘Speed’ for the First Time in 4K Ultra HD

Robbie Bulus

March 17, 2021

Hold on tight for a rush of pulse-pounding thrills, breathtaking stunts, and unexpected romance in a film you’ll want to see again and again. Keanu Reeves stars as an L.A.P.D. SWAT team specialist who is sent to defuse a bomb that a revenge-driven extortionist (Dennis Hopper) has planted on a city bus.

But until he does, one of the passengers (Sandra Bullock) must keep the bus speeding through the streets of Los Angeles at more than 50 miles per hour – or the bomb will explode.

A high-octane chase of suspense, nonstop action, and surprise twists, “Speed” is a joyride sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!

Jan de Bont’s action thriller “Speed” races to 4K Ultra HD™ for the first time on May 4, including a limited-edition SteelBook® found only at Best Buy.

“Speed” Bonus Features*

Audio Commentary by Jan de Bont
Audio Commentary by Graham Yost and Mark Gordon
Action Sequences
- Bus Jump
- Metrorail Crash
Inside Speed
- On Location
- Stunts
- Visual Effects
- HBO First Look: The Making of Speed
Extended Scenes
- Jack Shoots Payne in the Neck
- Payne Lives/Cops Party
- Annie’s Job
- After Helen’s Death
- Ray’s Crime
- Cargo Jet Explosion: The Airline Version
Speed Music Video by Billy Idol

*bonus features vary by product and retailer

Disney+ First Look for “Earth Moods” from National Geographic

Robbie Bulus

March 15, 2021

Disney+ has shared the trailer and key art for “Earth Moods” from National Geographic. “Earth Moods,” a visual and soundscape experience, takes viewers on the ultimate retreat—transporting them to a vast array of colorful and calming corners of the world. Viewers travel to blue glaciers, arid deserts, lush rainforests and pulsating metropolises to escape from the cacophony of everyday life.

With an original score produced by Neil Davidge, known for “Massive Attack” as well as collaborations with Snoop Dogg and David Bowie, each “mood” gives the audience an opportunity to relax and reset as the sound of music and the natural world washes over them.

Disney+ Earth Moods

All five episodes, will be available on Disney+ on Friday, April 16. Episodes include “Frozen Calm,” “Night Lights,” “Tropical Serenity,” “Desert Solitude,” and “Peaceful Patterns.”

All Five Episodes Available April 16 on Disney+

“Descendants: The Royal Wedding” Animated Special Coming this Summer

Russell Tom

March 15, 2021

“Descendants: The Royal Wedding,” an animated special that invites viewers to Auradon’s epic social event—Mal and King Ben’s wedding—will premiere this summer on Disney Channel. “Descendants,” “Descendants 2” and “Descendants 3” rank as the #1 cable movie among kids and tweens for 2015, 2017 and 2019, respectively.

All three “Descendants” soundtracks reached #1 on the Billboard Soundtrack chart, and the “Descendants” and “Descendants 2” soundtracks are gold-certified.

Reprising their popular roles are Dove Cameron as Mal, Sofia Carson as Evie, Booboo Stewart as Jay, Mitchell Hope as Ben, Sarah Jeffery as Audrey, Melanie Paxson as Fairy Godmother, China Anne McClain as Uma, Jedidiah Goodacre as Chad, Anna Cathcart as Dizzy, Dan Payne as Beast, Bobby Moynihan as Dude the Dog and Cheyenne Jackson as Hades.

The absence of the character Carlos, played by the late Cameron Boyce, will be acknowledged in the storyline and Boyce’s memory will be honored in the telecast.

Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Branded Television, said, “‘Descendants’ introduced a fantasy world of stories and characters anchored in Disney mythology. For the past six years, it captivated young viewers and grew to become among Disney Channel’s biggest entertainment franchises ever.

It had the benefit of immensely talented stars, who we now welcome back for this animated ‘Royal Wedding’ special that will bridge the audience to what we hope will be a new chapter of compelling ‘Descendants’ stories and characters yet to come.”

“Descendants: The Royal Wedding,” by Sara Parriott & Josann McGibbon and Ricky Roxburgh, is based on the “Descendants” movies by Parriott and McGibbon (“The Starter Wife,” “Runaway Bride,” “Descendants,” “Descendants 2”, “Descendants 3”). Produced by Le Cube, Salvador Simó is set to direct.

“Cruella” Sneak Peek Trailer and New Images

Socalthrills Staff

March 14, 2021

Following its debut on the 2021 GRAMMY Show, The Walt Disney Company has released a new sneak peek plus three additional still images from its all-new live-action feature film “Cruella,” starring Academy Award®-winners Emma Stone and Emma Thompson, directed by Craig Gillespie. The film will be released on Friday, May 28.

Academy Award® winner Emma Stone (“La La Land”) stars in Disney’s “Cruella,” an all-new live-action feature film about the rebellious early days of one of cinema’s most notorious – and notoriously fashionable – villains, the legendary Cruella de Vil. “Cruella,” which is set in 1970s London amidst the punk rock revolution, follows a young grifter named Estella, a clever and creative girl determined to make a name for herself with her designs. She befriends a pair of young thieves who appreciate her appetite for mischief, and together they are able to build a life for themselves on the London streets.

One day, Estella’s flair for fashion catches the eye of the Baroness von Hellman, a fashion legend who is devastatingly chic and terrifyingly Haute, played by two-time Oscar® winner Emma Thompson (“Howards End,” “Sense & Sensibility”). But their relationship sets in motion a course of events and revelations that will cause Estella to embrace her wicked side and become the raucous, fashionable and revenge-bent Cruella.

Disney’s “Cruella” is directed by Craig Gillespie (“I Tonya”) and produced by Andrew Gunn (“Freaky Friday”), Marc Platt (“Mary Poppins Returns”) and Kristin Burr (“Christopher Robin”), with Emma Stone and Michelle Wright (“Baby Driver”) serving as executive producers. Two-time Oscar®- winning costume designer Jenny Beavan (“Mad Max: Fury Road,” “A Room with a View”) creates dazzling and imaginative costumes, which take on a life of their own.

“WandaVision” Behind-the-Scenes series Now Streaming

Robbie Bulus

March 12, 2021

Go behind the scenes of Marvel Studios’ hit series “WandaVision” with a brand-new, documentary-style special “Assembled: The Making of ‘WandaVision’” now streaming exclusively on Disney+.

The premiere episode of this groundbreaking series of documentary-style specials features Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany and the creative team behind Marvel Studios’ “WandaVision” as they welcome viewers behind the scenes of their exciting series.

WandaVision Behind-the-Scenes

Learn how the production’s surprising concept took shape by drawing inspiration from classic sitcoms. Witness how the crew went to great lengths to emulate various filmmaking methods used during the early years of television. Discover the unique challenges and ultimate rewards of performing an entire episode in front of a live studio audience.

Spend time with exciting newcomers to the MCU, including Teyonah Parris and Kathryn Hahn, along with returning favorites like Kat Dennings and Randall Park. “Assembled: The Making of ‘WandaVision’” is an all-encompassing look at Marvel Studios’ first, and arguably most unusual, streaming series.

Disney+ Presents NatGeo “Secrets of the Whales”

Socalthrills Staff

March 11, 2021

Disney+ released the trailer for its upcoming original series “Secrets of the Whales,” which plunges viewers deep within the epicenter of whale culture to reveal the mysterious and beautiful world of five different whale species: orcas, humpbacks, belugas, narwhals and sperm whales.

About “Secrets of the Whales”

The four-part series, from National Geographic, is executive produced by Academy Award^®-winning filmmaker and conservationist James Cameron (“Avatar”) and narrated by award-winning actress and conservationist Sigourney Weaver (“Alien,” “Avatar,” “Gorillas in the Mist”). All four episodes will be available to stream exclusively on Earth Day, Thursday, April 22, 2021, exclusively on Disney+.

Featuring the expansive knowledge and skill of acclaimed National Geographic Explorer and Photographer Brian Skerry, the series ventures deep into the world of whales to witness the extraordinary communication skills and intricate social structures to reveal life and love from their perspective.

“Secrets of the Whales” unveils new science and technology to spotlight whales as they make lifelong friendships, teach clan heritage and traditions to their young, and grieve deeply for the loss of loved ones.

Filmed over three years in 24 global locations, throughout this epic journey, we learn that whales are far more complex and more like us than ever imagined. This is a personal story that very few are lucky enough to witness … until now.

“Secrets of the Whales” is produced for National Geographic by Red Rock Films. For Red Rock Films, Brian Armstrong and Shannon Malone-DeBenedictis are executive producers. For Earthship, James Cameron and Maria Wilhelm are executive producers and Kim Butts is associate producer. For National Geographic, Pamela Caragol is an executive producer. The series is scored by composer Raphaelle Thibaut.

Disney+ has 100 Million Global Subscribers in 2021

Robbie Bulus

March 9, 2021

Disney+ has surpassed 100 million global paid subscribers in just 16 months since its launch, Bob Chapek, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS), announced during the Company’s virtual Annual Meeting of Shareholders on Tuesday, March 9, 2021.

“The enormous success of Disney+ —which has now surpassed 100 million subscribers—has inspired us to be even more ambitious, and to significantly increase our investment in the development of high-quality content,” Mr. Chapek said. “In fact, we set a target of 100+ new titles per year, and this includes Disney Animation, Disney Live-Action, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. Our direct-to-consumer business is the Company’s top priority, and our robust pipeline of content will continue to fuel its growth.”

Disney+ is Available in 59 Countries around the World and Features an Impressive Collection of High-Quality Content from Disney’s Content Studios

Disney+ launched in the U.S. on November 12, 2019, and has rolled out rapidly across Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Latin America, and most recently, Singapore.

Review: Knott’s Berry Farm Taste of Boysenberry 2021

Russell Tom

March 8, 2021

Knott’s Berry Farm springs back in 2021 with the Taste of Boysenberry Festival. Returning in this annual favorite are food, music, characters, and of course, the flavor of the sweet and tart boysenberry that can only be found in this Southern California destination.

The park still upholds safety procedures of face masks, sanitizers, and social distancing as part of the temporary norm. Appetizing food, drink, and surgery treats amongst the Boysenberry purples and colorful Easter decor will delight and stimulate the senses. Let’s hop right into the fun, shall we?

Upon arrival through the Marketplace from the parking lot to the entry gates, a lengthy stream of guests crowd the walkways to satisfy taste buds. Patience and social distancing are also among key ingredients to the fun that awaits. As most people enter the first lines they see at the front of the park, we opted and suggest bypassing the entry of Ghost Town as the rest of the park is ripe with little to no wait. Not to mention open tables and benches to boot.

The Pastrami Sandwich is juicy and full of meaty goodness. Even the pretzel bun held its own with its texture. The Key Lime Tart is sizably as big as the palm of one’s hand. A layer of Boysenberry jam is sandwiched between the crumbly crust and sweetness of the key lime on top. The Boysenberry Balsamic Brussel Sprouts and Elote with Boysenberry Mayo, Cotija Cheese, Butter, and Tortilla Strips provide a vegetarian cleanse from the meats and sweets that are plentiful on the menu list.

The Mac and Cheese Bites were more “under” than “over” the French Fries with the Boysenberry Sriracha Ketchup standing out the most. A returning favorite is the Boysenberry Flavored Shrimp and Grits. Although savory, the shrimp size is small compared to the mound of grits. Another underwhelming selection was the Cheeseburger with a Boysenberry Onion Spread on a Brioche Bun. The burger itself had a rubbery texture that left much to be desire.

Searching for a refreshing drink on the bright and beautiful day, we looked to the Boysenberry Cosmopolitan and the Frozen Boysenberry Mai Tai. The former had an overpowering alcoholic blend that drowned out the flavor while the latter melted quickly as a brief cool down. Almost a reminder of the Boysenberry smoothie. We prefer the Boysenberry and Basil Lemonade or the Boysenberry, Cucumber, and Pineapple Aqua Fresca to satisfyingly quench our thirst.

New to the festival lineup is the introduction of the Boysenberry ICE Dippin’ Dots. This seems like a no-brainer since the introduction of the festival, but it’s finally here and ready to be enjoyed. And it doesn’t disappoint. Much less messy compared to an ice cream cookie sandwich.

You really can’t go wrong with Boysenberry brisket paired with tater tots or mac and cheese. Either option explodes in your mouth. Do not fear the jalapeno chips, it’s really there for that crunchy snap.

Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival Photo Gallery:

Taste of Boysenberry 2021 Photo Album

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Knott’s Taste of Boysenberry Festival will take place on select dates beginning March 5th through May 2nd. Event hours will be 12 pm to 9 pm select Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and from 12 pm to 8 pm on Sundays.

A tasting card is required for this limited-time food event at Knott’s Berry Farm. Regular tasting cards (ages 12+) are priced at $45 (plus tax) and will include five food tastings and Junior tasting cards (ages 3-11) are $20 (plus tax) and include three tastings. Tasting cards are date-specific and must be purchased online at knotts.com or through the Knott’s Berry Farm mobile app prior to the date of visit. In order to manage proper physical distancing of guests, Knott’s Taste of Boysenberry Festival tasting cards will be limited each day and may sell out.

New 2021 Lego Set Featuring Winnie the Pooh!

Socalthrills Staff

March 8, 2021

LEGO® is inviting Winnie the Pooh fans to embrace nostalgia and return to the picturesque Hundred Acre Wood with its new LEGO Ideas Winnie the Pooh set - based on original designs by LEGO builder and superfan Ben Alder. Beneath a large oak tree, complete with beehives and bees, Pooh’s house takes center stage. The house can be opened up to unveil a whole host of furniture and unique items, such as the “Pooh-coo” Clock, box of “Pooh Sticks”, Tigger’s locket, and of course, plenty of honey pots – both full and empty!

A. A. Milne’s wonderful tales of Christopher Robin’s adventures have amazed readers of all ages for almost a century and have become even more memorable thanks to the television and film adaptations that have truly brought the characters’ world to life.

LEGO superfan Ben Alder originally submitted the concept to LEGO Ideas; a LEGO initiative that takes new ideas that have been imagined and voted for by fans and turn them into reality. Based on Ben’s original designs, the set is the perfect project for adult builders to take time to relax and return to the halcyon days of youth, recalling the adventures of their favorite bear and his friends.

About the Lego Set

Discussing the design, Ben Alder commented “I love Winnie the Pooh and remember my parents reading it to me as a child. I now read the same Winnie the Pooh stories to my children, so it is certainly something dear to my heart. I decided to make the set so that my children could bring to life our bedtime stories but never quite expected the positive reaction it has received.”

The new set also includes five new molded characters, each with its own accessories. Pooh himself has his red balloon to collect honey from the bees in the branches above, Piglet is wrapped up in his scarf, and Tigger has just moved to the woods with his sack on a stick. Meanwhile, Rabbit has carrots ready for snacking, and Eeyore comes complete with his tail and a removable ribbon.

Other notable inclusions to the set include; a campfire and log for Pooh to think about the things that he discovers, his front door complete with “Mr. Sanders” sign above it, his adorable bluebell to ring the front door, and finally, a signpost to the Hundred Acre Wood to make sure Pooh finds his way home.

Federico Begher, VP of Global Marketing at The LEGO Group commented, “Winnie the Pooh is a 95-year-old story that is loved globally, so seeing Ben’s design sparked a lot of nostalgia for us all.  Plus, his personal story about how he created the set for his family to play out the lovely Winnie the Pooh stories using LEGO bricks felt like a beautiful combination of family, LEGO bricks, and Winnie the Pooh that we wanted to share with others.

We also had the rare treat of being able to create all-new characters for this LEGO Ideas set. We simply had to see how the line-up of Pooh, Tigger, Rabbit, and Piglet would look in mini-figure shape. As well as creating a brand-new Eeyore figure!

The stories of the Hundred Acre Wood come to life with this set and there are plenty of intricate details for fans of both Disney and LEGO to discover.”

The LEGO Ideas® platform is a LEGO initiative that takes new ideas that have been imagined and voted for by fans and turn them into reality. The LEGO® Ideas Winnie the Pooh set is available directly from LEGO Stores and LEGO.com from 18th March 2021 for LEGO VIP members, and 1st April 2021 for all.

Universal Studios Hollywood Re-Opens for “Taste of Universal”

Socalthrills Staff

March 6, 2021

Universal Studios Hollywood takes its first step in re-opening with the introduction of “Taste of Universal,” a lively outdoor dining and shopping experience taking place within select themed lands on weekends—Friday to Sunday from noon to 7:00 p.m.—beginning on Friday, March 12.

Universal Studios Hollywood is working closely with local health and government officials to implement new health and safety procedures that include controlled capacity to enforce physical distancing and required face coverings.

This eagerly-awaited experience will invite guests to once again feel the thrill of strolling along the park’s signature red carpet as they pass through its iconic gates to enjoy some of the theme park’s best culinary offerings and premium shopping options along with physically distanced photo opportunities with some of their favorite characters.

Admission tickets to “Taste of Universal” include access to select themed areas of the park along with a wide selection of nearly 70 choice culinary options, of which 30 are new to the event. Adults can choose five options and kids can choose three with additional food offerings available for purchase. Tickets start at $44 plus tax for adults and $25 plus tax for kids ages 3-9 years. Discounted admission tickets will be available for Universal Annual and Season Pass members. Visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for more information and to purchase tickets.

While rides, shows and attractions will not be operational during this experience, guests will be able to take in the incredible environments that surround them as they enjoy the scrumptious food, including vegan and vegetarian options, served within these areas. This includes:

“Springfield, U.S.A.” — Home of The Simpsons featuring Krusty Burger, Suds McDuff’s Hot Dog House, the Lard Lad Donut Cart and Kwik-E-Mart.
“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” — Stroll through Hogsmeade village and enjoy shops such as Honeydukes™, Ollivanders™, Owl Post™, Zonko’s™ Joke Shop, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, Dervish and Banges™, Gladrags Wizardwear and Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods, and feast on food favorites, including Three Broomsticks™ Fish & Chips, Sticky Toffee Pudding and Butterbeer.

The debut of Minion Cafe, a delicious new dining experience, located adjacent to the popular “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride, offering such tasty fare as Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Meatballs, Chicken & Bacon Mac and Cheese, and Nutella Banana pudding.
The Hollywood & Dine section will feature:
- Authentic Mexican fare at Cocina Mexicana with such favorites as Queso Street Tacos, Loaded Nachos all topped with choice of Tinga or Carnita & Birria, Tortilla Cut Chips with Guacamole, Chili Relleno and Elote Corn on the cobb with Lime Crema.

- Hollywood & Dine, the establishment located just inside the theme park’s main entry, serving a selection of comfort foods including, Hot Chicken Sandwich, Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bowl, Personal Pizza with choice of pepperoni or cheese, Brisket Sliders with Caramelized Onions, Korean Hot Dog, and mini funnel cake.

- City Snack Shop offering grab and go treats such as the quintessential NYC Giant Pretzel, Spicy Pomegranate Glazed Turkey Leg, and the debut of the Crepewich, which features sweet (Banana and Nutella, or Strawberry Chocolate) and savory (club or Spinach and Berry vegetarian) temptations. Yum!

A highlight of the experience will invite guests to preview the very exciting “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash” attraction shop, The Pets Store, where guests can purchase favorite The Secret Life of Petsthemed goodies. Minion Way and Pets Place perpendicular streets located adjacent to Illumination’s “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and all-new “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash” rides will take guests on a stroll through the film’s scenic New York City streets as they explore the themed environment.

The Animation Store, home to Hello Kitty® and her friends from Sanrio®, including My Melody™, Keroppi™ and Chococat™, as well as Minions merchandise from Illumination’s, blockbuster Despicable Mefilm franchise, and DreamWorks Animation franchises including Trolls and Kung Fu Panda, will be among the park’s exciting shopping options.

Physically distanced photo opportunities with select favorite characters will offer guests the chance to reconnect with Universal Studios Hollywood and share their experiences with friends and family via social media.

In addition to this exciting “Taste of Universal” event, guests can extend their day with more shopping and dining at the adjacent Universal CityWalk.

Universal Studios Hollywood’s new health and safety protocols are outlined below, highlighted in thisvideo and detailed on the Universal Studios Hollywood website.

Temperature checks for all Guests upon arrival. If temperatures exceed 100.4° Fahrenheit / 38° Celsius or greater, Guests will not be permitted to enter.
Face coverings required for all Guests throughout their visit. Face coverings also will be available for purchase.
Controlled capacity within the theme park, and limited occupancy at all CityWalk venues to help enforce physical distancing. Some areas and programs may remain temporarily closed.
Rigorous cleaning and disinfecting at all food locations, restrooms, and all other high touch points.
Physical distancing practices at all locations throughout the park.
Eating and drinking permitted only in designated outdoor dining areas.
Contactless payment options wherever possible.

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Disneyland Resort Plans to Reopen Theme Parks April 30

Disneyland Resort Additional Info:

Experience ‘Speed’ for the First Time in 4K Ultra HD

“Speed” Bonus Features*

Disney+ First Look for “Earth Moods” from National Geographic

Disney+ Earth Moods

“Descendants: The Royal Wedding” Animated Special Coming this Summer

“Cruella” Sneak Peek Trailer and New Images

Aquarium of the Pacific Reopening to the Public in 2021

Aquarium of the Pacific Important Info

“WandaVision” Behind-the-Scenes series Now Streaming

WandaVision Behind-the-Scenes

Disney+ Presents NatGeo “Secrets of the Whales”

About “Secrets of the Whales”

Disney+ has 100 Million Global Subscribers in 2021

Disney+ is Available in 59 Countries around the World and Features an Impressive Collection of High-Quality Content from Disney’s Content Studios

Review: Knott’s Berry Farm Taste of Boysenberry 2021

Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival Photo Gallery:

New 2021 Lego Set Featuring Winnie the Pooh!

About the Lego Set

Universal Studios Hollywood Re-Opens for “Taste of Universal”

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Next on Disney+: January 2026

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