This Week’s Theme Park News 8/24
1. Pirate Pub Opening at Disney World!
Disney is opening a new pirate pub called The Beak and Barrel on August 29 at Magic Kingdom. It looks like a pirate ship and will be filled with treasures and stories.
See inside
2. Special Pirate Food and Drinks
There are fun snacks like “Kraken’s Catch” (octopus salad) and pirate drinks. You can even buy shirts and a parrot toy to take home.
Check it out
3. Muppets Will Star in Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster!
Disney is turning the popular Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster into a Muppets-themed ride in 2026. Now you’ll race to a show with Kermit, Animal, and the Electric Mayhem band!
Learn more
4. Big Thunder Mountain Gets Magical Makeover
When it reopens in 2026, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will have glowing caves, shiny pools, and sparkling rocks that light up in the dark. It sounds like magic underground!
Read all about it
5. Fast & Furious Coaster Coming Soon!
Universal Hollywood is building a super fast “Fast & Furious” roller coaster for 2026. The ride cars will even spin while racing on the track!
More info
5. Universal is Making a New Resort in Texas
A new Universal Kids Resort is coming to Texas, opening in 2026. It will have rides from favorites like Trolls, SpongeBob, and Minions.
See details
6. Bridge Reopens for Halloween at Universal
The bridge between Springfield and Harry Potter land is open again—just in time for Halloween Horror Nights starting August 29! This means it will be easier to walk between the lands.
Find out
7. Watch the New Disney Night Parade at Magic Kingdom
Disney’s brand-new parade, “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” started in July. It features floats with characters like Elsa, Miguel, and Mickey dancing under the stars!
See what it looks like
8. Millennium Falcon Ride Gets More Fun in 2026
Disney is adding new places to fly to and cool things to do on the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run ride at Hollywood Studios in 2026. Imagine soaring through space and choosing where to go next—all in one ride!
Disney World announces big changes to Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run
9. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Rides Its Last
The big coaster Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Orlando closed on August 18. Fans said goodbye by sharing stories and even handing out guitar picks.
It’s closing
✨ Why This Matters for Families
- New places to eat, play, and see cool shows.
- Fast rides, shortcuts, and fun snacks for every trip.
- Magical and spooky things happening right now!