Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Universal Orlando Resort has an exciting lineup of experiences and events planned for this summer.
Select days from May 3 to August 21, 2026, are Volcano Bay Nights, an after-hours event at Volcano Bay that allows guests to enjoy shorter wait times and exclusive offerings, such as character meet-and-greets.
Pro-tip: Most of the summer offerings are on select days. Be sure to check the Universal Orlando Resort app before booking to ensure you’re able to experience these offerings on your next trip!
New This Summer at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Studios Orlando:
Held on select days from June 8 to August 23, the Universal Mega Movie Parade returns to Universal Studios. This daytime parade features characters from Trolls, E.T., Jaws, Shrek, and other beloved Universal Studios IPs.
The Mega Movie Parade takes place at 7 p.m., weather permitting.
Also returning is Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular, a nighttime show that combines drones, water-screen projections, and dancing fountains with film scores from Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and more.
Cinesational runs select days from April 5 to August 2 at 9 p.m.
Islands of Adventure:
This summer also marks the return of the fan-favorite Hogwarts Always, a projection and fireworks show presented in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade on select dates beginning May 30.
Universal Citywalk:
Stop by the Butterbeer Bar inside the Universal Studios Store, then watch a classic blockbuster at Universal Cinemark, from June 20 through August 26, on Wednesdays and Saturdays as part of their Summer Movie Series.
At the CityWalk Waterfront stage on Saturdays from June 20 through August 15, Universal will host their Summer Music Series. These themed performances will have three showtimes at 8 p.m., 9 p.m., and 10 p.m. Each set is about 45 minutes.
2026 CityWalk Summer Music Series:
June 20 – Women in Music
June 27 – Broadway Night
July 4 – Legends of Rock Night
July 11 – Boy Band Night
July 18 – Throwback Night
July 25 – Latin Night
August 1 – EDM Night
August 15 – Country Night
Bonus Idea : Soccer lovers can also watch FIFA World Cup Games from June 11 through July 19 at NBC Sports Grill & Brew.
Classic Summer Universal Experiences You Can’t Miss:
You can’t go wrong with a few old favorites this summer, even if you’ve done them a hundred times.
At Universal Studios, Revenge of the Mummy and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts are two of my favorite attractions. They both have single rider lines if you want a shorter wait and don’t mind sitting away from your family. Make sure to grab a butterbeer before you leave Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. There are many options to choose from, but my favorites are regular (cold) or soft serve.
Over at Islands of Adventure, three of the most popular coasters are within a 15-minute walk from each other: Jurassic World VelociCoaster, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure are always a go-to.
Important note: Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Express Pass line has been removed, so make sure to take that into account when planning your park day!
At Epic Universe, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is the most surprising attraction I’ve ever been on. My advice: go in blind, and you will love it!
Visit How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, even if you haven’t watched the films; it’s such an immersive environment and has incredible food, namely the Mac & Cheese Cones at Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel.
Universal Orlando Passholder Perks:
- Exclusive menu items
- An exclusive parade viewing area
- Up to 30% off Universal Orlando hotels
And more!
Universal Orlando Resort
6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
