Credit: UniversalUniversal Orlando Resort has some massive plans lined up for 2026, and fans can already feel the excitement building. The resort has been rolling out updates, teasing upcoming events, and preparing for what appears to be one of its busiest and boldest years yet. While Universal hasn’t revealed everything at once, the early details are enough to get guests buzzing about what their next vacation might look like. The best part? These updates touch nearly every part of the resort, which means 2026 is shaping up to be a year guests won’t forget.
Before delving into the five significant changes that define Universal’s upcoming year, it’s helpful to step back and consider the scale of this destination. Universal Orlando Resort has expanded significantly beyond its original footprint, now offering four distinct parks, each with its own unique identity and lineup of experiences. Together, they set the stage for everything Universal wants to accomplish moving forward.
Universal Orlando’s Four-Park Playground
Universal Studios Florida remains the park where movies and television come alive. Guests step straight into cinematic worlds, hopping from one iconic franchise to the next. It’s a blend of classic attractions and new favorites, making it the heart of the resort for many visitors.
Right next door, Universal Islands of Adventure brings guests into worlds defined by exploration and fantasy. Each island feels like a separate adventure, offering everything from high-speed coasters to immersive lands built around beloved characters. It’s the park thrill-seekers swear by.
Volcano Bay brings an entirely different energy, blending relaxation with high-action water attractions. Anchored by the towering Krakatau volcano, this water theme park offers beaches, slides, and winding rivers, transforming traditional water park expectations.
Then, of course, there’s the newest addition: Epic Universe. This park significantly expands the resort, introducing entirely new lands, a mix of cutting-edge attractions, and an immersive layout that feels unlike anything Universal has done before. Fans knew it would change the resort, but the ripple effects going into 2026 are even bigger than expected.
With that foundation in mind, the resort has confirmed five significant changes coming next year, ranging from promotions and festivals to refurbishments and new ticket options. Each one shapes the guest experience differently, and together, they paint a picture of a resort entering its next chapter.
1. A Refillable Mug Promo With a Twist
Universal kicked off its 2026 momentum with a limited-time promotion centered around its seasonal refillable mugs. As Universal explained, guests can “buy 2 and get 1 refillable mug for FREE,” a deal available for the holiday-themed designs through January 14, 2026.
These mugs work at Coca-Cola Freestyle locations across Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe, Volcano Bay, and CityWalk. While refills are limited to one pour every ten minutes and must be used on the day of purchase, the offer gives families a fun way to save while staying hydrated during long park days.
It’s a small detail in the grand scheme of Universal’s offerings, but it reflects a trend fans love: limited-time perks that add value to their trip. And with three mugs in hand, groups can spread out across the parks while still enjoying the seasonal flavors Universal brings in each year.
2. Rock the Universe Returns With a Stacked Lineup
One of Universal’s most uplifting events returns early in the year with the two-night “Rock the Universe” festival on January 23 and 24. Universal described it as “a weekend of faith, fun, and music,” featuring prominent Christian artists across two stages.
Friday’s lineup includes Forrest Frank, Switchfoot, KB, Blessing Offor, Hulvey, bodie, Eli Gable, Hopeful., and Claire Leslie. Saturday keeps the energy going with Lecrae, Phil Wickham, Colton Dixon, Passion, Terrian, Sam Rivera, Caleb and John, Bay Turner, and Megan Danielle.
A Sunday morning service will follow on January 25, providing attendees with a complete weekend of worship and entertainment. Ticket pricing begins at $173.99 for full weekend access, which includes three days of entry to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.
Single-night tickets start at $94.99, and Universal offers special rates for youth ministry groups, along with package upgrades and additional perks. It’s one of Universal’s most meaningful events, and its return sets a strong tone for the year.
3. Mardi Gras Comes Back Bigger Than Ever
Another fan-favorite event returns right as winter shifts into spring. Universal confirmed that Mardi Gras 2026 will take place from February 7 through April 4, featuring colorful parades, live concerts on select nights, and an impressive array of international dishes.
The Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience is also returning, giving guests the chance to enjoy a three-course meal before boarding a parade float that evening. Participating restaurants include The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, NBC Sports Grill & Brew, Lombard’s Seafood Grille, Confisco Grille, and Antojitos Authentic Mexican Restaurant.
The package starts at $94.99 per person and remains one of the most popular upgrades Universal offers. Guests love the combination of great food and an exclusive parade spot, and Universal’s decision to bring it back reinforces how central Mardi Gras has become to its annual calendar.
4. Major Refurbishments Hit Three Parks
Universal has also confirmed a lengthy list of closures for 2026, and some of them are big. Universal Studios Florida will see Finnegan’s Bar & Grill close from January 12 through winter 2026, followed by Revenge of the Mummy shutting down from January 15 to January 21. The Hogwarts Express will be closed from February 9 through February 23, affecting guests traveling between the two main parks.
Over at Islands of Adventure, Jurassic Park River Adventure will be closed from January 5 to November 19 for extensive work. The Hogwarts Express closure dates also apply there. At Volcano Bay, a rare extended seasonal closure will take place from October 26, 2026, through March 24, 2027. These refurbishments show Universal’s commitment to long-term upkeep, even when it means temporarily sacrificing some favorites.
5. Multi-Day Epic Universe Tickets Finally Arrive
Universal confirmed that “starting in 2026, multi-day tickets for Epic Universe will be available,” marking a significant shift from its 2025 approach, which only offered single-day admission. Guests will soon be able to choose 3-, 4-, or 5-day options, with upgrades available for park-to-park access. This move makes planning easier for families who want to explore all four parks without rushing.
Looking Ahead to a Big Universal Year
Universal Orlando Resort is entering 2026 with confidence and creativity. Between returning events, upgraded ticket options, major festivals, promos, and essential refurbishments, the resort is gearing up for a transformational year. Fans can feel the momentum already—and with Epic Universe playing a growing role, the coming year looks like one of Universal’s most exciting yet.