Across Universal Orlando, new developments and seasonal setups are taking shape. Highlights include early preparations for the return of Mardi Gras in February, continued progress on the newly announced Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster, a fresh paint scheme at the Universal Studios Florida entry and exit plaza, and several other updates around the resort.
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift Progress
Universal Orlando confirmed earlier this week that the former Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit attraction will be replaced by Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. The following day, the resort updated the construction walls in the New York area of Universal Studios Florida to promote the new coaster, which is scheduled to open in 2027.
A few weeks ago, the first steel beams were installed on a new structure backstage at the far end of the New York area. Since then, construction has progressed, and the framework is beginning to take shape. This building is expected to serve as the service facility for the new roller coaster.
Additional construction is underway in the area. The ride station is expected to be located directly behind the firehouse facade.
Here’s a look at the progress on the roller coaster taking shape at the site between the Hard Rock Cafe and the entrance to Universal Studios Florida. That same structure can be seen in the distance from Universal CityWalk, and footers are visible for the upcoming attraction.
Mardi Gras Preparations Underway
Food booths for Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration are appearing across Universal Studios Florida, each featuring a different theme. While Universal has not released the full menu, guests can expect New Orleans classics as well as international cuisine. The event is scheduled to run from February 7 through April 4, 2026.
Red Coconut Club Transformation
Following its tradition for seasonal events, Red Coconut Club in CityWalk is receiving another Mardi Gras overlay, with work already in progress. During the celebration, the venue transforms into the Cursed Coconut Club.
Painting Underway at Universal Studios Florida Entry and Exit Plaza
The structures at Universal Studios Florida’s entrance/exit plaza are being repainted, transitioning from a peachy-pink hue to a white color.
New Food Kiosk Progress
Construction walls have come down around the new food kiosk near Animal Actors On Location! at Universal Studios Florida, revealing its full design. The location features a gazebo, a rooster-topped weather vane, and Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. Signage for the kiosk’s name is still missing, but with equipment visible inside and walls down, we suspect it is close to opening.
Jurassic Park River Adventure Refurbishment
Jurassic Park River Adventure closed early this month for an extended refurbishment. The ride is currently scheduled to remain closed through November 19, 2026.
Camp Jurassic Maintenance
A portion of Camp Jurassic in Islands of Adventure is blocked off with construction walls, likely for maintenance.
Restroom Location Closed at Islands of Adventure
The restrooms next to Backwater Bar in Port of Entry are closed, presumably for renovation, as Universal continues updating restroom facilities throughout the resort.
CityWalk Billboards Updated
The billboards at the CityWalk entrance were recently updated, swapping out the old, faded displays for new ones.
New Harry Potter & Simpsons Merchandise
A new Hogwarts poncho is now available at various stores throughout Universal Orlando, priced at $50. The black poncho has the Hogwarts crest on the left chest, with a larger all-white version of the crest printed on the back.
Here’s a close-up look at the crest on the front.
The poncho includes a storage bag that matches the design on its back.
A new The Simpsons Spirit Jersey is available for $85. The front features a small The Simpsons logo, while the back displays a larger logo at the top with clouds and Marge, Homer, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie along the bottom. We spotted it at the Islands of Adventure Trading Company, though we expect it to be in stock in other stores as well.
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