Welcome to the all-new Theme Park Weekly. We’ll talk briefly about news stories and events happening in the theme park world, that we simply don’t have time to write a whole article about. With the off season for many parks, a lot of parks are gearing up for the season, and still making announcements for the upcoming season.
Let’s get right to it.
Cedar Fair
Top Thrill Dragster was once the tallest fastest coaster in the world, when it made it’s debut in 2005. In 2021, however, the legendary coaster closed permanently when a piece of the coaster fell off and struck a rider in the head. Last week, Cedar Point revealed that the legendary coaster may not be completely gone, as it tweeted “A new formula for thrills. Coming 2024.” Many believe that TTD will once again roar to life in 2024. Full Story.
SeaWorld/Busch Gardens
It pays to be a Busch Gardens Tampa Passholder, as they got a rare Howl O Scream treat this past Friday the13th. The park hosted a “HOS Pop Up” in which they took guests on a behind the scenes, lights on tour of their popular maze “Witch of the Woods.” The event was announced on the official Facebook page. The park also has Howl O Scream advertised in the park, with a sign about hiring next to the Witch of the Woods facade. The event will kick off for 2023 on September 8th and run through Halloween.
Free beer is back until January 31st at SeaWorld Orlando. The park, once known for free daily beer samples, has brought back the popular freebie. Guests can take advantage until the end of the month and can venture the Waterway Grill beginning at 11a.m. daily.
Mardi Gras is officially coming to every park in the SeaWorld/Busch Gardens chain. The event kicked off this past weekend at Busch Gardens Tampa, and will soon be coming to life at SeaWorld Orlando, San Antonio and San Diego. Mardi Gras will also happen soon at Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Virginia.
Universal Studios
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is set to open at Universal Studios Hollywood on January 27th. The new restaurant in CityWalk will feature a huge menu and will include amazing chocolatey desserts. There’s even been reports of soft openings of the new restaurant.
The all-new Super Nintendo World coming to Universal Studios Hollywood is set to debut on Feb. 17th, 2023, but it’s currently undergoing technical rehearsals. That means we already have our first looks at the new Mario Kart ride, which is the centerpiece attraction of the entire new land.
Spoilers Ahead, watch with caution.
That wraps up this week’s edition, hope you have a great week.