Month: August 2024

Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines Satisfies as a Sequel House at Halloween Horror Nights 33

The newest iteration in a series of houses based on Universal’s bread and butter is Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines. Celebrating the creatures who created the studio we know today, the house explores an all-new story featuring three characters.

House

Poster for Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights featuring "Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines" with vampire, werewolf, and mummy characters against a dark, misty background and a full moon. Dive into the chilling lore where "Eternal Bloodlines" haunt every shadow.

Get caught in an epic battle as Saskia Van Helsing and the Bride of Frankenstein go up against Dracula’s daughter and her monstrous mavens.

Backstory

People are entering a large white tent with a sign that reads "Eternal Bloodlines." The sky is partly cloudy, and there are ropes set up for queuing. It feels like the beginning of Halloween Horror Nights, an air of suspense and intrigue thickening with every step closer to the entrance.

This house is billed as a direct sequel to 2020/2021’s Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives. After resurrecting Frankenstein’s monster, the Bride lost him again after an attack by the She-Wolf of London. In search of revenge, she teams up with Saskia van Helsing, who is being hunted by Dracula’s daughter, the Countess Marya. Marya and the She-Wolf unite with Anck-Su-Namun to battle Saskia and the Bride.

Other than the Bride of Frankenstein, the characters featured are more obscure classic Monsters, following the pattern of years prior (such as HHN 31’s Universal Monsters: Legends Collide, which featured Kharis the Mummy instead of Imhotep).

Anck-Su-Namun is from 1999’s “The Mummy.” The She-Wolf of London is inspired by the 1946 movie of the same name and the (completely unrelated) television series from 1990-1991. Both were Universal Studios creations. Countess Marya Zaleska is from 1936’s “Dracula’s Daughter.” All three were featured in the Silver Screen Queenz scare zone at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2021.

Unlike the others, Saskia van Helsing is a brand-new character created specifically for Eternal Bloodlines.

Review of Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines

A large white tent with a tall banner featuring the video game "Eternal Bloodlines" stands prominently under a blue sky. Several people, perhaps anticipating some thrills akin to Universal Monsters at Halloween Horror Nights, gather near the entrance.

Our first run of this house happened during a shift change, which is always a bummer, but we had the full cast on our second run and it 100% makes the house work.

The sets are great, and being a tent house allows for a lot more than the old styles do. Visually, Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines is similar to Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives, and that’s clear when comparing aspects like the castle design inside, as well as the overall narration by Saskia.

The house opens on Saskia visiting her father’s grave and vowing revenge for his death. She mentions the harvest moon just before we happen upon the She-Wolf attacking Frankenstein and The Bride. Saskia comes upon the scene and gets us out of there before teaming up with The Bride.

Saskia eventually tries to steal the amulet from Anck-Su-Namun, which leads to Anck teaming up with Countess Marya. We loved her full bat/vampire mask and thought it was very cool.

The cast kills it here. They’re clearly having a good time, which always makes for a good house.

This house is one where we can never tell how much our bias plays a part, but it definitely does to a degree. We love the Classic Monsters and the HHN version of The Bride. Having an interest in both of these will boost your enjoyment of the house if you’ve been following their storyline year after year.

It’s easy to become invested in the characters here, and the house is skewed so you root for Saskia and The Bride, but it absolutely works. Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines is a tragic house and leaves the door open for another “sequel.”

All that being said, it may not land quite the same for those unfamiliar with the long-running history of Universal Monsters haunted houses at Halloween Horror Nights.

Rating out of 7: 6

Location of Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines

People entering an outdoor event with signage and security personnel. The sign displays a "5 minute wait" notice. White tents and a partly cloudy sky are in the background, setting the stage for what looks like a Goblin's Feast awaits beyond.

The entrance to Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines is located in World Expo near MIB Gear. Find it at G on the map below. It also shares an entrance with Goblin’s Feast.

Official map of Universal Studios Florida's amusement park with labeled attractions, pathways, and water features marked by colored letters and numbers. Key areas include green dots for attractions and red bars for pathways, perfect for navigating during Halloween Horror Nights.

More Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines at Halloween Horror Nights 33

A black long-sleeve shirt and a coffin-shaped souvenir featuring artwork promoting "Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines" from Halloween Horror Nights 33. The art, inspired by Universal Monsters, depicts various creatures and a full moon.

A collection of merchandise was released for Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines. See it all in our full list with prices and find it at merchandise locations around the resort.

Outdoor food stand named Twilight Tavern with brick and green decor, surrounded by plants and an umbrella. Two menus with prices are displayed on either side of the stand. A sign mentions Halloween Horror Nights 33.

There’s also a food booth themed to Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines. It can be found at Gramercy Park in New York and features The Bride’s Cake, Forbidden Falafel, and more.

Halloween Horror Nights 33 at Universal Orlando Resort runs on select nights from August 30 – November 3. Stay tuned for our full guide to this year’s event.

For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT.

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Living with the Land Decorated for 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

Props and signs related to the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival have been added throughout Living with the Land. Many of the ingredients used during the Food & Wine Festival are grown in the greenhouses shown during the ride.

Living with the Land Decorated

A greenhouse interior with a wooden pergola, tables covered with plants and vegetables, and a sign promoting agricultural programs at the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Various plants and greenery are visible in the background, embodying the theme of Living with the Land.

Guests who ride Living with the Land during the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival will notice props have been added throughout the ride. The props highlight foods from the countries that are represented in World Showcase.

The above scene honors the Mexico booth and its offerings during Food & Wine. Margaritas, limes, and vegetables sit on a yellow tablecloth. The sign next to this scene reads “Celebrate crops from around the world featured in the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.”

Outdoor display with potted plants, a small table with a red cloth, woven cushions on the ground, and signage indicating "Scallions - Living With the Land" at the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

In the photo above, a table has been set and bao has been placed on three plates. Next to the table, the “Scallions” sign has received a Food & Wine Festival overlay. The sign says “China” above “Shanghai Scallion Noodles.” An image of the new dish being offered at the China booth during this year’s festival is also on the sign.

A low wooden table with tea set items is surrounded by small circular cushions, potted plants, and signs labeled "Daikon Radish" and "Swiss Chard" in an outdoor garden setting reminiscent of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival 2024.

Another scene depicted includes a Japanese table set up near Daikon radish. The Food & Wine Festival sign features an image of Temaki Sushi, which is being offered with both eel and wagyu beef at this year’s Food & Wine Festival.

A sign in front of lush green plants reads "SWEET POTATO" and mentions the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. The area, reminiscent of Living With the Land, is surrounded by structural supports.

Another sign advertises sweet potatoes which are used in a new Frozen Sweet Potato Mousse at Swirled Showcase.

A display in a greenhouse shows baskets with various plants labeled "Celery" and "Parsley." A wine rack stands nearby, and a table with more plants is present. Hydroponic setups are visible in the background, highlighting innovations featured at the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival's Living with the Land exhibit.

A table has been set and covered with wine, a charcuterie board, bread, and a colorful tablecloth. A somewhat full wine rack sits next to the table. Signs here honor dishes using parsley in the France booth and celery in the Canada booth.

Two wicker chairs with tropical cushions are arranged in front of an herb garden display featuring basil, reminiscent of the Living With the Land exhibit. The serene setting feels like a preview of what to expect at the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

Two chairs are stationed around a small table. The sign next to the chairs is for basil which is used in Thai Shrimp with Noodles at The Noodle Exchange.

In the hydroponic garden at the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, labeled planters contain chickpeas, micromelons, and bitter melons. Each is tagged with signs detailing their names and origins, part of the Living With the Land exhibit.

A bicycle prop loaded with plants has been stationed behind a chickpeas sign. The chickpeas are used for dishes served at Tangerine Cafe.

A display of various tropical plants in pots, adorned with colorful lei garlands, is set up on a concrete surface under a green canopy, capturing the essence of Living with the Land at the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

Though there are no signs indicating what the above scene is representative of, the leis and ukelele are clearly a nod to the Hawai’i booth that guests can visit this year.

An outdoor garden area at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival displays various potted plants, including labeled pineapples, with small pineapples in a crate on the ground. Signage explains different plants, inviting guests to explore and learn.

Pineapples have been lined up in a crate next to a pineapple sign. These fruits are used as ingredients for pork sliders served at the Hawai’i booth during Food & Wine.

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival began on August 29 and will conclude on November 23. A full collection of merchandise is now available at EPCOT, including an entire collection dedicated to The Muppets. Guests can also participate in Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt and visit the newly transformed CommuniCore Hall.

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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Witney Carson Set To Return To The Ballroom On Upcoming Season of “Dancing With The Stars”

An acclaimed mirrorball trophy winner is heading back to the ballroom. What’s Happening: This morning on Good Morning America, it was announced that professional dancer (and mirrorball trophy winner) Witney Carson will be returning to Dancing with the Stars for its 33rd season. She last competed during season 31, making it to the finale with partner […]

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Photos/Video: The Many Adventures of Winne the Pooh Reopens at Disneyland Resort

In preparation for the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Critter Country closed down for a multi-month refurbishment. This week, portions of the area, which will become Bayou Country, reopened to guests including The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. The Adventures Continue: The Many Adventures of Winne the Pooh has reopened today after closing for […]

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MINISO Opens New Santa Monica Location with Limited-Time Stitch Takeover and New Disney Stamp Blind Box Series

MINISO recently opened its 200th U.S. store in Santa Monica, which currently features a limited-time Stitch beach-style takeover. What’s Happening: Lifestyle brand MINISO opened its 200th store in the United States in Santa Monica, California on August 24th. Located at the iconic 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica, the store is currently showcasing a limited-time […]

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Goblin’s Feast is the Sleeper Hit of Halloween Horror Nights 33

It’s not just Halloween — it’s feast day in a goblin village. Guests who visit Goblin’s Feast at Halloween Horror Nights 33 in Universal Studios Florida might just be eaten alive.

House

Enter a goblin village, where a feast is being prepared for goblins, orcs, hobgoblins and witches. And you’re the main course.

Promotional image for Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights event Goblin's Feast, taking place on select nights from August 30 to November 3.

Backstory

People stand outside a fantasy-themed wooden house with a sign reading "Goblin's Feast." The area, bathed in ethereal light, is surrounded by barriers and elaborate lighting equipment.

Guests are invited to the annual Goblin’s Feast, but what they don’t know is that they’re on the menu. The feast celebrates the day goblins and other creatures defeated humans and elves. The story shared in the “Halloween Horror Nights: Echoes from the Fog” series follows the young goblin Doaug preparing for the feast. She visits the village witch and the burial forest where the bodies of fallen goblins are placed inside hollowed-out trees. She witnesses a royal hobgoblin messenger read a proclamation from King Pusnubber. Then she returns home, where she is allowed to take the first swing of the mallet on the skull of the roasted human her family will devour.

Review of Goblin’s Feast

Entrance to the "Goblin's Feast" attraction displaying a 5-minute wait time. A warning sign lists ride restrictions and rules. Attendees can be seen queuing and eagerly entering through the standby entrance to experience the Goblin's Feast.

This is a sleeper hit and might just be the best house of the year — if not one of the best Halloween Horror Nights houses ever. If you had told us in the middle of the house that we were in a sprung tent, we would not have believed you. There are multi-level, elevated sets. The sets and costumes are great.

Image of an aged building exterior with a tattered sign reading "Goblin's Feast" and a wooden plaque indicating "Elroy's Farmhouse." Overcast sky and foliage are visible in the background.

A “Goblin’s Feast” banner hangs on the façade, covering a “Human Slaughterhouse” sign. Once inside, the goblins drop the act pretty quickly and start trying to kill the humans. A fellow human is in a cell marked “catch of the day.” Across from a huge water wheel is a window into a house where a goblin family is saying grace over limbs.

A rustic building with worn walls and a gabled roof displays a sign reading "Goblin's Feast." The structure features a chimney and a goblin statue above the window, embodying the essence of its name.

The goblins have nicely done masks and some are jaw-dropping giant puppets. There is one enormous goblin hand. The goblins get bigger and taller as you move through the house, presumably because they are eating so many people. There are also creatures like orcs.

Our host for Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horrors noted that a recurring theme for this year is our survival without defeating the evil. This is definitely the case here. Guests escape but the goblins live and are still clearly eating people.

Rating out of 7: 7

Location of Goblin’s Feast

Three electronic signs display a 5-minute wait time for attractions "Goblin's Forest" and "Eternal Blood" in a theme park. Nearby, people chatter excitedly, perhaps discussing the infamous Goblin's Feast as they walk past.

Goblin’s Feast is located in World Expo, next to Men In Black: Alien Attack. It’s at G on the map below.

People entering an outdoor event with signage and security personnel. The sign displays a "5 minute wait" notice. White tents and a partly cloudy sky are in the background, setting the stage for what looks like a Goblin's Feast awaits beyond.

It actually shares an entrance with Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines.

Official map of Universal Studios Florida's amusement park with labeled attractions, pathways, and water features marked by colored letters and numbers. Key areas include green dots for attractions and red bars for pathways, perfect for navigating during Halloween Horror Nights.

More Goblin’s Feast at HHN 33

An empty themed booth resembling a stone fortress facade with some plants and two lanterns stands ready for Halloween Horror Nights. A sign reads "Pardon our dust." Nearby is a wooden cabinet with an umbrella and a chair.

A Goblin’s Feast-inspired food booth is located between Springfield, U.S.A., and the London waterfront. The menu includes Harissa BBQ Turkey Wing, Pumpkin Guts, Goblin Pie, and Ghoul Juice.

For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT.

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The Match Game and Lively Evening in CommuniCore Hall, TONIGHT!

Tonight, don’t miss the internet’s only comedy show about Disney Parks! It’s WDW News Tonight! Join us at 9 p.m. ET for a recap of the latest news, entertainment at CommuniCore Hall, WDWNT: The Match Game, and more!

WDW News Tonight

Hosted by Tom Corless and Nick LoCicero, WDW News Tonight is a live, weekly program that combines the latest headlines, comedy, and games to bring Disney fans a one-of-a-kind show covering Disney Parks.

The show can be watched live on the WDWNT TV YouTube channel. Live studio audience tickets are available at WDWNewsTonight.com.

Coming up on this week’s show:

  • A recap of the latest Disney Parks news (with a WDWNT comedic twist)
  • WDWNT: The Match Game
  • Boxed In: EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Merchandise
  • And more!

We hope you will tune in tonight at 9 p.m. ET for WDW News Tonight!

If you missed our last show, you can watch it here.

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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Photos: Muppet Labs Is “Brew-Wing” New Experiments At EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

The Brew-Wing Lab at the Odyssey has opened as a part of the 2024 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival. Of course, this very high-tech, ahead-of-the-curve space has been created in partnership with Muppet Labs. Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and Beaker have been on hand in recent years to help with Food & Wine at EPCOT and […]

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The 2024 Holiday Season Arrives at Disneyland Resort November 15!

Get ready to deck the halls and jingle all the way to the Happiest Place on Earth! The 2024 Holiday Season at Disneyland Resort is set to dazzle guests with festive magic starting November 15, 2024, through January 6, 2025. This year’s celebration promises to be a spectacular blend of cherished traditions and exciting new offerings that will delight visitors of all ages. Let’s unwrap the details of this magical season and discover why Disneyland Resort remains the ultimate destination for holiday cheer!

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A Festive Wonderland Awaits

As you step into Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, you’ll be transported into a winter wonderland that sparkles with holiday spirit. The entire resort transforms into a festive spectacle, with twinkling lights, garlands, and decorations adorning every corner. Main Street, U.S.A. becomes a picturesque Victorian-era Christmas card come to life, while Sleeping Beauty’s Castle shimmers with icy blue lights, creating a breathtaking centerpiece for the park.

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Returning Favorites

Many beloved holiday traditions are making their triumphant return this year, ensuring that longtime fans and first-time visitors alike will experience the magic of the season. Here are some of the can’t-miss attractions and events:

it’s a small world Holiday: This classic attraction gets a festive makeover, featuring hundreds of dolls dressed in holiday attire singing a medley of holiday tunes alongside the iconic It’s a Small World theme.

Haunted Mansion Holiday: Jack Skellington and his friends from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas take over the Haunted Mansion, offering a unique blend of Halloween and Christmas cheer.

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A Christmas Fantasy Parade: Marvel at this heartwarming procession featuring beloved Disney characters, toy soldiers, dancing gingerbread cookies, and Santa Claus himself.

Believe… In Holiday Magic Fireworks Spectacular: End your night with a bang as the sky above Sleeping Beauty’s Castle erupts in a dazzling display of pyrotechnics set to classic holiday music.

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Disney California Adventure’s Festival of Holidays

Across the esplanade, Disney California Adventure Park hosts its annual Festival of Holidays, a multicultural celebration of the season that honors diverse holiday traditions from around the world. This immersive experience includes:

Festive Foods Marketplace: Indulge in a global culinary journey with seasonal treats and international cuisine at the various marketplace kiosks scattered throughout the park.

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Disney ¡Viva Navidad!: Join the fun at this lively street party featuring Mexican folk dancers, mariachis, and Disney characters dressed in their festive best.

World of Color – Season of Light: Experience the wonder of this nighttime spectacular that combines water, light, and music to tell heartwarming holiday stories.

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New for 2024: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

One of the most anticipated additions to this year’s holiday lineup is the grand opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure on November 15, 2024. This reimagining of the former Splash Mountain attraction brings guests into the world of The Princess and the Frog, offering a magical journey through the bayous of New Orleans. While not specifically holiday-themed, the attraction’s opening coincides with the start of the holiday season, adding an extra layer of excitement for visitors.

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Holiday Shopping Extravaganza

No holiday visit to Disneyland Resort would be complete without some magical gift-giving. The shops along Main Street, U.S.A., and throughout both parks will be brimming with exclusive holiday merchandise, including:

  • Limited-edition ornaments featuring beloved Disney characters
  • Festive apparel and accessories
  • Holiday-themed pins and collectibles
  • Seasonal treats and confections perfect for stocking stuffers

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Dining with Holiday Flair

Disneyland Resort’s renowned culinary team pulls out all the stops during the holiday season, offering a delectable array of seasonal specialties:

Holiday Treats: Indulge in festive churros, Mickey-shaped beignets, gingerbread cookies, and peppermint-flavored everything throughout the parks.

Character Dining: Enjoy special holiday-themed character meals at restaurants like Goofy’s Kitchen and Plaza Inn.

Festive Table-Service Options: Make reservations for holiday menus at upscale dining locations such as Carthay Circle Restaurant and Napa Rose.

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Tips for Maximizing Your Holiday Visit

To make the most of your magical holiday experience at Disneyland Resort, consider these insider tips:

  1. Book Early: Holiday season is one of the busiest times at Disneyland Resort. Secure your park reservations and dining reservations well in advance.
  2. Use Genie+ and Lightning Lane: To experience as many attractions as possible during peak holiday crowds, consider purchasing Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections.
  3. Attend Special Events: Look out for after-hours holiday parties or events that may offer exclusive experiences and shorter wait times for popular attractions.
  4. Explore Both Parks: While Disneyland Park is iconic, don’t miss out on the unique holiday offerings at Disney California Adventure.
  5. Capture the Magic: Take advantage of Disney PhotoPass photographers stationed throughout the parks to capture your holiday memories with stunning backdrops.

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A Season of Wonder and Joy

As the 2024 Holiday Season at Disneyland Resort approaches, excitement builds for the magical experiences that await. From the twinkling lights of Main Street, U.S.A. to the heartwarming traditions and new adventures like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a longtime Disney fan or planning your first visit, the holiday season at Disneyland Resort promises to create memories that will last a lifetime.

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So mark your calendars for November 15, 2024, and prepare to be swept away by the enchantment of the holidays at the Happiest Place on Earth. With its perfect blend of nostalgia, innovation, and pure Disney magic, the 2024 Holiday Season at Disneyland Resort is sure to be a celebration you won’t want to miss. Start planning your visit now, and get ready to experience the joy, wonder, and merriment that only Disney can provide during this most wonderful time of the year.

Photos: Vertical Construction Begins on New Haunted Mansion Gift Shop at Disneyland

Vertical construction has begun on the new Madame Leota-themed gift shop coming to The Haunted Mansion at Disneyland. What’s Happening: Madame Leota’s presence is set to linger beyond the walls of The Haunted Mansion with an all-new retail shop. This carriage house of the mansion, belonging to Leota, will be a standalone shop that will be located […]

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