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    Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights Survival Guide 2022

    Halloween Horror Nights Universal Studios Hollywood
    Every year Halloween Horror Nights seems to get bigger and bigger, and so do the crowds. 2021 was one of the busiest years for Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood and given the line-up of attractions for 2022, we expect pretty much the same thing this year. 

    Below you will find some of our tips for making the most out of your Halloween Horror Nights experience. Some do's and don'ts and most importantly, what should be your "plan of attack" for the night. 

    You can also check out the HHN site for more information on tickets, hours, etc. 
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    Event Dates

    September: 8-11, 15-18, 22-25, 29-30
    October: 1-2, 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 27-31
    Tips: 
    • BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE!!! The event sells out. Tickets will not be available at the ticket booths. Make sure you print them or use your phone to get in the gates. 
    • GET A FRONT OF THE LINE PASS!!! We can't stress this enough. If your budget can swing it this is truly the best way to have an enjoyable and relaxing night at the event. Click here for Front of the Line Pass info and prices. Front of the Line passes sell out so your best bet is to get them online. 
    • DON'T GO ON A FRIDAY OR SATURDAY NIGHT!!! If you cannot swing the cost of the Front of the Line Pass then you should try to go on a slower night. Sunday's are typically a good night to go, especially early in the event. Last year however, Thursday Nights were busier than we'd ever seen them.  
    • DON'T BE LATE!!! You are paying a LOT of $$ to go to HHN. Don't show up at 9:00pm and expect to do everything or expect there to be no lines. The event starts at 7:00pm, you should be lined up by 6:00pm AT THE LATEST. Earlier on Friday and Saturday nights. 
    • USE EARLY ENTRY!!! Basically this is your best way to get into the event easily. Early Entry begins at 6:00. ​
      • This means you need to be at the park and in line for early entry by 5:00! 
    • IGNORE THE RIDES!!! (Unless you have a Front of the Line Pass). You are there for Halloween Horror Nights. You can come back on most days and ride Jurassic World, Mummy, The Simpsons or Transformers: 3D all you want. Especially if you have an Annual Pass. Ride lines are typically longer during HHN than they are during the day.
      • If you have visitors from out of town, consider the After 2pm Day/Night Pass so you can ride during the day and get scared at night. These passes are available on the HHN site when you buy tickets. 
    • Get the App!! The Universal Studios Hollywood app is great, even better during HHN. It will allow you to see what has long waits and what you can come back to later in favor of something not so long. 
    • WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES!!! This should pretty much be a no brainer but you'd be surprised what we've seen some people wearing. With the Terror Tram being even longer this year, you will still be walking A LOT. You will be taking escalators up and down to the lower lot. Do yourself a favor and be comfortable. 
    • Avoid the busiest nights: HHN is busy every night, some nights are "less busy". Assume that any night not included with the regular Frequent Fear Pass to be the busiest nights. These would be Oct: 8, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29. 
    • New Tip for 2022! - Get a Frequent Fear Pass: This really is the best way to see all of Halloween Horror Nights, and not feel that you have to rush through to get everything done in one night. We've found that we really do enjoy going on multiple nights, doing a few houses, and just hanging out and enjoying the event. 
    • New Tip for 2022! - After 10pm Express: Yes, there is an Express Pass that is only good after 10pm, and it's only sold at the event. If you got to the event late, or just want to make sure you experience everything, this is a pretty great deal. But be warned, this DOES sell out (we got the last 2 one night last year). So if you see the signs for the After 10pm Express, get them right away! 
    Early Entry Attractions

    The Weeknd, Killer Klowns and Universal Monsters Legends Collide

    We've been able to confirm that the 3 lower lot houses will be available for early entry this year! Early Entry begins at 6:00pm every night. 
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    Recommended House Order
    We HIGHLY RECOMMEND you get to the park for Early Entry! This gives you your best chance to experience all of the attractions without Front of the Line. 
    This rundown of recommended houses is if you are using early entry. That's how much we recommend it. If you aren't doing Early Entry, we will have a recommended house order list below. 

    We've made some major changes to our house order thanks to a thread from @tai-nugget on Twitter who has been to the event a few nights. 

    We kind of thought this may have been the way to go after Sunday night, but this has pretty much confirmed it. Check out our updated strategy below. 
    Front of the Line tip: If lines are short when you get to the a particular attraction (or if you are there for Early Entry) DO NOT use your Front of the Line Pass early in the evening. Go through once in the stand-by line and then use your Front of the Line later in the evening. This way you get two trips through each House. With no backlot this year, getting back to a favorite house will be rather easy. 
    First Maze: Killer Klowns 

    That's right, Killer Klowns should be your first maze. This has consistently been THE LONGEST wait of the entire event, we're not quite sure why. Instead of getting in The Weeknd Early Entry queue, head for Killer Klowns first. 
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    Express Tip: Don't worry about using your Front of the Line during early entry. The Express line for The Weeknd was super long right as early entry started. Use it later when you come back downstairs. 
    Next, we're going to forget the Lower Lot for now, as The Weeknd likely has about a 90 minute wait, and Universal Monsters has averaged about a 30 minute wait. Instead we're going to head to the upper lot for the opening of Wizarding World, Halloween and Scarecrow at 6:45. Head to the side entrance to Wizarding World between the Studio Tour and Three Broomsticks. 
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    Halloween and Scarecrow: The Reaping
    Head straight through Hogsmeade and directly to Halloween and Scarecrow The Reaping. 
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    Halloween has been getting very long waits so you should head here first, followed by Scarecrow The Reaping. 
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    Express Tip: If you happen to get here and the lines or short (30 minutes or less), go through the Stand-By line and then use your Front of the Line so you get to experience each house twice. 
    Universal Horror Hotel and La Llarona 
    After getting through the Curious George houses, head back through Hogsmeade and visit Universal Horror Hotel and La Llarona. 
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    Express Tip: Just like before, if the stand-by lines are relatively short (30 minutes or less) go through the stand-by line and then you can experience both of these houses one last time on your way out. 
    Death Eaters in Wizarding World and Terror Tram
    This is usually the part of the yearly guide where we tell you to take a break, grab a snack, etc. And this year the Death Eaters will be out in Wizarding World, so this is probably a great place to take that break. 
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    Express Tip: If the line for the Terror Tram is relatively short, 30 minutes or less, you CAN go through the stand-by line and use your Front of the Line later. But remember, this experience generally takes 30-45 minutes from beginning to end and closes early, so you may not have time to do it twice. Plus, there's a LOT of walking on this one. =) 
    If you didn't take a break before now, it's a good time to do it. You can grab a snack in Springfield, at Dia De Los Muertos or Hogsmeade. In addition, single rider for Forbidden Journey has been open, so it's an easy trek from the Terror Tram over there. ​
    Universal Monsters and The Weeknd
    It's now time to head back to the Lower Lot and visit Universal Monsters and The Weeknd. 

    If you didn't grab a snack/take a break upstairs, you can do so at Jurassic Café, the Killer Klowns BBQ or Ice Cream shop. The Weeknd bar is also down here, but has been getting crazy long waits. 

    Keep in mind, house lines go down as the night goes on, so feel free to take a spin on one or two lower lot attractions (be sure to check if the single rider is open!) 
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    Express Tip: If the lines are relatively short, 30 minutes or less, feel free to use Stand By and then experience them again with your Express pass. Remember, you still have an Express pass for Killer Klowns too! 
    Blumhouse
    It's getting late in the evening, you're tired, but you only have one house left to go. But that's ok, it's on your way out. 
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    ​Express Tip: Just like before, if the stand-by line is relatively short (30 minutes or less) go through the stand-by line and then use your Front of the Line to experience each house twice. 
    Food
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    Upper Lot: Back this year is the Dia De Los Muertos area in Universal Plaza. We absolutely loved this area last year, and it's a great place to get a snack, a drink and check out the awesome displays. 

    Lower Lot: Killer Klowns BBQ and Weekend Bar

    Click here for all of the yummy food details. 
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    Not Using Early Entry

    We get it, it's LA Traffic, maybe you had to work and can't get to the park for Early Entry. It happens. Here is our recommended house order if you are getting to the event at 7:00. 

    If you do not get to HHN in time for early entry but are there at opening check the wait time for the Lower Lot Houses. If they are 45 minutes or more, head to the Curious George Houses first. The lines will be there all night. Better to wait in some shorter lines and come back and wait for The Weeknd, Killer Klowns and Universal Monsters later.

    No Early Entry House Order: 
    • Curious George Houses (Halloween and Scarecrow The Reaping)
    • Terror Tram
    • Lower Lot Houses (The Weeknd, Killer Klowns and Universal Monsters)
    • La Llorona/Universal Horror Hotel
    • Blumhouse 

    Remember, you can always get the After 11pm Express passes to make sure you can see everything without early entry. 
    Jabbawockeez
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    Like the last few years, there is only one show at HHN this year. Once we get showtimes we'll update this with recommended times to go. 

    Once you have completed all the houses you can hang around the scare zones and watch the talent, check the wait board to see if there are any short house or ride lines or if you have a Front of the Line Pass use up any trips you haven't already. 
    Chainsaw Chaseout
    If you are brave enough, not tired enough, or want to experience a true Horror Nights Hollywood original, stay until the very end of the night and experience Chainsaw Chaseout. This is absolutely one of our favorite things every year, and we always make at least one late night trip to HHN to experience it (the benefits of having Frequent Fear). 

    ​Even if you're not staying for Chainsaw Chaseout, make sure you do some shopping, grab a t-shirt and hang out in the scare zones before heading out. 

    Drive home safely! 
    ​Alright, that'll do it for this years Survival Guide. We will be attending 2 nights over the first weekend (once with Front of the Line and once without) so we'll be updating this for sure after opening weekend! 
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    Disneyland Update - Main Street Electrical Parade, Subs, Lamplight Lounge and More!

    Disney California Adventure Disney Parks Disneyland
    Back in late July, we made a quick 2-day visit to Disneyland prior to the kick off of Halloween fun at Midsummer Scream! We had tickets to see a concert the night before Midsummer Scream so had planned on spending a few hours at DCA before the show. 

    We then realized we hadn't actually sat down to watch the Main St. Electrical Parade since it came back, so we extended our weekend with a few hours at Disneyland. And it was amazing! 

    We were able to enjoy a few nighttime hours at the park, a few hours in the morning at DCA, an incredible 3-hour nap, a fun concert and then a couple of days at Midsummer Scream (before yet another concert the day MSS ended). It was quite the jam-packed weekend! 

    Written by Gregg Condon
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    This view never gets old

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    We hopped on the train to avoid the first main street electrical parade crowd. We had plans to see the second show since there was less of a crowd. And it worked out perfectly.

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    We got to listen to a good portion of Fantasmic! while waiting for the Haunted Mansion
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    We then headed to Batuu for a snack and to watch the fireworks. This is quickly becoming one of our favorite places to see them.

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    But be warned, it's LOUD over here.

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    Exactly a year to the day our son and future daughter in-law got engaged in this spot, so we of course had to take pics and text to them.
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    While waiting for the MSEP, we started to hear some weird noises, and then the super fun "We don't talk about Bruno" show started on It's a Small World. We had no idea it was even a thing. But loved it.

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    Even though I'll never ride them again, figured I should get some night shots of the Submarine Voyage.

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    It sure does look beautiful

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    But there's just something about sitting in a steel tube with recycled air while we're still in a pandemic that doesn't appeal to me at all. I get it, that also describes planes, but those are a necessity.

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    Love the addition of Hank

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    Of course, the main reason we decided to come down to Orange County a day early, the Main St. Electrical Parade. We also tried something new that night and did a live stream on Instagram.

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    I know it's the nostalgia in me, but I love this.

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    The best

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    Dopey is still a pretty good driver!

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    After the MSEP we decided to take a ride on Storybook land. I really liked how this picture turned out.

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    I know we've ridden this since the parks reopened, but neither of us could remember Arendale being a part of the attraction.

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    Day two, it was time for a quick visit to DCA and brunch at Lamplight Lounge.

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    Believe it or not, this was our first time riding this

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    On one of our favorite silly rides at DCA!

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    How we feel when Emotional Whirlwind is closed

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    After rides on Little Mermaid, Grizzly and the Zephyr, it was time for brunch!

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    We had never eaten here before. Not when it was Wolfgang Puck. Not when it was Ariel's Grotto.

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    My new hat, with super-tag 
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    I tried the Brunch Burger and it was fantastic. We will definitely be eating here again.

    That's a wrap on Summertime at Disneyland! We'll be back down at the resort during D23 so will spending a few hours at the park on that Saturday night. Stay tuned to all of our social media this next week as we'll be visiting Silver Dollar City on Sunday, Cedar Point next Tue-Thu, Kings Island next Fri-Sat and Canada's Wonderland on Labor Day. 

    And then it's back to Southern California on September 8th for Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood, then D23!! We've got a packed few months coming your way! 
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    Cemetery Lane Rises From The Grave Oct. 19-30. Tickets On Sale This Saturday!

    Cemetery Lane, SoCal’s New Halloween Trick-R-Treating Tradition, Adds a Second Weekend for 2022 Run 

    Tickets on sale, Saturday, August 27, for its highly anticipated return
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    LOS ANGELES, CA – The Cemetery Lane trick-r-treat experience returns to Heritage Square Museum in Los Angeles for select dates between October 19-30, 2022. Costumed visitors of all ages will make their way from home to home in the safely gated ‘neighborhood’ of Heritage Square Museum’s Victorian manors, which have been reimagined into a Halloween night from an era when the Addams Family, the Munsters and residents of the Twilight Zone joined millions of 1950’s and 1960’s American families in their homes each week.

    “This year, guests will step back into the ‘50s and ‘60s when pop culture became obsessed with monster movies, as well as fascinated with the ‘horror hosts’ who permeated television airwaves late at night,” said David Markland, event Creator and Co-producer. 
    The mid-century theme of this year’s Cemetery Lane will transport guests young and old to a time when horror comics and magazines like Famous Monsters of Filmland flew off the shelves, and the real-life fears generated by the Cold War caused many a nightmare.

    After a completely sold out event for its first year in 2021, Cemetery Lane has expanded to two weekends, with hourly timed ticketing including daylight hours on Saturdays and Sundays so the younger ghouls and boils will have plenty of time to fill their candy buckets before darkness falls and the eeriness intensifies in the neighborhood of Cemetery Lane.

    Guests should expect a 45-minute to one hour immersive experience, including 13 trick-r-treat stops, character interactions, photo-ops, a selection of spooky vendors to shop from, and a curated selection of food trucks, along with other surprises.
    Cemetery Lane is resurrected by David Markland (Co-Founder and Executive Director of Midsummer Scream) and Claire Dunlap (Co-Founder/Supervising Producer of Midsummer Scream and Co-Creator/Producer of Spooky Swap Meet), with decor and effects provided by Jeff Schiefelbein (creator of Sinister Pointe Haunted Attraction).

    Tickets go on sale Saturday, August 27 at 9 a.m PST. Admission cost before 6 p.m. is $27 and from 6 p.m on is $32. Toddlers two years and under, not trick-or-treating, are admitted for free. 

    Event entry is located at 3515 Pasadena Avenue, Los Angeles, 90031. Absolutely no parking or entry is available for Cemetery Lane from Homer Street. 

    To learn more or purchase tickets, visit www.CemeteryLane.com

    Follow on Instagram @cemeterylane and Facebook www.facebook.com/cemeterylane
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    Universal Studios Hollywood Update - Halloween Horror Nights and Super Nintendo World - August 24, 2022

    'Happy late August everybody and welcome to a new update from Universal Studios Hollywood. I made an impromptu visit to the park yesterday on my way  back from San Diego as my son, who's moving to Canada, requested a butterbeer since it will be awhile before he gets back to Southern California. 

    But of course, that meant I got to take a look at some Halloween Horror Nights prep and of course Super Nintendo World. 

    Let's get right to it! 
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    All the stuff you can see in this update!

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    $30 to park in a nice covered parking structure doesn't seem so bad after that park 20 miles north is now charging $40. Sadly though, we'd expect the other parks to follow.

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    The two mazes just outside the Curious George parking structure

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    The façade for Scarecrow looks absolutely awesome!

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    Can't see much on Halloween, but the side looks great!

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    Let's head into the park! 
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    The sign we've been waiting for

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    Our first scare zone, Sideshow SlaughterHouse

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    Definitely looking forward to spending some time here

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    Hi Killer Klowns!

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    The Fiesta De Los Muertos looks absolutely fantastic

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    Lots of original posters and characters here. The artwork is fantastic!

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    Would be cool if this is Scarezone Food!

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    There's also a mini scare zone popping up near Animal Actors

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    Hello old friend

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    Let's head over and take a look at Super Nintendo World!

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    Didn't see any animation going on, but there is a lot of new stuff to see!

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    Bowser's Castle

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    An overview of the entire land

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    The warp pipe is now surrounded by blocks, and it's nice to see the nearby soundstages getting some paint and hopefully themeing soon.

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    Not Super Nintendo Related, but this John Hammond thing is absolutely awesome!

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    Out in CityWalk, they've set up some Nintendo Switch event out there. Not sure what exactly it's for, but something.

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    Walk the red carpet to Super Nintendo World

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    And lastly, work continues on Toothsome, not much to see really.

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    Selim's Universe: Or Where Six Flags Went Wrong in 2022

    Happy Monday everybody, and welcome to the first article on this side of the tracks in quite awhile. Usually we'd do something like a video of this, but this one is due for some words, maybe some well thought ones, about where we are with Six Flags, and just what the hell went wrong in 2022. 

    So let's just dive right in. 

    Written by Gregg Condon
    Topic One: THAT comment ... 

    There's been a lot of talk about Six Flags CEO Selim Bassoul's comment about the chain being the "K-mart/Walmart" chain, and that they don't want to be that any more. 

    I'll just start with this. I don't actually have a problem with the comment itself. He's not entirely wrong. 

    But it's what the chain has been for a very long time, and what the Memberships were for. 

    THAT SAID ... 

    If he wants the chain to move to the "Target" level, they have to move to the Target Level FIRST, before they start moving to the Target (or some would say Macy's) pricing level. 
    What do I mean by that? 

    Six Flags has increased prices TREMENDOUSLY for 2022, and the decrease in attendance backs this up. I've seen reports of 5-10 minute waits for most major attractions at Magic Mountain. On Saturday's. In July and August. Can you imagine what this is going to look like when all schools start? At a park that's open 365 days per year? 

    More than that, the improvements that I discussed with the CEO and his leadership team in late January simply have not materialized in a way that justifies the current price increases. 
    You have to give everybody a little taste of what's to come before you price them out. 

    Let me repeat that ... 
    YOU HAVE TO GIVE PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN PATRONIZING YOUR PARKS FOR DECADES, AND HAVE SEEN THE ISSUES IN THE PARKS, A GLIMPSE AT WHAT'S TO COME IN ORDER TO GET THEM ON-BOARD WITH THE NEW STRATEGY AND PRICING. 
    You almost have to wonder if the parks are being intentionally run into the ground, and if the other park chains are staking out what part of Six Flags they want. 
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    Topic Two: Nobody is buying the new passes

    Right now, at least here in Southern California, Six Flags is the third most expensive Annual Pass, only behind the Universal Platinum Pass and Disneyland. Let that sink in. And that should tell you exactly why the new passes are not selling. 

    (click images below to see larger version) 
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    Six Flags Passes

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    Knott's/Cedar Fair Passes

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    Universal Studios Hollywood Passes

    ​And this is exactly what I told them would happen in January. And honestly, it seemed they were listening, at least that was the impression I got. But apparently they already had their set formula and they are sticking with it, to the detriment of the parks, and all who work there. 

    Last Saturday I saw a picture from the Magic Mountain parking booths. I was disgusted when I saw that it was $40 to park there. For general parking. In, quite frankly, that piece of $*** parking lot. There is zero justification for that other than gouging your customer. 

    If I was a one-day ticket holder and saw that, I probably would have turned around. 
    Topic Three: You still aren't promoting your parks

    ​One of the other big things I touched on with them in January was social media, and the promotion of their parks. 

    I'm just going to say one thing that's going to probably get me in trouble with some people, but here goes anyway. 

    SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS IS NOT THE FLAGSHIP PARK OF THE SIX FLAGS CHAIN. 

    Phew, that feels better. 

    But seriously, I love that Jeffrey Siebert loves the park he heads, and that he's so out there on social media with some truly amazing park updates. He should love his job. 

    But the rest of the chain, nary a social media post to be seen. Only when they're promoting the new (disgusting) coke flavor (where all parks used the same picture of SFMM), or some National Roller Coaster Day posts. That's it. 

    Six Flags Magic Mountain, Great Adventure, Great America, even Over Texas are the flagship parks of this chain. Yet you hardly ever see anything about these parks on social media. Why? 
    Topic Four: Are the improvements REALLY happening?

    ​If they are making all of these improvements to the park, why are we not seeing them? Why are you relying on bloggers to do all of this for you? And to notice what's different from their last visit? This isn't a solid business model. 

    Could it be that the improvements just haven't been happening? When I rode Wonder Woman on opening day, paint was already chipping off of the walls, people were already tagging it up. Remember the locker issues? 

    And the new store in DC Universe STILL isn't open. 

    So I guess if your improvements aren't happening there's nothing to show on social media? 
    Speaking of promoting the parks, it's sad to see one of the better PR departments in the chain get absolutely gutted. Great Adventure had an amazing PR staff. They spent their lives in dedication to that park, and the chain. Instead of losing all of that amazing passion, their roles should have been expanded. Take what they know, spread it to the other parks in the chain, show them how it's done. 

    One of the other questions we've been getting a lot are about 2023 announcements. Honestly, don't expect anything. Traditionally they would be next week. We haven't heard a peep. Other than the twice (or more) delayed attraction at Six Flags Over Texas, park improvements are going to be what we get. 

    And that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's just too bad nobody is going to have passes to see them. 
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    D23 EXPO TO KICK OFF WITH EPIC OPENING CEREMONY THAT INCLUDES DISNEY LEGENDS AWARDS

    CEO Bob Chapek Will Give Fans a First Look at Disney 100 Years of Wonder

    Tamron Hall to Host the Legends Awards, Where Anthony Anderson, Kristen Bell, Chadwick Boseman, Patrick Dempsey, Josh Gad, Jonathan Groff, Idina Menzel, Ellen Pompeo, and Tracee Ellis Ross Will Be Among the Remarkable Talent Honored 
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    BURBANK, Calif. (August 19, 2022) – D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa® will kick off Friday, September 9, with a fantastic spectacle that includes the Disney Legends Awards ceremony and an early look at Disney 100 Years of Wonder—an extraordinary celebration 100 years in the making. The opening ceremony will take place at 10:30 a.m. in Hall D23 inside the Anaheim Convention Center.
     
    “For nearly a century, Disney has been entertaining and inspiring people around the world,” said Bob Chapek, CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “I can’t wait to give fans a first look at what we have in store for our hundredth anniversary, and how we’re using this occasion to celebrate all the fans and families who have welcomed Disney into their lives.”
     
    The incredible opening event, which will be streamed as part of D23 Expo [LIVE], will feature musical performances, special guests, and surprises for the audience, including a special performance by cast members from Disney On Broadway’s productions of Aladdin and The Lion King, and The North American Tour of Frozen.
     
    The Disney Legends Award is given to an individual who has made an extraordinary contribution to the Disney legacy, and this year’s honorees include Anthony Anderson, Kristen Bell, Chadwick Boseman, Rob’t Coltrin, Patrick Dempsey, Robert Price “Bob” Foster, Jonathan Groff, Don Hahn, Josh Gad, Doris Hardoon, Idina Menzel, Chris Montan, Ellen Pompeo, and Tracee Ellis Ross. Emmy® Award winner Tamron Hall will host, bringing her signature warmth and humor to the fan-favorite ceremony.
     
    The Disney Legends Awards program is a 35-year tradition of The Walt Disney Company, which began when Fred MacMurray (The Shaggy Dog, The Absent-Minded Professor, The Happiest Millionaire) was honored in 1987. The awards ceremony is just one of the many spectacular events fans can enjoy during the three-day D23 Expo.
     
    The 2022 Disney Legends Award honorees (listed alphabetically) are:
     
    Anthony Anderson grew up in Los Angeles. While pursuing his acting career, he continued his education by attending the High School for the Performing Arts, where he earned first place in the NAACP’s ACT-SO Awards. His performance, along with a dedication to his craft, earned him an arts scholarship to Howard University. Anthony has appeared in more than 20 films, and his performance on Law & Order earned him four consecutive NAACP Image Award nominations for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series. He starred in and executive produced ABC’s Emmy-nominated sitcom black-ish, winning seven NAACP Image Awards and earning seven Emmy and three Golden Globe® nominations for his role as Andre “Dre” Johnson in the series. He also executive produced and appeared in the black-ish spinoff series grown-ish and mixed-ish. His recent credits include ABC’s Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’ (2019), host of ABC’s game show To Tell the Truth (2016–), and Detective Kevin Bernard in Law & Order. In 2020 he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
     
    Kristen Bell is an award-winning actor, author, and producer, who landed her first role with Disney by lending her voice to Hiromi in the Studio Ghibli classic The Cat Returns, for the U.S. DVD release in 2005. Her voice-acting expertise would soon come in handy once again, for the two highest-grossing animated features of all time, Frozen (2013) and Frozen 2 (2019). Anna, the optimistic, comical, fearless princess (who became Queen) of Arendelle, was a spot-on role for the seasoned actor, whose singing talents and personality effortlessly shines through her performance of the character. Kristen reprised the role in Frozen Fever (2015), Olaf's Frozen Adventure (2017), Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018), and Once Upon a Snowman (2020), along with numerous video games, theme park experiences, and consumer products. Kristen also voiced Priscilla the sloth in 2016’s Oscar®-winning Zootopia and in the upcoming Disney+ series Zootopia+. She has also starred in several Disney live-action films, such as When in Rome (2010) and You Again (2010), TV specials such as Lady Gaga & The Muppets’ Holiday Spectacular (2013) and Mickey’s 90th Spectacular (2018), and myriad series from 20th Century Fox, including The Simpsons and Family Guy.
     
    Chadwick Boseman was fueled by purpose and sought to fulfill that through writing, directing, acting, and activism. His breakout performance came playing Jackie Robinson in 42, followed by his next role as James Brown in Get On Up. He then starred in the title role of Marshall, which followed a young Thurgood Marshall. Boseman joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the African Super Hero Black Panther in Captain America: Civil War before bringing the character to the forefront of his own solo film, Black Panther, which received critical acclaim, broke global box office records, and had a social and cultural impact felt globally. The film received seven Academy Award® nominations, including Marvel’s first-ever Best Picture nomination. Boseman won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture alongside the film’s ensemble. In 2019, Boseman starred in 21 Bridges. In 2020, he appeared in Da 5 Bloods, directed by Academy Award winner Spike Lee. In Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, his captivating performance as “Levee” garnered an Academy Award nomination, and he won the NAACP Image Award and the Critics Choice and Screen Actors Guild awards, among numerous others. On television, he most recently received an Emmy nomination for his work in the Disney+ animated series What If...?
     
    Rob’t Coltrin joined Walt Disney Imagineering in 1990 in the Show Set Design group and over time progressed through multiple disciplines—including show design, concept design, and art direction—before landing in his final role as an executive creative director. Early in his career he had a hand in the creation of several attractions that have delighted Disney fans for decades, such as Mickey’s PhilharMagic, Muppet*Vision 3D, and Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin. More recently, he was a major creative force behind some of our most ambitious projects, including Radiator Springs Racers, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and recent expansions at Tokyo Disney Resort. In addition to his boundless creative talents, Rob’t is also well known for his passion to elevate the work of fellow Imagineers and help further their careers. Even following his retirement in 2019, he continues to keep in touch with and inspire many of his friends and colleagues at Imagineering.
     
    Patrick Dempsey is a two-time Golden Globe® nominee and SAG Award® nominee for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series. Early in his career he appeared in 1980s nostalgia films such as Touchstone’s Can’t Buy Me Love (1987) and has since become a Hollywood star with numerous iconic television and film roles. Other Disney credits include an appearance on The Magical World of Disney as Kellin Taylor in A Fighting Choice (1986), the Hollywood Pictures film Run (1991), Touchstone’s Sweet Home Alabama (2002), Brother Bear 2 (2006) as the voice of Kenai, Enchanted (2007), and the upcoming Disney+ film Disenchanted (2022). He is perhaps best known to fans as Dr. Derek Shepherd in ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, a role he portrayed for 11 seasons. Grey’s Anatomy won the 2007 Golden Globe for Best Television Series–Drama as well as the 2007 SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. In addition to acting, Patrick is an avid racing enthusiast, participating in sports car events and produced the film The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019). In 2008, with the intention of giving back to the community where he grew up and where his mother first received cancer treatment, Patrick founded the Dempsey Center to help make life better for people managing the impact of cancer.  
     
    Robert Price “Bob” Foster began his Disney career in 1956, joining the Walt Disney Productions legal department. He later served as a member of the Park Operations Committee for Disneyland and was promoted to Corporate Secretary and Legal Counsel in 1958. Two years later, he was named Assistant Secretary, Walt Disney Productions, and Resident Counsel for Disneyland. In 1963, Walt and Roy O. Disney selected Bob to head the land search for their top-secret “Florida Project.” Bob took extraordinary measures to ensure that the identity of Walt Disney Productions remained classified while initiating and executing the property research and acquisition effort. He acquired 43 square miles of land for what would eventually become the Walt Disney World Resort. Bob was later named Vice President (Legal), Secretary, and General Counsel for the Walt Disney World Co. and in 1970 was promoted to President of the Buena Vista Land Company. In this role, Bob was responsible for overseeing development of the resort community of Lake Buena Vista. In 1974, Bob retired from Walt Disney Productions as Vice President, Real Estate.
     
    Josh Gad is a Tony Award®-winning actor and singer who has warmed the hearts of countless viewers around the globe as Olaf, the loveable snowman from the 2013 box office hit Frozen and its popular follow-up, Frozen 2 (2019). To audiences’ delight, Gad has reprised the role numerous times, each time sharing more of the sun-loving character’s endearing personality and vivacious songs. Olaf has appeared in Frozen Fever (2015), LEGO® Disney Frozen: Northern Lights (2016), Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017), At Home with Olaf (2020), Once Upon a Snowman (2020), and Olaf Presents (2021). Gad’s memorable performances in Frozen and Frozen 2 earned him two Annie Awards for Outstanding Achievement for Voice Acting in an Animated Feature Production. In 2017, Gad starred as LeFou, the memorable and iconic sidekick to Gaston, in the live-action Beauty and the Beast, and in 2020, he portrayed Mulch Diggums in Artemis Fowl. Some of his other notable Disney credits include Mickey’s 90th Spectacular (2018), The Disney Family Singalong (2020), Murder on the Orient Express (2017), Modern Family (2011), and Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom (2020). Gad’s Broadway talent is also showcased as both a creator and star of the Emmy-nominated 20th Television Animation musical series, Central Park (2020–).
     
    Jonathan Groff has made memorable performances in theater, film, and television since his award-winning breakout performance in Broadway’s Spring Awakening (2006). Popular with Disney fans the world over, Jonathan voiced the character of Kristoff in both Frozen (2013) and Frozen 2 (2019)—the top two highest-grossing animated films of all time—as well as in Frozen Fever (2015), LEGO Disney Frozen: Northern Lights (2016), Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017), Once Upon a Snowman (2020), and numerous video games, consumer products, and theme park experiences. He also appeared as Jesse St. James on the Emmy- and Golden Globe-award-winning television series Glee. Additional notable Disney television credits include The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic and Into the Unknown: Making Frozen 2. Groff originated the role of King George III in the Pulitzer Prize-winning production of Hamilton on Broadway, receiving a Tony Award nomination for his performance, and was part of the featured cast immortalized in the Emmy-winning Disney+ Original release of the hit show. Groff also received an individual Emmy nomination for his performance in the filmed production.
     
    Don Hahn joined The Walt Disney Studios in 1976 in the Art Props Morgue. His animation career took off when he worked as an inbetweener on Pete’s Dragon (1977), and later as assistant director on The Fox and the Hound (1981). He was Production Manager of The Black Cauldron (1985) and The Great Mouse Detective (1986), then turned to producing on Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988), Beauty and the Beast (1991), and The Lion King (1994).  His other credits include The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), The Emperor’s New Groove (2000), Maleficent (2014), and the live-action Beauty and the Beast (2017). He executive produced the Disneynature films Earth (2009), Oceans (2010), African Cats (2011), and Chimpanzee (2012). Don is also the author of several Disney Editions books, including The Alchemy of Animation, Before Ever After, and Yesterday’s Tomorrow: Disney’s Magical Mid-Century. As director, Don has helmed such acclaimed documentaries as Waking Sleeping Beauty (2010) and Howard (2020). His most recent Disney credits include hosting the documentary Adventure Thru the Walt Disney Archives (2020). 
     
    Doris Hardoon joined Walt Disney Imagineering in 1979 as a junior designer, then quickly rose through the ranks to lead designer, art director, and producer on a variety of groundbreaking projects around the globe. Included were EPCOT Center, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, as well as Disney Cruise Line and Disney entertainment centers nationwide. She additionally served as executive art director, producer, and creative portfolio lead for projects including Hong Kong Disneyland, the proposed-but-never-built WESTCOT Center in Anaheim, and the unbuilt DisneySea in Long Beach. Doris left the Company in 2000 to pursue other innovative projects but returned in 2009 to help conceive, design, and build Shanghai Disney Resort. In her role as executive director and producer, Doris provided overall creative direction to her design and production teams, while establishing culturally relevant, “authentically Disney, distinctly Chinese” elements in all aspects of her assignments. Doris is the 2022 recipient of the THEA Buzz Price Lifetime of Distinguished Achievements Award.
     
    Idina Menzel is an accomplished actor, singer, songwriter, and philanthropist, who rose to fame on the Broadway stage. Winning a Tony Award in 2004 for her legendary performance as Elphaba in Wicked, she famously went on to voice Queen Elsa in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen (2013) and reprised the role in Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) and Frozen 2 (2019), along with numerous animated shorts, theme park experiences, and consumer products. Idina’s performance of the Oscar- and Grammy®-winning song “Let It Go” became an international phenomenon, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and helped launch Frozen and Frozen 2 on their way to becoming the two highest-grossing animated movies of all time. Idina also appeared as Nancy Tremaine in Enchanted (2007) and is soon to reprise the role in the Disney+ sequel, Disenchanted. As a songwriter, Idina’s original song “Dream Girl” (from 2021’s Cinderella) made it to the Academy Awards’ Best Original Song short list. Some of her notable Disney TV credits include Lisa King in ABC Studios’ Private Practice (2009), Disneyland 60: The Wonderful World of Disney (2015), Mickey’s 90th Spectacular (2018), and The Disney Family Singalong: Volume II (2020), as well as the recurring role of Shelby Corcoran in Glee for 20th Century Television.
     
    Chris Montan joined The Walt Disney Company in 1984, and within three years was named vice president of music for motion pictures and television. In 1997, Variety named him “musical supervisor of the decade” after he oversaw such classic and best-selling film soundtracks as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Pretty Woman, Sister Act, Aladdin, The Lion King, Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Hercules. Chris was named President of Walt Disney Music in 1999 and was responsible for overseeing music for Disney and Pixar animated feature films, Disney Theatrical stage productions, and Disney Parks and Resorts, worldwide. He served as executive music producer for all of the Studios’ animated features during his tenure, working closely in the story development process as well as helping to select musical talent. His work has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, winning Best Original Cast Recording for Aida and Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media for Frozen, with additional films receiving 45 musical Academy Award nominations and 16 Academy Awards in the Best Original Song and Best Original Score categories.
     
    Ellen Pompeo leads the longest-running primetime medical drama in television history, Grey’s Anatomy. As one of television’s most beloved actresses, Ellen’s turn in the title role continues to help elevate the series as ABC’s highest-rated drama and earned the actress a Golden Globe nomination in 2007. Audiences remain glued to screens week after week watching Dr. Meredith Grey and her colleagues face relatable and emotional hardships. In real life, Ellen similarly confronts adversity and works for positive change both on and off the screen. Whether it is encouraging women to pursue their dream careers—medical or otherwise—or advocating for normalizing gender and racial equality in the workplace, the actress has inspired generations. Some of Ellen’s other notable credits include Moonlight Mile (2002), Old School (2003), and Daredevil (2003). Next up, Ellen will star in and executive produce an eight-episode Hulu Original limited series currently titled Untitled Orphan Project through her production banner Calamity Jane, which she launched in 2011.
     
    Tracee Ellis Ross starred in the groundbreaking ABC comedy series black-ish. The Emmy-winning show ran for eight seasons, during which she also served as a producer and director. For her role as Dr. Rainbow “Bow” Johnson, Tracee was nominated five times for an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and won the 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2020 NAACP Image Award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series. In addition, Tracee was honored and acknowledged at the 2016 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood luncheon, receiving the Fierce and Fearless award. Her other Disney television credits include roles on grown-ish and mixed-ish—the latter of which she was both co-creator and executive producer--The Premise, and Private Practice. Tracee is the founder and CEO of PATTERN, a haircare brand that launched in 2019.
     
    Honorees receive a two-foot-tall bronze Disney Legends sculpture that signifies the imagination, creativity, and magic they have brought to the Company. Disney Legends Award recipients will also participate in a handprint ceremony at the end of the event, and their bronzed prints will be displayed in the Disney Legends Plaza at the Company’s Burbank headquarters.
     
    Admission to the ceremony will be on a first-come, first-served basis and is included in the price of a ticket to D23 Expo 2022.
     
    Including this year’s honorees, a total of 304 Disney Legends have been named. Past Disney Legends include Tim Allen, Julie Andrews, Howard Ashman, Robert Downey Jr., Annette Funicello, Whoopi Goldberg, Sir Elton John, Angela Lansbury, George Lucas, Steve Martin, Alan Menken, Hayley Mills, Fess Parker, Robin Roberts, Marty Sklar, Dick Van Dyke, Barbara Walters, Ming-Na Wen, Betty White, and Robin Williams, among many others. Beginning with the inaugural D23 Expo in 2009, thousands of Disney fans have been able to enjoy the Disney Legends Awards ceremony in-person.
     
    D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo Live! For more information, visit list-manage.com .
     
    Schedules and talent are subject to change.
     
    About D23 Expo 2022
    D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping, and more. The event provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, streaming, television, games, theme parks, and celebrities. For the latest D23 Expo 2022 news, visit list-manage.com . Presentations, talent, and schedule subject to change. To join the D23 Expo conversation, be sure to follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23Expo.
     
    About D23
    The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 99-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com, with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.
     
    Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Duo Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.