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    UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT REVEALS STELLAR DETAILS ABOUT ITS TWO NEWEST HOTELS

    UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT REVEALS STELLAR DETAILS ABOUT ITS TWO NEWEST HOTELS, UNIVERSAL STELLA NOVA RESORT AND UNIVERSAL TERRA LUNA RESORT
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    Adding 1,500 Guest Rooms to the Destination’s Hotel Portfolio, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort Invite Guests to Stay Amongst Brilliant Galaxies and Planetary Surroundings

    Guests Can Now Book Reservations and Vacation Packages at Universal Stella Nova Resort, Opening January 21, 2025, and Universal Terra Luna Resort, Opening February 25, 2025
    Orlando, Fla. (April 11, 2024) – Today, Universal Orlando Resort reveals inspiring details about its two newest shining stars, Universal Stella Nova Resort, opening January 21, 2025, and Universal Terra Luna Resort, opening February 25, 2025. Brought to life by the award-winning Universal Creative team and co-owned and operated by Loews Hotels & Co, the alluring hotels place guests in the center of marvelous galaxies and diverse planetary elements for an experience unlike anywhere else in the universe – complete with tranquil sleeping accommodations, entertaining amenities for the whole family to enjoy, various cosmic-inspired dining options and so much more.

    Boasting a combined total of 1,500 luminous, ultramodern and surreal guest rooms, Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort provide even more options for guests to seamlessly experience all the jaw-dropping thrills of a Universal Orlando vacation at an affordable price point starting at $147 (per night, plus tax) based on a stay of four nights or more. Below is an overview of what guests will experience at these radiant hotels.
    OTHERWORLDLY THEMES AND ACCOMMODATIONS

    Universal Stella Nova Resort is a place where guests will take off for amazing adventures at the theme parks and touch down for relaxation and recharging in between the fun. Designed to reflect the infinite vastness of the universe – where galaxies spiral ever outward and unknown worlds revolve around unnamed stars – this hotel is highlighted in serene teals and calming purples to instantly put guests at ease.

    Universal Terra Luna Resort represents another world within Universal Orlando – inviting guests to explore the unknown and step onto planets that have yet to be discovered. Here, guests will find themselves in the midst of an extraordinary landing zone within an awe-inspiring solar system – accented with fresh surroundings and terrestrial greens and golds.

    Both properties offer 750 double-queen guest rooms that comfortably sleep up to four guests and feature spaceship-styled windows – making this the ultimate escape for guests looking to rest amongst stars and planets.
    COSMIC-INSPIRED FOOD & BEVERAGE OUTLETS

    Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort offer a variety of unique dining options for guests looking to have a meal or grab a quick snack in between visits to the parks, including:

    • Cosmos Cafe and Market at Stella Nova Resort and Omega Cafe and Market at Terra Luna Resort – these quick service restaurants feature made-to-order American classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus a selection of grab-and-go items.
    • Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill at Stella Nova Resort and Moonrise Bar and Moonrise Grill at Terra Luna Resort – guests can enjoy burgers, quesadillas and salads at these walk-up service pool bars and grills. Plus, guests 21 and older can purchase cocktails, beer and wine (with a valid photo ID).
    • Nova Bar at Stella Nova Resort and Luna Bar at Terra Luna Resort – each hotel’s lobby bar* will offer specialty cocktails curated with unique ingredients, along with the classics.
    STELLAR AMENITIES

    Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort are so much more than just places to sleep; each hotel offers a variety of incredible amenities for guests to kick back and enjoy dedicated resort days just as much as theme park days, including:

    • Resort-style Pools – each hotel features a nearly 10,000 square foot pool with a relaxing hot tub, comfortable lounge and table-top seating in the pool area, a firepit and more. Plus, the whole family can enjoy the resorts’ recreational activities like poolside movies and outdoor games.
    • Fitness Centers – guests can take advantage of complimentary, state-of-the-art fitness centers featuring a variety of strength and cardio equipment – and, locker rooms with showers available for use on arrival and departure days.
    • Game Rooms – guests of all ages can enjoy a variety of standard arcade and video games in the hotels’ dedicated game rooms.
    • Recreation Rooms – each hotel features approximately 1,000 square-feet of multi-purpose space for small gatherings.
    • Universal Orlando Resort Stores – guests can purchase everything from sundries and necessities to Universal Orlando merchandise to commemorate their vacation.
    EXCLUSIVE THEME PARK BENEFITS
    Staying at any Universal Orlando Resort hotel is the best way to experience all that the destination has to offer with the inclusion of exclusive theme park benefits. Guests staying at Stella Nova Resort or Terra Luna Resort, or any of the other Universal Orlando hotels, can take advantage of Early Park Admission to Universal Volcano Bay and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida or The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure up to one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required), complimentary shuttle bus transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk, resort-wide charging privileges, complimentary merchandise delivery and more.

    Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort are adjacent to Universal Epic Universe and just minutes away from the existing Universal Orlando theme parks. More details about Epic Universe, which will open at a later date in 2025, will be revealed in the months ahead.

    Guests can now book reservations or vacation packages at Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort. To learn more and to book a stellar getaway, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/StellaTerraResorts.

    *Must be 21+ with valid photo ID to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages
    About Universal Orlando Resort
    Universal Orlando Resort is an award-winning theme park destination that welcomes all to truly be themselves while enjoying world-class attractions that redefine theme park experiences. Here, a multitude of authentically thrilling, exciting and spontaneous adventures await – each inviting guests to embark on whatever vacation they crave while igniting their full range of emotions like never before – from the awe of walking the streets of Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the rush of adrenaline that takes over when coming face-to-face with a Velociraptor in Jurassic Park to the wide-eyed joy of seeing an entire slice of cake atop a delectable milkshake at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen.

    The 700-acre resort is home to three exhilarating theme parks – Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay – that boast some of the most innovative and immersive experiences ever created, with a fourth next-level theme park, Universal Epic Universe, on the way. Guests can also relish in exciting dining and entertainment at the Universal CityWalk entertainment complex and enjoy incredible accommodations and magnificent theming across eight hotels that offer something for every style and budget – Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal’s Aventura Hotel and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside and Dockside Inn and Suites.

    Universal Orlando Resort is a part of Universal Destinations & Experiences, a unit of Comcast NBCUniversal.

    About Loews Hotels & Co
    Headquartered in New York City, Loews Hotels & Co is rooted in deep heritage and excellence in service. The hospitality company encompasses branded independent Loews Hotels and a solid mix of partner-brand hotels. Loews Hotels & Co owns and/or operates 25 hotels and resorts across the U.S. and Canada, including eight hotels at Universal Orlando in partnership with Comcast NBC Universal. The newly opened Loews Coral Gables Hotel offers premier hospitality just four blocks from the city’s iconic Miracle Mile. Loews Arlington Hotel and Arlington Convention Center will open in 2024 in the city’s sports and entertainment district. Located in major city centers and resort destinations from coast to coast, the Loews Hotels portfolio features properties grounded in family heritage and dedicated to delivering unscripted guest moments with a handcrafted approach. For reservations or more information about Loews Hotels, call 1-800-23-LOEWS or visit: www.loewshotels.com.
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    ACTOR JONATHAN BENNETT NAMED AS ‘GODFATHER’ TO CARNIVAL FIRENZE

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    Carnival Set to Welcome Second Carnival Fun Italian Ship to Long Beach on April 24
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    MIAMI, April 5, 2024 – Having conquered the big screen (“Mean Girls”), the small screen (“Hallmark Channel”) and Broadway (“Spamalot”), actor Jonathan Bennett is ready to take on his next big role: the godfather of Carnival Cruise Line’s new 135,000 gross ton ship featuring Carnival Fun Italian Style.

    Carnival Cruise Line today named Bennett as the godfather for its next ship, Carnival Firenze, which is inspired by the city of Florence, Italy and is the second Carnival ship to sail with the Carnival Fun Italian Style theme. Carnival President Christine Duffy surprised Bennett with the news captured in this video. To make it even easier for Bennett to sail, the ship will be homeported in his backyard in Long Beach, Calif., where it will be christened on April 24 and embark on its first sailing on April 25. 

    “Jonathan is a true brand ambassador for Carnival.  He cruises with us, honeymooned with us and tells his friends and family to vacation with Carnival.  He is friendly and welcoming to everyone and embodies the Carnival style of fun.  After he sailed on the first voyage of Carnival Firenze’s sister ship Carnival Venezia last May, he told me it would be his dream to be the godfather of one of our ships, so how could I turn down such a request for such a terrific friend to Carnival,” said Duffy.  “While he’s not Italian, he is proof positive that anyone can have Italian Style fun when you sail on our Italian-themed ships, and we are thrilled to have him help us welcome our newest addition to the Carnival fleet.”

    Following his first professional acting role on the soap opera “All My Children,” Bennett appeared in a number of television series before his breakout role as Aaron Samuels in the hit movie “Mean Girls.”  He has gone on to star in multiple feature films, Hallmark Channel movies and hosted programs for the Food Network. He’s also the host for the New York Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration where Carnival has sponsored the ball drop for the past three years.  He is currently completing his first Broadway appearance in the hit revival of the musical, “Spamalot.”

    “This is an amazing honor and I’m so proud to know that I’ll always be a part of the Carnival Firenze family,” said Bennett. “When I told Christine that I’d love to be a Carnival cruise ship godfather, I never thought she’d take my request seriously. I have so much respect for the Carnival team and how they’re dedicated to taking care of their guests, the ocean and each other. When I say Carnival is a great company and a great way to vacation, I mean it! I’m so excited to not only be the ship’s godfather, but to also get to cruise on Carnival Firenze as a guest now that Carnival fun Italian style is coming to the west coast.”

    Bennett will join Duffy at the Carnival Firenze naming celebration on Wednesday, April 24 in Long Beach. The ceremony will be livestreamed on Carnival’s Facebook page.

    Carnival Fun Italian Style combines Italian theming with Carnival’s signature fun. Built in 2020, Carnival Firenze accommodates more than 5,000 guests and will sail year-round from Long Beach, offering three- to seven-day Baja Mexico and Mexican Riviera cruises. To see all Carnival Firenze sailings currently open for sail, click here.

    For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

    ABOUT CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
    Carnival Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is the first cruise line to sail over 100 million guests and is proud to be known as America's Cruise Line, for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other. Since its founding in 1972, Carnival has continually revolutionized the cruise industry and popularized the cruise vacation as an affordable and fun travel option. Carnival operates from 14 U.S. and two Australian homeports as well as seasonally from Europe and employs more than 48,000 team members representing 120 nationalities. Carnival’s fleet of 27 ships reflects an exciting, continued period of growth with two new additional Excel-class ships scheduled to be delivered in 2027 and 2028. Carnival’s next new guest offering will be the all-new exclusive destination, Celebration Key, set to debut on Grand Bahama in summer 2025.
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    Six Flags Over Georgia Recognizes World Autism Month with Low Sensory Sundays

    In recognition of World Autism Month, Six Flags Over Georgia is hosting Low Sensory Sundays every Sunday in April.
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    During Low Sensory Sundays, guests will enjoy a relaxing and less stimulating environment, with reduced park sound and additional quiet break areas at the Bugs Bunny BoomTown Stage and the Lickskillet Pavilion located near Pandemonium.
     
    The park will also debut an updated Low Sensory Zone in a new location near Guest Services. The Low Sensory Zone will be open throughout the season and is a dedicated space designed to provide guests with sensory sensitives the opportunity to take a break from the stimulating theme park environment. The space will gradually come to life throughout the spring. From gentle lighting to soothing sounds, every element has been carefully curated to create a calming and inclusive experience for all sensory needs.
     
    The first Low Sensory Sunday kicks off this weekend, April 7, and will occur every following Sunday through April 28. For more details, visit sixflags.com/overgeorgia.
    The Spring Break Pass Sale Ends Soon
    Six Flags Over Georgia is now open daily through April 7 for Spring Break. During Spring Break, guests can get a free Diamond upgrade with the purchase of a Platinum Pass. With a Diamond Pass, guests can Go All Out with visits to all Six Flags parks and water parks, preferred Speedy Parking, food and merchandise discounts and more! For more information and to purchase a Season Pass, visit sixflags.com/overgeorgia.
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    SeaWorld Orlando Unveils Inaugural Seven Seas Food Festival 5K Fun Run as Part of 60th Anniversary Celebration

    SeaWorld Orlando is thrilled to announce the debut of the Inaugural Seven Seas Food Festival 5K Fun Run, set amidst the backdrop of its 60th Anniversary Celebration. Participants of all ages are invited to run, skip, jog, or stroll through the scenic pathways of SeaWorld Orlando, surrounded by the park's picturesque ambiance and stunning wildlife. The Fun Run will wind its way through iconic attractions, including Sesame Street Land, Orca Stadium, Infinity Falls, Mako coaster, Shark Plaza, Dolphin Stadium, Key West, and Wild Arctic, offering an unforgettable journey for all
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    For younger participants, there's an exciting Kids Run designed for children ages 7 and under, ensuring fun for the whole family. Along the route, participants will encounter fantastic photo opportunities and special surprises, making this event a memorable experience for everyone involved.
     
    But the excitement doesn’t end at the finish line! Following the race, participants and guests can indulge in a special end-of-race Seven Seas celebration exclusive to racers and a limited number of spectators. Plus, with a special day-of ticket offer, you can extend the fun and explore all that SeaWorld Orlando has to offer.
     
    As an added bonus, the first 200 registered participants will receive a complimentary Seven Seas Food Festival 5-punch Food & Beverage lanyard, valid during event days through May 19. It’s the perfect way to fuel up after your run and experience the culinary delights of the festival.
     
    For those with a competitive spirit, awards will be presented to the top 3 overall Male and Female finishers of the SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival 5K Run. Additionally, there will be a clock at the finish line for all participants to view their finish times.
     
    Join as SeaWorld celebrates six decades of unforgettable experiences and embarks on a new era of adventure at SeaWorld Orlando. For registration and more information, please visit https://seaworld.com/orlando/events/seaworlds-seven-seas-run/ .
    WHEN: Saturday, May 4, 2024
     
    WHERE: SeaWorld Orlando
     
    ABOUT:           SeaWorld is a leading marine life theme park and accredited zoo and aquarium that provides experiences that matter while educating and inspiring guests of all ages to care about marine life. Welcoming millions of guests every year, the parks offer fun and enriching experiences from up-close animal encounters and year-round educational programs to award-winning marine-life-themed rides and attractions, special events, and exciting entertainment. For more than 60 years SeaWorld has advanced the conservation of marine life in and outside its parks through science, education, and exceptional animal care that is Humane Certified by American Humane and accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. SeaWorld is one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world, helping more than 41,000 animals to date.  The SeaWorld Conservation Fund, a non-profit foundation established in 2003, has provided more than $20 million to nearly 1,400 organizations to advance critical research on every continent.  A portion of park proceeds goes toward supporting these longstanding conservation commitments. SeaWorld parks are in Orlando, San Antonio, San Diego, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE).  SeaWorld is part of the United Parks & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:PRKS) portfolio of theme park brands. For more information, visit us at SeaWorld.com. 
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    Universal Studios Hollywood Reissues Iconic Glamor Trams as World-Renowned Studio Tour Celebrates a Milestone 60 Years

    Since 1964…60 Years of Behind-the-Scenes Magic
     
    Universal Studios Hollywood Reissues Iconic Glamor Trams as World-Renowned Studio Tour Celebrates a Milestone 60 Years with New and Nostalgic Enhancements, Including a Unique Step Off Tram and Onto a Movie Set Moment, a Reimagined Earthquake Attraction, Return of the Runaway Train and
    a Colossal Jurassic World T. rex Dinosaur Encounter from April 26 through August 11
     
    The Installation of the First-Ever Authorized Hollywood Sign Replica and Retro-Themed Food and Merchandise Help Commemorate this Momentous Anniversary Program
    Universal City, California, April 2, 2024 – Universal Studios Hollywood invites guests to take a nostalgic walk down memory lane as the destination celebrates the Studio Tour’s 60th milestone anniversary with a dedicated experiential program from April 26 through August 11, 2024.

                In 1964, Universal City Studios invited tourists to take a whirlwind adventure for a first-hand look at Hollywood moviemaking in action. Five times a day, for approximately just over two hours, Monday through Friday, iconic red and white Glamor Trams, with their ruffled awnings, would whisk eager tourists through its studio backlot to be a fly on the wall in the making of Universal movie and television productions.

                Over the span of 60 years, Universal Studios Hollywood has cultivated the Studio Tour into a dynamic world-renowned experience visited by over 200 million guests worldwide. As part of the origins of Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Destinations & Experiences’ (UDX) global theme parks portfolio, the Studio Tour is stepping into the spotlight and inviting guests along for the ride as part of this notable celebration.
    “The Studio Tour paved the way for the development of Universal Studios Hollywood and celebrating its 60-year milestone pays homage to its indelible impact,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood. “The Studio Tour is a crown jewel in our theme park portfolio and a beloved attraction for millions of guests. We are thrilled and honored to share our enthusiasm for its historic relevance with guests both new to the experience as well as those who have journeyed with us along the way.”
                In addition to the return of several iconic red and white candy-striped Glamor Trams, the centerpiece of the Studio Tour 60th anniversary celebration will treat guests to the unique opportunity to step off the tram and onto a legendary movie set where an original, fully restored 1964 vintage Glamor Tram awaits. The area will provide additional memorable photo opportunities and social media posts, including a giant King Kong backdrop and the theme park’s original hanging Jaws shark.

                A highlight of the 60th celebration also includes the “Earthquake—The Big One” attraction, which debuted on the Studio Tour in 1989 and has been shaking things up ever since with its eerily realistic 8.3 magnitude quake. To coincide with this diamond anniversary, this simulated natural disaster attraction has undergone a top to bottom renovation and will debut anew with contemporary technology and aesthetics.

                Other exciting features will include a visit to Courthouse Square aboard the Studio Tour, where scenes from the blockbuster Back to the Future movies were filmed and where an original time machine picture car will sit prominently on display, not far from a nearby Doc Brown character.
     As the Studio Tour navigates around the historic backlot, additional surprises from a time long gone will make a cameo appearance, including the temporary return of the 1976 Runaway Train as warning bells and sirens alarm from its stationary location. Moments of nostalgia will also be featured aboard the tram’s monitors showing clips of former Studio Tour attractions as they once appeared on the tour.

                Universal Studios Hollywood will also be digging into its archive of prehistoric props with a behemoth dimensional Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur display used in the promotion of Universal Pictures’ Jurassic World movie. This giant, growling creature, bearing a large bite of sharp teeth, will be located adjacent to a locked paddock of wild dinosaurs that can be heard screeching and clamoring to escape.

    To commemorate the spirt of Hollywood’s glamorous past, Universal Studios Hollywood is partnering with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, responsible for promoting and enhancing the business, cultural and civic well-being of Hollywood, and the Hollywood Sign Trust, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, responsible for maintaining the Hollywood Sign and educating the world about its historical and cultural importance. 
    Originally installed as a giant billboard for a real estate development (Hollywoodland) in 1923, today, the Hollywood Sign is a universal metaphor for the place, industry, lifestyle and aspiration known as Hollywood. It stands as one of the world's best-known monuments and was declared Los Angeles Cultural Historical Monument No. 111 in 1973.

    “The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is thrilled that this incredible opportunity will enable guests to step off the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood and enjoy an up close look at a perfectly scaled replica of the Hollywood Sign,” said Steve Nissen, CEO and President of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. “It has been a dream of millions to be able to climb the hillside to the actual sign atop Mt. Lee, so this collaboration with Universal Studios Hollywood is the ideal way to inspire guests around the world to dream big.”

    "We are thrilled to share in this 60-year milestone with Universal Studios Hollywood and its behind-the scenes magic, which definitely strikes a chord with the hopes and dreams the Hollywood Sign brings to its fans, " said Jeff Zarrinnam, Chair of the Hollywood Sign Trust. "And for people to have this vibrant way to experience the Sign, including capturing selfies and photos, with such an iconic leader in the industry is a true celebration. We congratulate Universal on this big anniversary."

    As a result of this collaboration and in celebration of both the Hollywood Sign’s centennial and the Studio Tour’s 60th anniversary, Universal Studios Hollywood is debuting the first-ever original replica of the Sign to be situated along the studio backlot, adjacent to the tram step off moment. This large scale reproduction was meticulously crafted from the Sign’s historic records to faithfully recreate this iconic landmark and bring it to visiting Studio Tour guests, where it will be nestled for several years along the hillside. The original Hollywood Sign towers at 45 feet; this official replica will stand tall at 10 feet to complement the landscape.

    Guests disembarking the tram to experience the original movie set on the studio backlot will now have the unique and exclusive opportunity to pose for the first time ever in close proximity to this officially sanctioned Hollywood Sign replica for interactive social media posts.
    The Studio Tour is a world class attraction that takes guests onto an authentic movie and television production lot, past state-of-the-art soundstages, through hyper-realistic outdoor sets and even past the studio’s corporate offices where, behind closed doors, exciting deals are being made. As guests queue up to board the Studio Tour and experience the magic and mystery of the studio backlot, they will be met with archival images and videos detailing its incredible history, along with an all-original augmented reality (AR) Studio Tour trivia challenge designed to test their knowledge of this iconic attraction through the years with the ability to share their results on social media.

    While much has transpired in six decades, the Studio Tour has remained true to its roots of immersing guests in the awe-inspiring world of movie-making magic, providing remarkable access to production sets on a genuine studio backlot. The once celebrated two-hour Glamor Trams have been replaced with a contemporary, approximate 60-minute experience, infused with advanced technology that enlightens and entertains millions of film buffs, theme park fans and tourists alike visiting from across the globe.

    With its sights on the future, the Studio Tour is in the midst of converting its fleet of 21 diesel-hydraulic engines to electric trams to help reduce carbon emissions and improve the guest experience by reducing noise associated with the diesel-hydraulic engine.

    From ushering guests past iconic sets, including the renowned film Psycho directed by Alfred Hitchcock—one of the very first film sets accessible for visitors to see up close in 1964—to the evolution of Universal Studios Hollywood, immersing guests in innovative, groundbreaking rides and attractions themed to compelling film and television properties, the Studio Tour was “act one” in the development of the notable Universal Destinations & Experiences portfolio of global theme parks.
    Rounding out the entire Studio Tour 60th anniversary celebration will be a selection of specially created, highly themed food and beverages, curated by the theme park’s Executive Chef Julia Thrash, along with themed merchandise and memorabilia.

    A special Dining Pass celebrating the 60th anniversary will be available for purchase and will allow guests to choose six eligible menu items: a choice of two entrees, plus a choice of four snacks, sides, desserts or beverages at participating restaurants or food carts. Select in-park venues and food carts are excluded, and the Dining Pass is valid only on the day of purchase.

    Guests basking in a day of nostalgia can step back in time and enjoy retro style entrees, sweets and drinks. A sampling of items at select locations will include:

                Hollywood & Dine, located on the Upper Lot of the theme park, will serve up BBQ Brisket Sandwich, BBQ Cheeseburger, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Summer Strawberry Salad, BBQ Corn Dog and Film Reel Cookie Sandwich.

    Mel’s Diner, also located on the Upper Lot, will feature such favorites as Mel’s Classic Burger, Beyond Meat® BBQ Cheeseburger, Chili Cheese Dog, Tuna Melt, Chicken Caeser Salad, as well as two entrees that harken back to iconic mid-century TV dinner style platters: the Meatloaf Combo and Fried Chicken Combo.

    Studio Scoops ice-cream parlor on the Lower Lot will whip up tasty treats in honor of the theme park’s signature attractions.

    And lastly, the City Snack Shop standalone outdoor food cart, located on the Upper Lot, will be transformed into a Glamor Tram and serve up a selection of treats emblematic of the 60-year celebration, including the Glam Tram Cookie, Film Reel Cookie Sandwich, Giant 60th Pretzel, 60th Celebration Cookies and Banana Breath Popcorn.

    An all-new dedicated Studio Tour 60th anniversary merchandise collection will invite guests to take home a piece of this historical celebration with such unique products as a 60th anniversary popcorn bucket shaped as an iconic Glamor Tram, plus an array of retro-themed souvenirs, including a Glamor Tram themed pillow, blanket, backpack, jacket, tops, tee shirts, hats, mugs, keychains, salt and pepper shakers, chocolates and candies.

    More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter).
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    A WORLD OF TASTE AWAITS AT THE ANNUAL BUSCH GARDENS FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

    Become a Pass Member to enjoy exclusive benefits at the Food & Wine Festival and Concert Series through May 19, 2024
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    Embark on a tantalizing world of taste as Busch Gardens Tampa Bay kicks off its annual Food & Wine Festival. Promising a delectable fusion of culinary delights and thrilling entertainment, the festival is set to captivate guests Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays  through May 19.

    Guests can journey through ten countries as the festival offers an array of mouthwatering dishes and dynamic drink pairings by Executive Park Chef Matt Maslowski and TJ Peck, Director of Food and Beverage. From savory treats to sweet indulgences, visitors can sip, savor, and discover their new favorite brew or cocktail while enjoying the diverse concert lineup featuring acts for all tastes.

    “It gives me great pleasure to extend a warm invitation to all of you for our annual Food & Wine Festival. This year, our goal is to celebrate the rich tapestry of global cuisine and take you on an unparalleled culinary journey, highlighting flavors from around the world. Our meticulously crafted menu features an array of dishes that will surely delight your taste buds,” said Executive Park Chef Matt Maslowski. “From the tender Beef Chimichurri of Argentina to the fresh Ceviche of Chile, each dish has been reinvented or carefully curated to showcase the authentic flavors of its origin. Indulge in the creamy Mango Flan of Argentina or the decadent Dulce De Leche Cake of Chile for a sweet conclusion to your culinary adventure. And don’t forget to pair with our selection of fine wines, carefully chosen to complement each dish. Come hungry!”
    Sample Offerings from around the world: South Africa, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Spain, France, Italy, and USA  Indulge in global flavors and prepare your palate for a culinary journey. From the vibrant streets of South Africa to the picturesque vineyards of New Zealand, the festival promises an unforgettable fusion of flavors. Come try the Bobotie from South Africa, ground beef infused with flavors of turmeric and curry, with a touch of sweetness from raisins and apricots, finished with a custard and baked to perfection. Another new temptation originating from Durban, South Africa, Bunny Chow, a hearty curry stew with Indian spices, served in a hollowed-out bread bowl.  Pair either with a Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz or Mulderbosch ‘Faithful Hound’ Red Blend. Or escape to Spain to sample the ‘reinvented’ pork and meatball Albondigas, roasted and simmered in a spicy tomato sauce enhanced with chipotle peppers, or the Chicken Saffron Rice, a returning favorite. Pair with the Marques de Caceres Rioja Crianza or Raventos Blanc de Blancs Brut. There is something to tempt your taste at every stop. Other sure-to-be favorites:
    Australia
    • REINVENTED Watermelon Salad  Inspired from the Chinchilla Melon festival in Queensland, a salad composed of sweet watermelon, Shiraz vinaigrette and arugula topped with pickled onions
    • Green Curry Chicken Pie  Aussie favorite Asian pot pie with ginger, bamboo shoots, chicken, green curry and basil aromatics served in a flaky pastry shell
    • Pair with:  Penfold Max Chardonnay, Barossa Valley or Greg Norman Shiraz, Limestone Coast
    France
    • Cassoulet  Slow cooked white beans, vegetables and cured bacon, finished with fresh herbs. Derived its name from the cooking pot it is prepared in
    • Ratatouille  Vegan French Provencal dish of stewed peppers, onions, eggplant, zucchini, squash, garlic and tomatoes
    • Pair with:  Chateau La Tuilerie Du Puy Bordeaux, Bordeaux or Guigal Cotes du Rhone Rouge, Rhone Valley
    Italy
    • Puttanesca Fusilli  Traditional vegan Naples dish with kalamata olives, capers and tomato simmered with herbs, served over spiral pasta
    • Chicken Marsala  Pan-seared chicken and sautéed mushrooms, deglazed with Marsala wine, served on a bed of braised spinach and onions
    • Pair with: Borgo Scopeto Chianti Classico, Toscana or Banfi 'Principessa' Gavi, Cortese Di Gavi, Piemonte

    Click here  for our full food and drink menu for each country.
    Food & Wine Festival Guided Tour: Elevate your experience with a VIP Tour Guide who will escort you through the Bird Gardens and Festival area, offering samples of a variety of delectable delights and delicious drinks. Skip the lines on select coasters and enjoy VIP concert seating. Click here to learn more.

    In addition to the culinary feast, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay features free concerts each Saturday and Sunday night, free with park admission. To purchase reserved seating, VIP packages, and sampler lanyards, guests can visit Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival.

    For the full concert lineup with performance dates, click here.

    The best way to enjoy all the 2024 Food and Wine Festival and Concert Series offerings is by becoming a Pass Holder. To learn more about the benefits and current promotions, visit https://buschgardens.com/tampa/annual-pass/benefits.
    Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival
    Extends Event to Include Fridays
     
    Spring Spectacular Sale Offers up to 50% off on Tickets, Fun Cards and Annual Passes
    Due to its popularity, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Food & Wine Festival is expanding the event to include Fridays. Now, guests have an extra day each weekend to enjoy delicious food, inspired drinks and cocktails, and electrifying performances.

    This weekend, there will be three headlining artists taking the stage. All concerts are included with park admission.

    This weekend's lineup features:
    • Brady Lee Band, March 29th at 3, 4:30 and 6pm at the Coca-Cola Canopy Stage
      • Independent country music artist promoting his new single “When It Hurts”
    • The Outlaws, March 30th at 7pm at the Festival Field stage, located past the cabins on the Festival Pathway
      • One of the best Southern rock bands with hits like “There Goes Another Love Song” and “Green Grass and High Tides”
    • Mark Wills, March 31st at 6pm, at the Festival Field stage, located past the cabins on the Festival Pathway
      • Platinum-selling country artist with hits like “Wish You Were Here” and “19 Somethin”

    For showtimes and to purchase reserved seating, VIP packages, and Food & Wine sampler lanyards, guests can visit BuschGardensTampa.com. For the full concert lineup with performance dates, click here.
     Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, offering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA accredited zoo with thousands of animals representing more than 200 species, and exciting seasonal 8events all year providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age. For more information, visit BuschGardensTampa.com. Busch Gardens is owned by United Parks & Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: PRKS), a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.