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Universal’s Epic Universe Nears Opening as UK Park Expansion Plans Advance

Universal’s $7 billion Orlando park is set to debut on May 22, 2025, while negotiations progress for a major theme park project in Bedford, England.

Celestial Park is the central hub of Epic Universe.
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In the Ministry of Magic, guests see Dolores Umbridge’s former office and meet Higgledy the house-elf.

Overview

  • Epic Universe, featuring immersive lands like Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic, and How to Train Your Dragon, is generating significant pre-launch excitement ahead of its May 22 opening.
  • The park introduces groundbreaking ride technology and interactive experiences, including Power-Bands for Super Nintendo World and next-generation wands for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
  • Universal has announced Annual Passholder previews starting April 17, with overwhelming demand causing virtual queue crashes and high ticket sales.
  • Reports indicate Universal is close to finalizing a deal to build Europe’s largest theme park in Bedford, England, potentially surpassing Disneyland Paris in scale.
  • The combined expansion efforts are expected to drive substantial economic impact, creating tens of thousands of jobs and boosting tax revenue in both the U.S. and UK.