Universal Studios Florida Confirms Five Major Additions as Retro Franchises Return
Nostalgia-led events with visible coaster construction aim to reassure guests about the resort’s investment in more immersive experiences.
Overview
- Universal confirmed on Saturday that it has locked in five major additions for 2026, a program outlets describe as mixing retro revivals with new content across the park.
- The longtime Horror Makeup Show closed on May 12, 2026, and Universal says a reimagined version is expected to return in winter 2026.
- Halloween Horror Nights will feature the return of Jack the Clown and Dr. Oddfellow as headliners and will include a new haunted house based on the horror property Sinners.
- Jaws is the centerpiece of Universal’s Blockbuster Summer event, running May 23 through Aug. 10, with themed merchandise, food, entertainment and photo opportunities throughout the park.
- Construction for Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is visibly progressing and remains scheduled to open in 2027, a sign the resort is pairing fan-facing programming with large-scale, practical ride investment as it competes with Epic Universe and responds to guest demand for more immersive experiences.