Jurassic World and Shrek Attractions at Texas Universal Kids Resort

In a significant development, Universal Studios is set to launch a kid-friendly theme park in Texas, boasting major appeal from beloved animated franchises such as Shrek, Jurassic World, and SpongeBob. This exciting announcement comes on the heels of Universal revealing more details about its year-round haunt in Las Vegas, signaling the start of an intense competition with Disney in the theme park sector. Families can look forward to a magical destination that promises to captivate both children and adults alike.

This weekend, pop culture enthusiasts eager to contribute to rebuilding efforts after the Los Angeles fires can attend MultiCon, an event that has gathered stars from various TV shows and films, along with top geek commentators, to celebrate all things genre. Attendees can look forward to engaging panels and a silent auction that promises unique collectibles, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting LA fire relief efforts.

From sneak peeks of art at Disney California Adventure’s Food and Wine Festival to a 24-hour marathon of Best Picture nominees at AMC theaters, and celebrations commemorating Cinderella and Tom and Jerry on their respective anniversaries, discover the latest in fandom travel and lifestyle at theme parks and beyond!

Exciting Launch of Universal Kids Resort in Texas

Universal Destinations is making a groundbreaking move by expanding beyond its renowned theme park hubs in Orlando and Los Angeles, bringing thrilling new experiences to other major cities across the United States. Earlier this week, the company unveiled plans for Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, and now families in the Midwest and beyond can eagerly anticipate the grand opening of the Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, scheduled for 2026. This innovative theme park will highlight lands inspired by DreamWorks properties, including Shrek and Puss in Boots, offering adventurous fun in the Kingdom of Far Far Away, featuring the new character Perrito from The Last Wish. Guests will also embark on a whimsical journey to Bikini Bottom with Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants, dive into a vibrant Trolls world, and revel in additional mayhem with Illumination’s Despicable Me franchise. Moreover, visitors can enjoy thrilling adventures inspired by Jurassic World without the fear of real dinosaurs, featuring a land based on the fan-favorite Netflix series, Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous. We are hopeful for an animatronic meet and greet with the beloved character Bumpy. Plan your visit and book tickets here.

MultiCon Los Angeles: A Celebration of Pop Culture

Residents of Los Angeles are well aware that the past few weeks have been particularly challenging due to the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires. In response, LA-based talent has come together to support affected communities through a vibrant celebration of pop culture at this weekend’s MultiCon. The event will feature an array of panels designed to spread joy among fandom enthusiasts. Tickets to the event, along with proceeds from the silent auction, will be directed towards LA Relief via the United Way of Greater Los Angeles. Here’s a glimpse of the exciting programming scheduled for this Saturday, February 22:

Stories of The Walking Dead (11:00 – 11:45 a.m.)
Moderator: Benjamin Watts
Panelists: Scott Gimple (Walking Dead showrunner), Khary Payton (Walking Dead), Michael Cudlitz (Walking Dead, Superman and Lois)

Wonder Women (11:55 AM – 12:40 p.m.)
Moderator: Perri Nemiroff (Collider)
Panelists: Jackie Tohn (Glow, Nobody Wants This), Bitsie Tulloch (Superman and Lois)

Kings of Comics (12:50 – 1:35 p.m.)
Moderator: Coy Jandreau (DC Studios Showcase, Coycast)
Panelists: Rob Liefeld (Deadpool creator, Image Comics founder), Kevin Smith (Clerks, Jay and Silent Bob), Robert Kirkman (Invincible, The Walking Dead)

Galaxy of Good (1:45 – 2:30 p.m.)
Moderator: Michael Tessler (Reel Rejects, Multihouse CEO)
Panelists: Sean Gunn (Guardians of the Galaxy), Daniel Logan (Star Wars), Vivien Lyra Blair (Obi-Wan Kenobi)

Animation Nation (3:35 – 4:20 p.m.)
Moderator: Juju Green aka Straw Hat Goofy (TikTok’s Movie Guy)
Panelists: Seth Green (Robot Chicken, Family Guy), Tara Platt (Spider-Man Video Games, Fire Emblem), Yuri Lowenthal (Spider-Man, Naruto), Isaac Robinson-Smith (X-Men ’97)

And more! Secure your tickets here.

Experience AMC Theaters’ Exclusive 24-Hour Best Picture Showcase Marathon

The traditional two-day marathon of Best Picture nominees will still be available for viewing at AMC theaters. However, the introduction of a 24-hour marathon featuring back-to-back screenings of Best Picture nominees is a thrilling new offering that pushes the boundaries of cinematic experience. Grab your tickets for this overnight marathon, which kicks off at 12 p.m. on March 1. The schedule is as follows:

The Brutalist – 12:00 p.m.
Nickel Boys – 4:05 p.m.
A Complete Unknown – 7:10 p.m.
Anora – 9:40 p.m.
The Substance – 12:10 a.m.
Conclave – 2:40 a.m.
Dune: Part Two – 4:50 a.m.
I’m Still Here – 7:45 a.m.
Wicked – 10:10 a.m.

It’s a delightful surprise to see The Substance slotted for the midnight movie screening—what a clever choice! While I might have preferred a swap between Conclave and A Complete Unknown, featuring Wicked as the closing film is quite the challenge given its lengthy runtime. If you’re up for the adventure, tickets are available here.

Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival 2025: A Culinary Celebration

Exciting news for fans of culinary delights! The highly anticipated Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival is set to commence on Friday, February 28. Guests can look forward to the debut of fandom prints introduced at Epcot’s Festival of the Arts, along with appearances by talented artists such as June Kim, Jerrod Maruyama, Ashley Taylor, and Ryan Riller throughout the festival for signings. Make sure to check for more information on scheduled appearances here.

Meet Captain America at Avengers Campus: A Heroic Encounter

Marvel fans will be thrilled to discover that Sam Wilson has made his heroic entrance, donning his new Captain America suit at Avengers Campus within Disney California Adventure. While there have been no sightings of the Red Hulk just yet, guests can expect thrilling interactions with Captain America himself.

Explore the Pixar Up Themed Room on Disney Treasure

Take an enchanting tour of the Pixar Up themed room aboard the Disney Cruise Line’s Treasure. This unique experience allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the whimsical world of Up and enjoy all the captivating details and designs inspired by the beloved film. Don’t miss your chance to book an unforgettable trip here.

Adopt a Portal-Jumping Pet at Meow Wolf: A Unique Adoption Experience

If you find yourself near Meow Wolf Grapevine, don’t miss the special one-day interdimensional pet adoption event happening this Saturday, February 22. “Meow Wolf is no stranger to the unexplained, but a sudden appearance of adoptable dogs in our mystery center might just be the most delightful twist yet,” shared Connor Gray, PR manager at Meow Wolf Grapevine. “These pups are looking for their next adventure, and we hope guests will answer that call.”

Families can expand their furry family (as long as an adult aged 18 or older is present) at the on-site adoption experience inside the Matt King Mystery Center. Admission to this unique event is free and will run from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., providing guests the opportunity to meet a wonderful group of adoptable dogs. To adopt, prospective pet owners will need to complete a short questionnaire and provide a valid ID and credit card. Adoption fees are set at $75 per dog, as per Grapevine Animal Services, which also welcomes support for their pet rescue efforts, even if you’re not adopting. For further details, visit meowwolf.com/visit/grapevine.

Discover Adam West’s Retro Futurism: A Batman Tribute in Palm Springs

During Palm Springs’ Modernism week, the former residence of original Batman actor Adam West has been artfully transformed into a mid-century Gotham-inspired retreat by Michelle Boudreau Design. Check out the accompanying gallery for a glimpse into Batman’s Hideaway. The designer has also recently renovated Elvis’ honeymoon home in Palm Springs, turning it into the retro-futuristic House of Tomorrow it was originally envisioned to be. The transformation evokes strong Fantastic Four vibes, reminiscent of Marvel Studios’ upcoming feature film.

Stylish Parks Crocs Collaboration with Monsters Inc.

As someone who has embraced Crocs for their convenience at theme parks, especially when navigating water rides or braving sudden torrential downpours in Orlando, I am particularly excited about this bold collaboration with Pixar’s Monsters Inc.. The Mike Wazowski design is perfect for a fun day at the parks, while the Sully slippers promise to provide ultimate comfort for relaxing back at the hotel after a long day of exploration.

Celebrate 75 Years of Magic with Cinderella Loungefly Collection

Enhance your theme park and travel Loungefly collection with this enchanting homage to the 75 years of magic that Cinderella has brought to audiences. Two of the mini-backpacks highlight the brand’s cosplay style, perfect for Disney bounding at the parks while showcasing Cinderella’s iconic looks.

Transform Your Devices with Cinderella 75 x Casetify Collection

Casetify has introduced a delightful tech accessory collaboration with Disney, honoring Cinderella in celebration of the classic animated film. This collection is sure to bring a fairy godmother-style makeover to your devices, infusing them with enchanting Disney princess aesthetics. Don’t miss out on this magical drop available here.

Indulge in the New Disney Princess Collection at Bath & Body Works

The newly launched Disney Princess collection at Bath & Body Works features an exquisite range of scents inspired by our favorite fairytale heroines. This collection includes the retailer’s signature candles and body care lotions, perfect for fans seeking to bring a touch of Disney magic into their daily routines. Travelers will be delighted to know that the collection also offers TSA-approved sizes for easy packing and travel convenience.

Celebrate Mischief with Tom and Jerry Tech Accessories from Casetify

Channel your inner cartoon character with tech accessories inspired by Tom and Jerry, commemorating the classic cartoon’s 85th anniversary through a playful collaboration with Casetify. These accessories are designed for fans who want to celebrate the timeless mischief and charm of the iconic duo.

Step into Style with Tom and Jerry x Converse Collaboration

Showcase your love for classic animation with Tom and Jerry‘s 85th anniversary collaboration with Converse. This stylish footwear collection is perfect for fans looking to make a statement while celebrating the beloved antics of the iconic cartoon duo.

Engage in Epic Adventures with The Hobbit Virtual Challenges

Bring the magic of Middle-earth to your local neighborhood or wherever you choose to run with the immersive The Hobbit series of digital realm marathons by Conqueror virtual challenges. Participants can sign up to embark on these exciting virtual challenges and earn real Lord of the Rings-themed medals as a reward for their accomplishments. Join the adventure here for a unique experience that combines fitness with fandom.

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.