Jeff 
Theme Park Spot Talk: Week of 7/11/2025
Summer Thrills, Fall Chills, and a Holiday Tease Ahead
Water parks, amusement parks, and attractions around the world are running at full speed—and it’s an exciting time to be a fan. While summer is sizzling, our eyes are also on what’s creeping around the corner with Halloween and Holiday announcements starting to roll in. Let’s dive into this week’s top 5 headlines!
Latest News
1
Wild Oasis Opening to Pass Members at
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Photo Courtesy of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
The long-awaited Wild Oasis water play area officially opens this weekend for Pass Members at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This new kid-friendly addition near the Serengeti Flyer features splash zones, shaded seating, and a relaxing family vibe—just in time to beat the Florida summer heat. A full public opening is expected in the coming days.
2
It’s a Small World... Final Verse Confirmed
Photo Courtesy of Disney
After years of fan speculation, Disney has confirmed the “last lyrics” sung on It’s a Small World. The final refrain, “There’s so much that we share, that it’s time we’re aware, it’s a small world after all,” has been declared the official closing line in all versions worldwide. This small detail honors the ride’s legacy and emotional message of global unity.
3
Terrifier Coming to Universal Studios HHN
Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios
Art the Clown is coming to life at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights. Universal Studios Orlando and Hollywood are both set to debut a brand-new haunted house based on the Terrifier slasher film franchise. Known for its intense gore and psychological horror, this house is expected to be one of the most terrifying experiences at HHN 2025.
4
Holidays at Walt Disney World Announced
Photo Courtesy of Disney
Disney has announced its full holiday plans for 2025 across all four theme parks. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights will return with new enhancements, while EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays will again bring seasonal food and culture from around the world. Disney Springs will also transform into a festive wonderland starting in early November.
5
New House and Interactive Bar Return to
Howl-O-Scream Orlando
Photo Courtesy of SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream continues its fifth anniversary celebration with the reveal of an all-new haunted house and the return of the interactive bar experience. The unique bar setup lets guests sip themed drinks while interacting with creepy characters and immersive storytelling. The lineup is shaping up to make this year’s event one of the strongest yet.
Photo of the Week
Farewell Frontierland's Rivers of America
A bittersweet farewell as the Liberty Square Riverboat sails its final voyage at Walt Disney World. The ride, along with Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island, officially closed on July 7 to make way for the upcoming Piston Peak National Park—a new Cars-themed land. Thank you to @adventuresawait_31 on Instagram for capturing this beautiful goodbye.
Video of the Week
LEGOLAND Shanghai Opens Its Gates
With 85 million LEGO bricks and a $550 million budget, the world’s largest LEGOLAND has officially opened in Shanghai. The park is expected to welcome over two million visitors annually and features unique attractions only found in Asia.
CoasterMedia Update
It’s been a busy (but fun) week during my staycation with the kids! I’ve got several Halloween updates and trip reports coming to CoasterMedia soon, so keep checking in. Thank you for your continued support—it means the world. See you next week!
– CoasterMedia Team
Get the inside scoop on your favorite attractions and theme parks around the world, from new rides and special events to helpful tips and hidden tricks.
That’s it for this week’s Theme Park Spot Talk. What story are you most excited about? Let us know.
