Theme Park Spot Talk: Week of 11/28/2025
Black Friday Deals, Big Openings, and a New Era of Leadership Across the Parks
Black Friday! This weekend is one of the best times to grab a deal from your home park or plan your 2026 trips while the discounts are hot. Many parks are offering everything from season passes to special event bundles, so it’s worth browsing. Meanwhile, we’ve got a mix of new announcements and long-awaited openings, plus more IAAPA and holiday-season updates on the way. Let’s get to it!
Latest News
1
A New Era at Six Flags with John Reilly, The Leadership Shift That Could Reshape the Parks
Six Flags has officially welcomed John Reilly as its new President and CEO, marking a major leadership shift that could usher in big changes across the entire chain. Reilly has decades of experience in theme park operations and is known for a strong focus on guest experience and operational improvement—something many fans have been hoping to see revitalized at Six Flags parks.
While it will take time to see how his vision rolls out, the transition comes at a key moment as Six Flags prepares for its international expansions and post-merger identity. Many are curious how Reilly’s leadership style will influence capital investments, park operations, and overall guest offerings in the years ahead.
2
A New Era Dawns in Arendelle: World of Frozen Opens at Disneyland Paris
Photo Courtesy of Disney
World of Frozen has officially opened at Disneyland Paris within the rapidly transforming Disney Adventure World, marking the land’s debut in Europe. This expansion brings fans into the heart of Arendelle with a stunning atmosphere, new culinary options, and of course, the signature Frozen Ever After attraction.
This addition strengthens Disneyland Paris as it continues its multi-year transformation. With beautifully crafted architecture, new entertainment, and immersive storytelling, it’s poised to become one of the most photographed and beloved lands across the resort.
3
Guardians of the Hidden Chamber Brings Big Thrills to a Small Footprint at Doha Quest
Photo Courtesy of Sally Dark Ride
Doha Quest continues expanding its lineup, and now Sally Dark Rides is delivering a compact but high-energy experience with Guardians of the Hidden Chamber. Despite the smaller footprint, the attraction packs in interactive elements, motion-based action, and cinematic scenes that turn the ride into something larger than its physical size.
Doha Quest is quickly becoming known for its innovative indoor lineup, and this new addition reinforces its modern, tech-forward approach. It’s a great example of how smaller spaces can still offer massive thrills with the right creative team behind them.
4
Universal Kids Resort Unpacked: A Land-by-Land Journey Through Its Experiences
Photo Courtesy of Universal Kids Resort
Universal Kids Resort shared more details this week about what families can expect when the park opens next year. The lineup includes playful attractions, interactive adventures, character meet-and-greets, and family-friendly rides that lean heavily into imagination and creativity. Each land aims to offer its own personality, ensuring kids of all ages have something to look forward to.
This is Universal’s first-ever kids-centered theme park, and the design direction shows a major investment in making it a destination tailored specifically for younger families. With carefully curated lands and a lighter, more whimsical approach, this resort is shaping up to be a standout addition to the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
5
Olaf Steps Into a New Era at Disneyland Paris
Photo Courtesy of Disney
A next-generation Olaf character has debuted at Disneyland Paris, marking a breakthrough in animated, free-roaming performance technology at the park. This update gives Olaf more expressive movement and a more seamless interaction style, bridging the gap between character meet-and-greets and living animation.
Guests have been amazed at how natural he looks in motion, and he’s already become a major highlight for Frozen fans. Disneyland Paris continues to serve as a testing ground for advanced character technology, and Olaf is one of the strongest examples yet.
Read More:Â Olaf Steps Into a New Era at Disneyland Paris
Photo of the Week​
Blue Fire at Europa Park
Blue Fire at Europa Park remains one of the most photogenic coasters in Europe, and @europa_zu_dem_park captured a beautiful sunset moment that brings out all the coaster’s sleek design and incredible silhouette. Blue Fire launched in 2009 and was Europa Park’s first major launch coaster. It includes five inversions, a heartline roll finale, and a smooth, powerful launch that made it one of the most popular rides in the park when it opened. It also marked Mack Rides’ first big step into high-thrill launch coaster development.
Video of the Week​
The Cat In The Hat - Universal's Island of Adventure
As we step into the holiday season, it’s hard not to get nostalgic for the festive charm of Who-ville at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. The decorations, music, and Grinch-inspired atmosphere always bring a playful and cozy energy to the park.
It’s also always nice to step into the story of Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat. Here’s a great POV that takes you page by page through the classic storybook in ride form, capturing the quirky charm and whimsical spirit of Seuss Landing.
CoasterMedia Update​
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– 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.
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