Universal Orlando Unveils Summer Blockbuster Lineup Including Spielberg Exhibit and 'Jaws' Experiences

Key facts

• Summer experiences run from May 23 through August 10, 2026.
• A new exhibit, 'Disclosure Day', commemorates Steven Spielberg films and the upcoming Universal Pictures release on June 12.
• New 'Jaws'-inspired experiences include photo ops, specialty bites and drinks, and exclusive merchandise.
• Illumination's 'Minions & Monsters' previews feature new characters Henry and James, with themed menu items at Minion Cafe.
• Universal Mega Movie Parade returns with floats from 'Jaws', 'Ghostbusters', 'Jurassic World', and 'Minions'.
• Hogwarts Always projection show returns to Islands of Adventure starting May 30.
• World Cup soccer games will be shown at NBC Sports Grill & Brew from June 11 through July 19.
• Independence Day celebration on July 4 includes character meet-and-greets, live DJs, and pyrotechnics.

A Summer of Cinema at Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort will launch a sweeping series of limited-time, movie-themed experiences this summer, running from May 23 through August 10, 2026. The seasonal offerings aim to immerse guests in blockbuster films through character encounters, themed photo opportunities, interactive activations, exclusive merchandise, and new food and beverage options. The resort will also bring back fan-favorite seasonal entertainment, including the Universal Mega Movie Parade and Hogwarts Always, on select nights. The lineup spans all three parks and CityWalk, with additional programming at the resort's 11 hotels.

Spielberg Summer Blockbusters and 'Disclosure Day' Exhibit

At Universal Studios Florida, guests can explore a collection of props and behind-the-scenes stories from iconic films by legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg. The centerpiece is a limited-time exhibit tied to the upcoming Universal Pictures release 'Disclosure Day', which hits theaters on June 12. The exhibit offers a rare look at the filmmaking process behind some of cinema's most celebrated movies. It is part of a broader 'Spielberg Summer Blockbusters' theme that underscores the director's enduring influence on popular culture.

'Jaws' Returns with Interactive Experiences and Exclusive Merchandise

Universal Studios Florida will celebrate the classic blockbuster 'Jaws' with a series of interactive experiences. Guests can engage with photo ops that highlight iconic elements and settings from the film, and enjoy specialty 'bites' and drinks inspired by the movie. A new parks-exclusive merchandise collection includes limited-release apparel, accessories, and more. The activation taps into the nostalgia for the 1975 film while offering fresh ways for fans to engage with the property.

Illumination's 'Minions & Monsters' Preview and Themed Menu

Fans can get a glimpse of the highly-anticipated Illumination film 'Minions & Monsters' through interactive photo ops featuring two new Minions, Henry and James, who will be introduced in the movie. The Minion Cafe will offer special menu items inspired by the film, including Irene’s Creamsicle Cheesecake Fold Over and Monster Marshmallow Lemonade. Parks-exclusive merchandise includes Minions & Monsters blind box collectible figures and a shoulder pal of Goomi, one of the adorable new characters. The preview aims to build excitement ahead of the film's release.

Returning Favorites: Mega Movie Parade and Hogwarts Always

The Universal Mega Movie Parade will once again bring iconic films like 'Jaws', 'Ghostbusters', 'Jurassic World', and Illumination’s Minions to life with more than a dozen floats at Universal Studios Florida. To end the night, guests can enjoy CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, a nighttime lagoon show that immerses audiences in a cinematic journey through memorable moments and soundtracks from blockbuster films. Over at Islands of Adventure, Hogwarts Always will return to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade beginning May 30. The projection show on Hogwarts Castle highlights key moments from a school year at Hogwarts, offering a magical experience for Harry Potter fans.

Summer Movie Series and World Cup Screenings at CityWalk

On select dates from June 20 through August 26, guests can revisit beloved films with screenings at Universal Cinemark in CityWalk, including 'Back to the Future', 'Jaws', and 'E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial' (movie ticket required). The Summer Movie Series provides a nostalgic escape for movie lovers. At NBC Sports Grill & Brew, guests can watch the highly anticipated World Cup soccer games from June 11 through July 19, with specialty food and beverage offerings and live entertainment. The Red Coconut Club will feature Re(d)tro Nights on select nights from May 8 through July 18, an 80s and 90s inspired overlay with arcade games, photo opportunities, and a DJ spinning throwback hits.

Hotel Experiences, Independence Day, and Special Deals

Across all 11 Universal Orlando hotels, guests can enjoy larger-than-life sand sculptures inspired by popular characters and stories, as well as summer-inspired themed beverages. Hotel guests also gain access to exclusive character meet-and-greets in Universal Studios Florida every Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. On July 4, the resort will host a destination-wide Independence Day celebration featuring character meet-and-greets, live DJs and entertainment, and special pyrotechnics. The resort has announced special deals and offers to help guests plan their summer vacation, though details have not yet been fully disclosed.

The bottom line

• Universal Orlando's summer 2026 program runs from May 23 to August 10, with movie-themed experiences across all parks and hotels.
• A new Steven Spielberg exhibit tied to 'Disclosure Day' offers behind-the-scenes props and stories.
• The 'Jaws' activation includes photo ops, themed food and drinks, and exclusive merchandise.
• Illumination's 'Minions & Monsters' preview introduces new characters Henry and James with themed menu items and collectibles.
• Returning entertainment includes the Universal Mega Movie Parade, CineSational lagoon show, and Hogwarts Always projection show.
• CityWalk will host a Summer Movie Series, World Cup screenings, and Re(d)tro Nights, while hotels feature sand sculptures and character meet-and-greets.