Fireworks Testing, New Experiences, And More

Disney and Universal theme park fans have plenty to be excited about with a wave of new updates, including fireworks testing for Universal’s highly anticipated Epic Universe, a thrilling new entertainment experience at Disney Springs, and refreshed ride effects at Walt Disney World.

LEVEL99 Coming to Disney Springs

One of the biggest updates is the announcement that LEVEL99 is bringing its interactive, social entertainment experience to Disney Springs’ West Side. According to theme park reporter Scott Gustin, the 45,000-square-foot venue, which will take over the former NBA Experience building, is designed for adults and groups looking for high-energy, real-world challenges that test both the body and mind. LEVEL99 describes itself as a “world of challenges,” offering a unique blend of interactive gaming and immersive environments. The venue will feature over 60 challenge rooms and duels, accommodating up to 1,000 players at a time.

Guests can look forward to a variety of experiences. The Challenge Rooms will allow teams of 2–6 players to navigate fast-paced, interactive puzzle rooms, each lasting between 1–4 minutes and requiring teamwork, strategy, and skill. Meanwhile, the Arena Duels will push players’ reflexes and strategic thinking to the limit in head-to-head competitive games. Additionally, visitors can explore Art Hunts, which feature installations created by local artists, challenging guests to search for clues and solve puzzles hidden within the artwork.

Beyond gaming, LEVEL99 will also offer a full menu of handcrafted food and drinks, including craft beers, cocktails, and Detroit-style pizza. Other menu items include Wagyu burgers, mac & cheese, wings, nachos, salads, and more, ensuring that players can refuel after an intense gaming session.

LEVEL99 currently operates two locations in Providence, Rhode Island, and Natick, Massachusetts, with additional expansions planned for Tysons Corner Center, Virginia, and West Hartford, Connecticut. The Disney Springs venue will mark the company’s fifth location and its largest yet. While specific ticket pricing for Disney Springs hasn’t been announced, prices at existing LEVEL99 locations range from $35.99 for a 2-hour experience, $45.99 for a 4-hour experience, and $55.99 for an all-day pass. The two-story venue will even feature a bar, making it a go-to entertainment hub for adults looking for a unique and competitive night out at Walt Disney World.

Disney World Ride Effects Restored

In addition to new experiences, Disney World has been fixing and restoring classic ride effects, bringing fresh life to fan-favorite attractions. According to WDWNT, Chum, the animated figure from The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT, is finally moving again. The hyperactive shark from Finding Nemo had been stationary inside the sunken ship scene for months, but as of February 19, 2025, he is back in motion. This long-awaited fix enhances the ride’s immersive storytelling for guests exploring the deep-sea adventure.

Another exciting fix is in The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where the infamous water leak effect has been restored after nearly 25 years. According to theme park reporter Drew Smith, in the eerie, dilapidated hotel queue, water once again drips from a ceiling pipe into a can on a tool cart, reinforcing the illusion that a hotel employee has been struggling to fix the leak. The effect adds an extra level of authenticity to the attraction’s haunting atmosphere.

Over in Magic Kingdom, another beloved animatronic is back in action. Ride Rover reported that the robot dog in Space Mountain, formerly known as “Nipper,” is wagging its tail once again. This animatronic has long been a fan-favorite detail in the post-show, and its return brings a touch of nostalgia to guests experiencing the futuristic journey.

Fireworks Testing for Epic Universe at Universal Orlando

Meanwhile, over at Universal Orlando, fireworks testing has begun for Epic Universe, the massive new theme park set to open in May 2025. Fireworks testing for a possible nighttime show was spotted lighting up the Orlando skyline on Thursday night, with videos captured by residents showing fireworks launching from at least three different locations behind Helios Grand Hotel.

Universal has not officially announced any nighttime show for the new theme park, but fireworks were featured in concept art as early as 2019. The company has stated that Celestial Park, Epic Universe’s central hub, will include “plenty of exciting entertainment, including various fountain shows throughout Celestial Park’s seven acres of water.”

With new entertainment experiences, classic ride effects restored, and theme park expansions on the horizon, Disney and Universal will continue to deliver fresh magic for visitors in 2025. Whether it’s solving puzzles at LEVEL99, enjoying a fully operational Disney ride, or catching a glimpse of Universal’s dazzling new fireworks, there’s plenty to look forward to in the world of theme parks.