This week’s theme park news is sizzling with excitement as summer hits the theme parks and vacation destinations. Universal Studios Hollywood is taking fans on a blast from the past with Back to the Future and Jaws while also introducing new and thrilling experiences with Wicked and Jurassic World. Meanwhile, the Universal Monsters are gearing up to invade Sin City with the debut of Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas this August.

At the Disney Parks, Walt Disney World is preparing for the highly anticipated reopening of Test Track. Additionally, Old Navy and Disney have teamed up to launch a fantastic summer collection, Mickey & Friends, which is perfect for a road trip across America.

Just in time for the release of DC Studios’ Superman, Six Flags is bringing together the Justice League for an unforgettable superhero experience!

Mega Movie Summer at Universal Studios Hollywood

The theme park is celebrating iconic blockbuster movies with new entertainment, food, and more. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Jaws, the hanging shark has made its return, along with a special meet and greet with Quint and Brody. Fans of the film will also appreciate the fantastic impressions of Robert Shaw and Roy Scheider by the actors. Meanwhile, Back to the Future enthusiasts can enjoy the presence of Doc Brown, Marty McFly, and Einstein the dog in the DeLorean, accompanied by specially curated cinematic cuisine.

For fans of the Jurassic franchise, a Mosasaur roar has been added to Jurassic World: The Ride, and a new tiny triceratops meet and greet is available. Wicked fans can meet Elphaba and Glinda and explore the new merchandise in the designated store.

Universal Horror Unleashed: Universal Monsters – Area15 Las Vegas

All the Universal Monsters will be featured in one haunted house at Universal Horror Unleashed, which is sharing updates ahead of its arrival at Las Vegas’ immersive experience destination Area15.

According to Universal Creative’s Lorelei Lee, “We’ve got four incredible haunted houses that put you right in the middle of iconic and terrifying scenes. In the Universal Monsters House, you get to follow Van Helsing as he battles all of your favorite classic monsters.” The destination is currently slated to feature houses in the universes of The Exorcist, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, and Horror Nights original canon characters, along with performers, walk-around scare-actors, themed frightful foods, and scary sips.

Shelby Honea, executive producer at Universal Creative, added, “We’re bringing something entirely new to Las Vegas. It is a year-round destination, and so is our horror brand.” For more information, check out the recent Discover Universal podcast that outlines what’s to come at Universal Horror Unleashed.

M3GAN 2.0 at Universal Studios Florida

In celebration of M3GAN 2.0, the army of dancing M3GANS has made their theme park return in limited appearances during the day at Universal Studios Florida. Images of their return are courtesy of Park Hop on IG.

Walt Disney World announces Test Track opening date

The Epcot cars ride is set to reopen with new theming and a refreshed look on July 22.

io9 met Laufey at House of Mouse Los Angeles

We caught up with musical artist Laufey live from House of Mouse Los Angeles, where she shared her fondness for Disney, saying, “I grew up in Iceland, which is definitely a very, very different climate and a different world. I always knew of Mickey. And that was one of those first characters that I became aware of.” Laufey also revealed her favorite childhood Disney toys, including a Piglet from the Winnie the Pooh collection.

The Disney Style pop-up party is currently on a global tour at major cities where fandom and fashion collide.

Disney and Old Navy go on a road trip across America

To celebrate the summer, Disney and Old Navy have launched a Mickey & Friends collab for the whole family. The collection features a range of items, including swimwear, tees, sweaters, kidswear, and accessories, perfect for any weather. If you’re in Chicago this weekend, be sure to check out the Disney x Old Navy road trip van, which will feature immersive photo-ops, treats, and a showcase of the collection with a summer BBQ vibe on the 21st. The van will also stop at the Santa Monica Pier on June 28.

Shop the collection online here.

Disney Jr. Let’s Play – The Disneyland Resort

Kids can have more fun with Mickey and friends as Disney Jr. Let’s Play returns to the Disneyland Resort from August 8-10.

DC Heroes at Six Flags Magic Mountain

DC Heroes and Villains Fest arrives at Six Flags, bringing action stunt shows, character meets, music, and more to get superhero fans hyped up for a Superman movie summer. The event will take place on Friday and Saturday nights from June 20-July 26.

Kung Fu Tea x How to Train Your Dragon

Kung Fu Tea locations across the nation will feature special drinks inspired by Universal Pictures’ How to Train Your Dragon until June 30, along with collectible cups and stickers. The flavors include:

Toothless Soaring Slush – a frosty swirl with milk cap magic
Stormfly’s Dragonfruit Splash – citrusy zing + chia seeds that pop
Monstrous Flight Tea – dragonfruit base, honey boba finish

Pop Mart x Pride

The toy collectible giant Pop Mart has launched its Pride collection at LA Pride, featuring a float and LGBTQIA+ collectibles creators. Check out the limited releases, including Peach Riot and Hug You with special Pride colorways, online now.

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.