Now that Halloween Horror Nights has wrapped up and the Holiday Celebration is right around the corner, it’s time to look ahead. The future of Universal Studios Hollywood is shining bright with a fantastic lineup of returning favorites, exclusive passholder perks, and one major new attraction that’s sure to turn heads in 2026.

What’s new at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2026?

If you haven’t heard by now, Universal Studios Hollywood is gearing up to open its first-ever high-speed outdoor roller coaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift! Inspired by the adrenaline-fueled movie franchise, this cutting-edge coaster promises a unique blend of speed, technology, and cinematic flair.

Riders will strap into one of four cars modeled after the films’ iconic vehicles, including Dominic Toretto’s legendary 1970 Dodge Charger, and experience the sensation of drifting at high speed as their ride vehicles rotate 360 degrees along 4,100 feet of twisting, elevated track. The coaster will even soar over the massive escalator that connects the Upper and Lower Lots.

The queue itself will place guests inside a garage-themed environment before launching them into the action. Universal has also built the attraction with sound reduction technology, ensuring a smooth ride experience without disrupting nearby areas. Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift officially opens in 2026 and marks a thrilling new chapter for Universal Studios Hollywood.

2026 Universal Studios Hollywood event lineup

If 2025 was any indication, you can expect a similar event calendar filled with plenty of magic, thrills, and nostalgia. Here’s what’s on deck for 2026:

Butterbeer Season (March – May): Not technically an “event,” but a beloved fan-favorite tradition in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Enjoy limited-time treats and themed drinks while soaking in the springtime atmosphere.
Universal Fan Fest Nights (April 23 – May 16): Fan Fest returns with a fresh lineup of themed entertainment and surprises. This year, we’re getting a Scooby-Doo x Universal Monsters crossover — and here’s hoping it includes a special WaterWorld theater show!
Mega Movie Summer (June – August): Summer means blockbusters! Mega Movie Summer is back, celebrating Universal’s greatest hits. Personally, I’d love to see The Mummy get the spotlight this time around.
4th of July Celebration (July 3–4): Ring in Independence Day with fireworks, music, and patriotic fun throughout the park.
Back to Hogwarts (August – September): As summer winds down, get ready for a magical back-to-school celebration at Hogwarts.
Halloween Horror Nights (September 3 – November 1): The screams return! Prepare for more terrifying mazes, chilling scare zones, and spooky fun as HHN dominates the fall season.
Holidays at Universal (November – December): From Grinchmas to the magic of Hogsmeade, Universal knows how to bring the holiday cheer.
EVE: New Year’s Celebration (December 31): Close out the year in style with Universal’s massive New Year’s Eve party — fireworks, DJs, and plenty of celebration to go around.

When to buy a 2026 Season Pass

Thinking about becoming a Universal passholder? Now’s the perfect time. For a limited period, you can get three months free when you purchase an annual pass — just in time for the holidays. (And honestly, they make amazing stocking stuffers… hint hint to anyone shopping for me!)

Passholder perks and exclusive events

Owning a Universal Studios Hollywood annual pass isn’t just about park access — it comes with tons of exclusive perks. Depending on your pass tier, you’ll enjoy special discounts, early park entry on select days, and exclusive events just for pass members. Here’s a glimpse of what’s planned for 2026:

May–June: Pass Member Collectible Giveaway + Special Passholder Event (details coming soon)
August–September: Pass Member Appreciation Days — enjoy the park with lighter crowds and exclusive surprises.
Fall Season: Second Collectible Giveaway between Halloween Horror Nights and the holiday season.
December: Pass Member Holiday Park Takeover — celebrate the holidays crowd-free on select nights!

Final Thoughts

Between a brand-new coaster that’ll redefine thrills and a year packed with fan-favorite events, 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year at Universal Studios Hollywood. Whether you’re in it for the adrenaline, the nostalgia, or the seasonal magic, this is definitely the year to go big — or drift home trying.

Looking for information on the Holiday Celebration happening later this month? Here’s everything you need to know!