Alright, my fellow Orlando adventurers, buckle up! This week is jam-packed with some seriously exciting news and events across Central Florida, from a big shake-up at Disney to Universal’s Mardi Gras magic and a brand-new coaster launching at LEGOLAND. Get ready to dive into all the fun, because Shadow Mouse has got your back with the inside scoop!
Don’t Miss This!
- Disney CEO Shake-Up!: A changing of the guard at the House of Mouse! Josh D’Amaro is stepping into the big shoes as CEO, so keep an eye out for how this new leadership shapes the magic to come.
- LEGOLAND’s Galacticoaster Blast-Off!: Get ready to launch into a brick-tastic adventure! LEGOLAND’s new indoor Galacticoaster is opening soon, promising out-of-this-world thrills for the whole family.
- Universal Mardi Gras Madness!: Let the good times roll! Universal’s Mardi Gras is in full swing, bringing incredible parades, live music, and global flavors right to the heart of Universal Studios Florida.
- Osceola County Fair Fun!: Beyond the parks, embrace some classic Floridian charm at the Osceola County Fair, packed with rides, shows, and all the delicious fair food your heart desires!
- Wekiwa Springs Escape!: Trade the hustle for nature’s whisper! Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Wekiwa Springs State Park for a refreshing dip or a peaceful paddle.
Pro Tip: Heads up, Potterheads! With the Hogwarts Express taking a little vacay, make sure you plan your park-hopping strategy at Universal a bit differently – consider starting at Islands of Adventure or utilizing the bus transportation between parks to save those precious wizarding steps!
Today’s Top News
- Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro to Become CEO of The Walt Disney Company
Josh D’Amaro, the current Chairman of Disney Experiences, will take over as Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, succeeding Bob Iger, effective March 18, 2026.
- Universal Orlando’s Hogwarts Express Temporarily Closed for Maintenance
The popular Hogwarts Express attraction, which connects Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, is temporarily closed for routine maintenance from February 9th through February 23rd, 2026.
- LEGOLAND Florida Resort to Launch New Indoor Galacticoaster in February
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is set to debut its new indoor family coaster, the Galacticoaster, on February 27, 2026, marking the park’s first indoor coaster and a significant new attraction.
- SeaWorld Orlando Rescues 16 Cold-Stunned Green Sea Turtles
SeaWorld Orlando’s rescue team recently took in 16 cold-stunned green sea turtles from Titusville for rehabilitation, with the goal of stabilizing and returning them to their natural habitat.
Upcoming Orlando Events
- Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval
February 7 – April 4, 2026 at Universal Studios Florida: A vibrant annual celebration at Universal Studios Florida featuring parades, live music, and international cuisine.
- Osceola County Fair
February 13 – 22, 2026 at Osceola Heritage Park, Kissimmee: A family-oriented event featuring rides, games, livestock shows, fair food, and a demolition derby.
- IMMERSE Fest 2026
February 20–22, 2026 at Downtown Orlando: Transforms Downtown Orlando into an open-air arts experience with large-scale installations, live performances, interactive exhibits, and immersive storytelling.
Hidden Gems – Explore Beyond the Parks
- Wekiwa Springs State Park
A natural paradise just minutes from downtown Orlando, offering opportunities for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and wildlife observation in its crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes.
- East End Market
A neighborhood market and food hall in the Audubon Park Garden District, showcasing Central Florida’s food entrepreneurs, makers, artisans, and chefs.
- The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Located in Winter Park, this museum houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his famed leaded-glass lamps, windows, and the reconstructed Tiffany Chapel.
Today’s Crowd Calendar
- Magic Kingdom: Moderate
- Epcot: Moderate
- Universal Studios Florida: Low
- Islands of Adventure: Moderate