Latest from Thrill Geek
Thrill Geek
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Thrill Geek
Celebrate 626 Day with New Lilo & Stitch Collections from Disney and Partners
Get ready to blast off into blue alien fandom—626 Day is here! Today, June 26, Disney fans around the globe will celebrate Stitch, everyone's favorite mischief-maker from Lilo & Stitch , with a lineup of all-new toys, apparel, collectibles, and more. This year's 626 Day celebration brings a wave of exclusive products across mass retailers and including: New apparel collections from Cakeworthy and RSVLTS Exclusive Stitch and Angel plush from Disney Store Japan A first-of-its-kind animatronic Stitch plush from Just Play, available for pre-order A playful H&M collection featuring tropical Stitch styles A themed jewelry line from RockLove with galactic flair What started in 2019 as a fan-driven trend across social media has now evolved into a major Disney Consumer Products campaign. Recognizing the viral impact of #626Day and Stitch's growing popularity on platforms like TikTok and Disney+, Disney officially embraced the holiday in 2021—and it's only grown bigger every year. The celebration is especially meaningful this summer, following the massive success of the Lilo & Stitch live-action film, which premiered to a record-breaking $183 million over Memorial Day weekend. Stitch has since become the fastest-growing brand in Disney Consumer Products, projected to top $3 billion at retail by the end of 2025. Fans can expect exclusive drops, themed content, and family-friendly merchandise that captures the spirit of Stitch and his 'ohana. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering the franchise for the first time, 626 Day is your chance to celebrate 23 years of love for Experiment 626. Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she's been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she's not at a theme park, she's probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.
Thrill Geek
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Thrill Geek
Disney and Coca-Cola Launch Limited-Time Star Wars-Inspired Bottles
Disney and Coca-Cola are celebrating the enduring legacy of Star Wars with the launch of special-edition Coca-Cola bottles—each designed with a galactic twist and inspired by beloved characters from the saga. This exclusive series pays tribute to the passion and creativity of Star Wars fans around the world. These limited-edition bottles feature Aurebesh, the written language of the Star Wars galaxy, and glow with character-inspired hues. Fans can look forward to designs based on Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, and more. Each bottle is a collectible keepsake and a tribute to the powerful storytelling that has defined generations. The collectible bottles are available exclusively at select locations in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida—offering a unique way for guests to immerse themselves further in the Star Wars universe during their visit. This launch is part of a broader celebration recognizing the impact of Star Wars fandom and the stories that have inspired generations. Whether you're a Rebel, Sith, Jedi, or droid devotee, these bottles serve as a fun and immersive way to show your allegiance. Guests planning a visit to Batuu can experience this exclusive collaboration for a limited time, making it the perfect moment to enjoy a refreshing drink with a galactic flair. Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83
Thrill Geek
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Thrill Geek
Universal Horror Unleashed Expands to Chicago with Year-Round Immersive Horror Experience
Universal Destinations & Experiences, the themed entertainment division of Comcast NBCUniversal, has officially announced its second Universal Horror Unleashed location—coming soon to Chicago, Illinois. This all-new, year-round indoor horror attraction will bring Universal's legacy of cinematic terror to the Midwest for the first time, reinforcing the brand's commitment to delivering original, immersive horror experiences beyond the boundaries of its traditional theme parks. Strategically selected for its dynamic culture, strong tourism industry, and large population base, Chicago will serve as the next hub for Universal's growing portfolio of regional entertainment destinations. The venue will be located on Chicago Avenue, at the site of the former Tribune Distribution Center, nestled between the River North and West Town neighborhoods. 'Universal Horror Unleashed delivers on our promise to create highly immersive and terrifying horror experiences that connect with fans year-round,' said Page Thompson, President, New Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences. 'We're excited to bring this bold concept to life in Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culture. We're grateful for the city's support as we convert this dormant site into a unique attraction that showcases our storytelling expertise and ability to deliver mind-blowing experiences that shatter guest expectations.' The Chicago venue will bring Universal's iconic horror storytelling to life through terrifying environments, immersive attractions, and original scares designed for horror fans of all kinds. The experience will also include themed food and beverage offerings, such as specialty cocktails and creatively crafted bites, along with a dedicated retail space featuring exclusive merchandise and collectibles. The expansion of Universal Horror Unleashed is a key part of Universal's long-term strategy to introduce innovative, location-based experiences to new audiences in untapped markets. This announcement follows a wave of major developments for Universal Destinations & Experiences, including: The upcoming debut of Universal Horror Unleashed Las Vegas, opening August 14, 2025 The successful opening of Universal Epic Universe in Orlando The 2026 arrival of Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas Plans for a new theme park and resort in the United Kingdom, slated for 2031 The Las Vegas location of Universal Horror Unleashed was first announced in January 2023 and marks the brand's initial step into year-round horror entertainment outside the theme park model. Tickets for the Las Vegas location are now on sale at Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83
Thrill Geek
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Thrill Geek
Disney and Pixar's Elio Lands at Disney Parks Worldwide
Disney and Pixar's Elio is bringing a wave of cosmic fun to Disney Parks across the globe in celebration of the film's theatrical release. From themed treats and dance parties to immersive photo ops and exclusive merchandise, guests can join Earth's newest ambassador on a truly intergalactic adventure—no rocket ship required. Walt Disney World Resort At EPCOT, Elio beamed Spaceship Earth straight into the Communiverse with a digital stunt that kicked off the festivities. Over in Tomorrowland, guests can join the Galactic Blast DJ dance party and explore Elio's Guide to an Intergalactic Adventure , a themed takeover of Merchant of Venus filled with film backdrops and photo ops. Don't miss the Elio Float at Auntie Gravity's: a purple Sprite float topped with vanilla soft-serve, fruit boba, star sprinkles, and sour straws, available through September 1. Disneyland Resort Pixar Place Hotel is showcasing the Art of Pixar Gallery featuring Elio , with concept art, sculptures, and a fun photo location. Visitors can also spot life-sized sculptures of Glordon and other alien characters throughout the space. Disneyland Paris At Disneyland Paris, Elio takes over Discoveryland with an animated Magic Shot and drawing sessions at Animation Academy. Six collectible character cards are also up for grabs, and surprise water art drawings of Elio and Glordon appear across the park. Shanghai Disney Resort Shanghai guests can enjoy themed paper goods at Stargazer Grill in Tomorrowland, featuring characters from Elio . Out-of-This-World Merchandise Guests can take the adventure home with plush toys, collectible pins, action figure sets, Mattel's MINIS Ooooo's Ooze unboxing toy, Funko POP! & Buddy figures, and The Art of Elio book. There's even a Little Golden Book retelling for the youngest space explorers. Wherever you are on Earth, there's a way to explore the Communiverse this summer. Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she's been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she's not at a theme park, she's probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.
Thrill Geek
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Thrill Geek
Universal Horror Unleashed Reveals More Frightening Details Ahead of Grand Opening in Las Vegas
Universal Destinations & Experiences is set to redefine terror with the grand opening of Universal Horror Unleashed, a first-of-its-kind year-round horror attraction debuting August 14 at the AREA15 District in Las Vegas. New details have emerged about one of the cornerstone experiences—the Universal Monsters haunted house—along with two original themed areas: Dead Storage and The Boiler, an immersive cocktail bar experience like no other. In the Universal Monsters haunted house, the legends of classic horror cinema break free from their silver screen origins and come terrifyingly to life. Guests will journey through the ruins of famed monster hunter Van Helsing's mausoleum, only to be thrust into the cursed territories of Universal's most iconic creatures. From the echoing corridors of Castle Dracula to the ancient tombs of The Mummy, and the electrified laboratory where Frankenstein and The Bride still haunt the living, this fully immersive haunted experience unites the most legendary monsters ever imagined in one continuous, spine-chilling nightmare. Before entering Van Helsing's realm, guests will first brave Dead Storage, a hauntingly atmospheric themed zone set within a forgotten section of an abandoned production warehouse. Reminiscent of Universal's earliest horror sets, this gothic graveyard of film relics is alive with nocturnal terror. Guests may encounter vampires, a werewolf mid-transformation, and other dark creatures that lurk in the shadows, all while navigating an environment filled with eerie set pieces and props lost to time. At the heart of the experience lies The Boiler, a darkly industrial cocktail bar pulsing with mechanical energy and infernal ambiance. Here, multiple horror zones converge, offering guests a space to unwind without ever truly escaping the horror. Beneath a towering, flame-spewing machine, patrons can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and soak in the atmosphere of this uniquely twisted reprieve. Universal Horror Unleashed will feature four immersive themed areas and four major haunted house experiences, including: Universal Monsters Blumhouse's The Exorcist: Believer The Texas Chainsaw Massacre Scarecrow: The Reaping In addition to the frights, guests can explore horror-themed food and beverage offerings, specialty bars, and a retail location filled with exclusive merchandise and collectibles. Tickets are now available at For fans of fear, this is the next evolution in immersive horror entertainment—an experience that never sleeps, and never lets you forget what lurks in the dark. Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83
