Texas is Getting a New Theme Park for Kids

Universal Destinations is expanding its horizons with a new theme park in Texas. This isn't just any theme park, though. It's a kid-centric destination that will feature some of the most popular animated franchises out there. Think Shrek, Jurassic World, and SpongeBob SquarePants. The new park, set to open in 2026 in Frisco, Texas, will be a major attraction for families in the Midwest and beyond. The park will have lands based on DreamWorks properties like Shrek and Puss in Boots, with a new icon, Perrito, joining the fairytale heroes. There will also be a trip to Bikini Bottom with Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants, a colorful Trolls world, and more Minion mayhem with Illumination’s Despicable Me franchise. And let’s not forget more Jurassic World fun without the danger of real dinos, with a land inspired by fan favorite Netflix show Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous. While this is exciting news, it's also a sign that the theme park wars with Disney have begun in earnest. The new park is just one of the many exciting things happening in the world of fandom travel and lifestyle. Los Angeles residents have been through a tough time with the recent fires, but they're coming together to support each other with a celebration of pop culture at this weekend’s MultiCon. The event will feature panels and a silent auction, with all proceeds going towards LA fire relief. The event will feature a variety of panels, including Stories of The Walking Dead, Wonder Women, Kings of Comics, Galaxy of Good, and Animation Nation. The event will also feature a variety of stars from TV and film, as well as top geek commentators. The event is a great way to support a good cause while also enjoying some pop culture. AMC Theaters is also getting in on the action with a 24-hour marathon of Best Picture nominees. The marathon will start at 12 p. m. March 1 and will feature a variety of films, including The Brutalist, Nickel Boys, A Complete Unknown, Anora, The Substance, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, I’m Still Here, and Wicked. The marathon is a great way to catch up on some of the best films of the year. Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival 2025 is also coming up, with a variety of artists making appearances throughout the fest for signings. The festival will feature a variety of fandom prints, including June Kim, Jerrod Maruyama, Ashley Taylor, Ryan Riller, and Larissa Brown. The festival is a great way to enjoy some delicious food and wine while also supporting some of the best artists in the business. If you're looking for a unique experience, Meow Wolf Grapevine is hosting a one-day interdimensional pet adoption event. The event will feature a variety of adoptable dogs, with all adoption fees going towards Grapevine Animal Services. The event is a great way to add a new member to your family while also supporting a good cause. If you're a fan of Batman and retro futurism, you'll want to check out the original Batman Adam West’s former home in Palm Springs. The home has been turned into a mid-century Gotham Bruce Wayne-inspired pad by Michelle Boudreau Design. The home is a great way to experience the world of Batman in a unique and exciting way. If you're a fan of Crocs and Monsters Inc. , you'll want to check out the new collab between the two. The collab features a variety of shoes and slippers, including a Mike Wazowski fit and Sully slippers. The collab is a great way to show your love for both Crocs and Monsters Inc. If you're a fan of Cinderella, you'll want to check out the new Loungefly and Casetify collabs. The collabs feature a variety of tech accessories and mini-backpacks, including the brand’s cosplay style. The collabs are a great way to show your love for Cinderella while also enjoying some stylish accessories. If you're a fan of Disney Princess, you'll want to check out the new collection at Bath & Body Works. The collection features a variety of scents inspired by our favorite fairytale heroines. The collection is a great way to enjoy some delicious scents while also supporting your favorite Disney Princess. If you're a fan of Tom and Jerry, you'll want to check out the new Casetify and Converse collabs. The collabs feature a variety of tech accessories and shoes, including the classic cartoon’s 85th anniversary. The collabs are a great way to show your love for Tom and Jerry while also enjoying some stylish accessories. If you're a fan of The Hobbit, you'll want to check out the new virtual challenges by Conqueror. The challenges feature a variety of digital realm marathons, including The Hobbit series. The challenges are a great way to experience the world of The Hobbit in a unique and exciting way.