Universal City—Universal Studios Hollywood ushers in the “Year of the Pig” as the movie-based theme park celebrates Lunar New Year with uniquely-themed programs featuring beloved global pop icon Hello Kitty, DreamWorks’ Kung Fu Panda masters Po and Tigress and a Mandarin-speaking Transformer’s MEGATRON, now through Monday, February 18, 2019.
This spectacularly-themed Lunar New Year tradition takes place within Universal Plaza, located at the heart of the theme park. Under a curtain of customary red Chinese lanterns and stunning plum blossom Wishing Trees, the festivities come to life as guests discover the 12 zodiac animal signs accompanied by their symbolic attributes.
The centerpiece of the Lunar New Year festivities features DreamWorks’ Kung Fu Panda Jade Palace Performance Stage and the exciting Dragon Warrior Training Show based on the beloved Kung Fu Panda franchise and Universal Studios Hollywood’s popular DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda” attraction.
The energetic experience is designed to engage guests of all ages in an interactive martial art demonstration performed by Master Po and friends. The immersive event also features seasoned animators teaching guests techniques to draw Po and the Furious Five as keepsake mementos.
DreamWorks Kung Fu Panda’s famous Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop is back by popular demand serving up delicious culturally-themed food such as Po’s Dumplings, Dragon Warrior Bao, Oogway Eggrolls and Secret Ingredient Stir Fry Noodles. Mr. Ping himself will be on hand to interact with guests and take memorable souvenir photos.
Beloved global pop icon Hello Kitty, created by the global lifestyle brand Sanrio, further complements this year’s Lunar New Year celebration as she steps out in style wearing her signature red bow and specially-designed Lunar New Year attire. Hello Kitty is available to meet guests at the Hello Kitty Shop located within the new Animation Studio Store.
Keeping with Universal Studios Hollywood’s Lunar New Year tradition, a Mandarin-speaking Transformer’s MEGATRON will greets guests at the entry of the festivities. The imposing 12-foot-tall robot leader of the DECEPTICONS interacts with guests, engaging them both in Mandarin and in real time conversation reflective of his persona.
Illumination Entertainment’s Minions from the theme parks’ popular Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride also join the festivities, stepping out in style and dressed up in brightly colored traditional Lunar New Year attire.
Adding to the beauty and excitement of this year’s Lunar New Year festivities are new traditional dance and martial arts cultural performances.
