Universal Studios Hollywood To Celebrate America's 250th Birthday With a Blockbuster Bang
Universal Studios Hollywood will light up the sky this Independence Day as America turns 250, with fireworks and a new roller coaster inspired by The Fast & The Furious franchise. The Southern California theme park destination kicks off its summer season with blockbuster fun as vacation crowds roll in before the country's big July Fourthbirthday party.
New Coaster: Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift
Opening up this summer is a daring thrill ride inspired by Universal Pictures' Fast & Furiousfranchise of films starring Vin Diesel. The first major outdoor coaster at the West Coast park is built on the very real Hollywood hillside and over the long escalator corridor.
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We're bracing ourselves for quite an adrenaline rush. The ride will feature LA car scene-inspired ride vehicles that will drift (just like in the movies!) thanks to tech that allows them to rotate 360 degrees while on the track. If you're quick to get queasy, be aware that the cars spin while the spiritual NOS powers them to 72 mph. Testing in preparation for its opening has been ongoing, with no official date set as of publication time, but the likelihood of it opening by July 4th is high. For now, we know it's set to open sometime in the summer.
Universal Studios Hollywood 4th of July Celebration
Universal Studios Hollywood Mega Movie Summer celebrates the American pastime of blockbuster cinema. There's a new Steven Spielberg joint out, and the legendary filmmaker's vision of Americana is so deeply woven into the fabric of Universal Studios' theme park lore that it makes sense to celebrate his impact on Western cinema, too. When you think of the Fourth of July, you think of watching Jaws and taking to heart the film's timeless messages. You know, even if the mayor says it's okay to go in the water, maybe listen to the professionals who say there might be sharks there! And if you ride the backlot studio tour, you just might come face-to-face with one while passing through Amity Island, recreated to look just like the town in the 1975 film.
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During the weekend of July 3rd-4th, Universal Studios Hollywood will celebrate 250 years of America with an all-new fireworks display on Friday and Saturday night. Fingers crossed we get to hear some iconic Universal Pictures scores from James Horner; his An American Tail: Fievel Goes Westselections set to fireworks would be so fitting, as would some John Williams in the mix. Additionally, there will be live performances during the festivities on both days, which are included with theme park admission.
And for the theme park foodies, holiday-appropriate themed specialty foods will be offered. We're most excited about the Fast & Furious 25th anniversary menu, which has an LA-style hot dog among its grub and fuel choices. Then fitting in with the red, white, and blue vibes are the Jaws snacks and desserts. Among the shark bites, the themed selections will feature a lobster roll, an Amity Island parfait, and an Open Waters cocktail.
For more information visit: www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com
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This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 1:46 PM.