Explore the Magic of EPIC Universe at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort is taking your vacation to an entirely new dimension with its latest theme park, EPIC Universe. Set to open in summer 2025, this highly anticipated park promises to be the most immersive and expansive Universal park yet. Featuring groundbreaking attractions, lush landscapes, and unforgettable experiences, EPIC Universe will redefine what it means to vacation in Orlando.

The Incredible Lands of EPIC Universe

• Super Nintendo World: Step into the vibrant and colorful world of Nintendo, where you can explore Mushroom Kingdom, race through Mario Kart-inspired attractions, and meet iconic characters like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach.


• How to Train Your Dragon: Fly into the mythical land of Berk from the beloved DreamWorks franchise. With exciting rides, interactive shows, and opportunities to meet dragons, this land is perfect for adventurers of all ages.


• Universal Monsters: Enter a Gothic village haunted by classic Universal Monsters. From Frankenstein’s Castle to Dracula’s lair, this land will thrill fans with spine-chilling attractions and immersive storytelling.


• Wizarding World Expansion: Magic enthusiasts will be delighted by a new addition to the Wizarding World. While details remain under wraps, expect more spellbinding adventures and iconic locations.


• Celestial Gardens: A unique hub area that connects all the lands, Celestial Gardens will feature lush landscapes, dining options, and entertainment to keep the whole family enchanted.

Stay Close to the Action: Resort Options

• Universal Stella Nova Resort (Opening January 21, 2025): This sleek and modern resort offers a futuristic design and premium amenities, making it a perfect choice for families and couples alike.


• Universal Terra Luna Resort (Opening February 25, 2025): Embrace nature and tranquility at this eco-inspired resort, which blends modern luxury with serene landscapes.


• Universal Helios Grand Hotel (Opening May 22, 2025): The crown jewel of Universal’s new accommodations, this upscale hotel offers sophisticated rooms, exclusive dining, and unmatched service for a truly grand experience.

Why EPIC Universe is a Game-Changer

Your Guide to the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

The 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is back, running from January 17 through February 24, and it's bringing a vibrant lineup of art, entertainment, and—most importantly—food! As a self-proclaimed Disney foodie and travel enthusiast, this festival holds a special place in my heart, especially when it comes to indulging in creative, delicious dishes from around the world.

Here’s a look at the highlights, including my personal favorites, must-try new menu items, and a few daring dishes I might just have to skip!

Personal Favorites Making a Return
- Wild Mushroom Risotto (Gourmet Landscapes, Canada): Creamy, earthy, and elevated with aged parmesan, truffle shavings, and a zinfandel reduction—this dish is a festival classic that I’m thrilled to see again.
- Mozzarella Fritta (L’Arte di Mangiare, Italy): Breaded fresh mozzarella, flash-fried to golden perfection, and served with a palette of dipping condiments. It’s crispy, gooey comfort food that never disappoints.

New Must-Try Dishes
I’m always eager to explore what’s new, and this year’s lineup does not disappoint! These dishes are at the top of my list:
- Tricolore (L’Arte di Mangiare, Italy): Cheese-filled ravioloni served with pomodoro, cream, and pesto sauces. It sounds like a flavor explosion and a true work of culinary art.
- Hazelnut Cannoli (L’Arte di Mangiare, Italy): Chocolate-hazelnut cannoli cream, dipped in chocolate and graham cracker crumbs, and topped with toasted marshmallows—this dessert is bound to satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Caprese Poutine (Refreshment Port, Canada): French fries topped with confit tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, basil pesto, and balsamic glaze. It's a delightful Italian-Canadian fusion!
- Deviled Egg Trio (The Artist’s Table, America): A playful take on deviled eggs with unique flavors like Pimento Cheese, Green Goddess, and BLT.

Adventurous Dishes I’m Hesitant to Try
I love experimenting with new flavors, but there are a couple of items that give me pause:
- Charred Octopus (Connections Eatery, World Discovery): Served with crushed fingerling potatoes and romesco sauce, this dish features a full octopus leg. While I’m all for fresh seafood, the presentation might be a bit too bold for me this year.
- Squid Ink Pasta (Connections Eatery, World Discovery): It’s paired with lump crab and truffle cream, but the striking black color and strong flavors might be an acquired taste.

Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine
This year’s Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine food stroll is another must-do! Collect stamps from select colorful dishes (🎨) in your Festival Passport and redeem them for a sweet prize at Deco Delights. I’ll definitely be checking off a few of these vibrant dishes as I eat my way around the park.

Other Notable New Dishes
Here are a few more standouts I’m excited to try:
- Beef Wellington-inspired Croissant Supreme (Figment’s Inspiration Station): Creamed spinach croissant pinwheel topped with mustard-grilled flank steak and red wine sauce.
- Pithiviers de Canard et Volaille (L’Art de la Cuisine Française, France): A puff pastry filled with duck, chicken, onions, cranberries, and mushrooms.
- Har Gow (The Painted Panda, China): Shrimp dumplings with pumpkin purée and chili oil drizzle—a fun twist on a dim sum classic.

Sweet Sips and Colorful Cocktails
Pair your dishes with imaginative drinks like the Imagination Lemonade with butterfly pea tea, the Frozen French Martini, or the Color Craze Latte + Donut (perfect for coffee lovers like me).

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts continues to be a feast for the senses, and the 2025 lineup promises to be one of the most exciting yet. Whether you’re returning for festival favorites or diving into bold new flavors, there’s something here for everyone.

What are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments or reach out to start planning your next magical getaway. Book your trip today—email me!

Ready to indulge in the art of cuisine? 🎨 Let’s make it happen!

Why Taking a Trip Over Thanksgiving or Christmas is a GREAT Idea

The holiday season is often synonymous with family gatherings, packed schedules, and a touch of chaos. But what if you swapped the stress for sandy beaches, snowy adventures, or a relaxing resort stay this year? Here’s why taking a trip over Thanksgiving or Christmas is a GREAT idea:

1. Escape the Holiday Stress
Let’s be honest – cooking a massive meal, hosting guests, and juggling endless holiday errands can be exhausting. A trip allows you to enjoy the season without the pressure of planning, cleaning, and cooking. Let someone else take care of the details while you relax!

2. Create New Family Traditions
Holidays don't have to be celebrated the same way every year. Why not start a new tradition? Whether it’s a tropical Thanksgiving dinner on the beach or celebrating Christmas in a cozy cabin surrounded by snow, these experiences can create memories that last a lifetime.

3. Fewer Crowds in Some Destinations
Thanksgiving, in particular, is an ideal time to travel to places that don’t celebrate the holiday. European cities, tropical islands, and international destinations tend to be quieter, with shorter lines and fewer crowds. Bonus: it might even feel like you have the place to yourself!

4. All-Inclusive Resorts Do the Work for You
At an all-inclusive resort, there’s no need to worry about holiday cooking or cleaning up after guests. Enjoy a gourmet meal, festive decorations, and holiday activities without lifting a finger. Plus, many resorts go all out for Christmas and Thanksgiving with themed events and entertainment.

5. Perfect Time for Family Bonding
A vacation allows you to focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with loved ones. Leave behind the usual distractions and enjoy uninterrupted moments, whether you’re swimming in the ocean, skiing down a mountain, or savoring hot cocoa by a fire.

6. Holiday Sales and Travel Deals
While it may seem counterintuitive, some destinations offer fantastic holiday travel packages. If you book early, you can score amazing deals at luxury resorts or flights. And if you time your trip right, you can even sneak in some Black Friday or post-Christmas shopping!

 7. Make the Most of PTO
Taking a trip during the holidays is a smart way to maximize your paid time off. Many offices and businesses close or slow down during this period, so you can use fewer vacation days while still enjoying a much-needed break.

8. The Gift of Experience
Rather than spending money on gifts that might be forgotten, why not invest in an unforgettable trip? Traveling together as a family or with your partner can be the best holiday gift of all – one that fills your heart with joy and gives you memories to cherish forever.

This holiday season, skip the stress and do something *different*. Whether it’s lounging by the pool in Mexico, exploring a new city, or renting a cabin in the mountains, taking a trip over Thanksgiving or Christmas could be the best holiday decision you’ve ever made.

Book your trip today – email me at briana.capps@vincentvacations.com ! ✨