Epic Universe is about to open, and even a little construction hiccup can’t take away from the magic that’s coming. Universal Orlando’s brand-new park officially opens to the public on May 22, and it’s shaping up to be nothing short of spectacular.
This park isn’t just a few rides thrown together — it’s a whole new world. Five massive lands await: Celestial Park, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a fantasy lover, or a gamer at heart, Epic Universe promises to have something that will blow you away.
But when you’re trying to build an entire universe, not every piece fits perfectly right away. During Passholder Previews, eagle-eyed fans spotted a pretty funny construction slip-up in Celestial Park. Near the entrance to the Harry Potter section, close to the start of Stardust Racers, there’s a patch of dirt — right where glowing, decorative trees were supposed to be installed.
Dirt instead of tree lighting in Celestial Park. Just outside of the Harry Potter world, toward Stardust Racers. Seems like a construction error. pic.twitter.com/vBjaEmF90B
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) April 27, 2025
No trees. No lights. Just dirt.
It’s definitely not the look Universal had in mind when they designed this breathtaking hub area. But, considering the scale of Epic Universe, it’s a small issue in the grand scheme. Supply delays, minor technical setbacks — it’s all part of racing to finish a project of this magnitude.
And let’s be honest: when you’re stepping into new lands, riding cutting-edge attractions like Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, or flying across the Isle of Berk, you’re not going to lose sleep over a missing tree or two.
Epic Universe is already getting rave reviews from preview guests. From the stunning interactive elements in Super Nintendo World to the jaw-dropping effects inside the Ministry of Magic, the park feels like a new evolution for theme parks everywhere. Celestial Park itself — dirt patch aside — looks like it belongs in a movie. With fountains, gardens, and even a massive carousel themed to the stars, it’s everything you’d hope for in a theme park centerpiece.
Universal’s May 22 opening is still on track, and once the last landscaping tweaks are made, Epic Universe is going to set a whole new standard. A little dirt isn’t going to change that — if anything, it just proves that even when things aren’t perfect, Universal is still delivering something truly extraordinary.
