Universal Orlando has entered its “watch us outdo the Mouse” era—and fans are noticing. With Epic Universe on the horizon and a steady stream of hype building around new attractions, Universal is leaning hard into passholder perks this month. But instead of just hyping rides, they’re bringing something else to the table: emotion, loyalty, and yes—freebies.
The new items? A Stardust Racers button and a Jaws 50th anniversary magnet, both available to Universal Orlando Annual Passholders for a limited time. And while they might seem like simple souvenirs, the deeper meaning behind them—and the strategy behind the giveaways—speaks volumes about how Universal is framing its future.
The UOAP Stardust Racers button and Jaws magnet are now available! Passholders can pick these up at the Tonight Shop and the UOAP Lounge! pic.twitter.com/v805mRK64G
— HHNSpeculationMatt (@SpeculationMatt) May 1, 2025
Let’s start with the Stardust Racers button. It’s more than just a nod to Epic Universe’s flagship coaster. The button design features sleek comets racing through a blue, celestial background, evoking that exhilarating space-race vibe. But here’s the clever twist—on the back, there’s a short poem that pays tribute to Dueling Dragons, the now-defunct (but much-loved) coaster from Islands of Adventure.
It’s a nostalgia play that works. Instead of erasing the past to make way for new IP, Universal is doing something Disney hasn’t done much lately: honoring its own extinct rides in a way that feels deliberate and celebratory. And they’re doing it without asking for a dime.
Then there’s the Jaws magnet. Designed in a classic red-white-and-blue theme, the magnet celebrates the 50th anniversary of the iconic film. Subtle touches—like the “O” in UOAP being an Amity Island life ring with a bite taken out of it—add depth to the design. Universal no longer has the Jaws ride, but it continues to embrace the movie’s legacy through merchandise, parade floats, and now this exclusive magnet.
Here’s where the real comparison to Disney comes in. While Disney certainly still creates meaningful experiences, their giveaways feel fewer and farther between these days. Universal, on the other hand, is simply rewarding passholders for showing up. That’s it. No extra hoops to jump through. Just walk in and grab your perk.
The simplicity of it all is refreshing. And let’s be honest—these freebies are good. They’re well-designed, themed, and collectible. The Stardust Racers button is the first of five that will roll out, each one representing a different Epic Universe land. So not only do you get a freebie, but you also get an incentive to return.
That’s a play straight out of Disney’s book—only executed with a bit more generosity and fan-first thinking.
Universal’s latest passholder gifts are doing more than filling lanyards and fridge doors. They’re building community. They’re stirring up memories. And they’re sending a clear message: Universal wants to be more than just the “other park.” It wants to be your park.
With Epic Universe coming in hot and Disney still in the midst of post-pandemic adjustments, the gap between these two giants may not be as wide as it once was. In fact, it’s shrinking. And for fans? That means more freebies, more fun, and maybe—just maybe—a little friendly rivalry that actually benefits the guest.
