Universal Epic Universe was honored at the May 2, 2026 Thea Awards Gala with four Outstanding Achievement awards from the Themed Entertainment Association, including the award for Theme Park.
For Universal Orlando guests, the recognition lands on several major Epic Universe experiences: Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, and the full Epic Universe park.
The Epic Universe wins
The Themed Entertainment Association announced the 32nd Annual Thea Award recipients on November 18, 2025, with the celebration set for May 2, 2026 at JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes.
Epic Universe was named as the Outstanding Achievement recipient in the Theme Park category. Universal’s How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk was also recognized in the Theme Park Land category.
Two Epic Universe experiences were singled out separately. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment received the Outstanding Achievement honor for Attraction, while Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry received the honor for Ride Experience.
A major Universal night
Universal Destinations and Experiences also received one of the night’s individual honors. Dale Mason, a retired Universal Creative executive, was named the Buzz Price Award recipient for a lifetime of distinguished achievement.
Universal said Mason spent more than 25 years with Universal Creative and worked on projects including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay.
Molly Murphy, president of Universal Creative, said Epic Universe “showcases the creativity, innovation and passion” of the Universal Creative team. Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Orlando Resort, said the recognition reflects work from teams across the business.
Disney’s Haunted Mansion Parlor
Thea’s official recipient list also includes Disney Cruise Line’s Haunted Mansion Parlor on the Disney Treasure, which was recognized in the Themed Food and Beverage Experience category.
The lounge draws from Disney’s Haunted Mansion attraction with a nautical storyline built around a sea captain and his bride. Disney has described the space as a craft cocktail lounge with portraits, ghost fish, and Haunted Mansion details from around the world.
What it means for guests
The awards give Epic Universe another industry marker during its first year with guests.
For park fans, the practical takeaway is simple: much of the 2026 Thea spotlight is on experiences guests can already plan around at Universal Epic Universe, with Disney Cruise Line also getting a Haunted Mansion win at sea.
Source: Themed Entertainment Association, Universal Destinations and Experiences, Disney Parks Blog
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