Volcano Bay’s Night-Time Fun!

When it comes to water parks, Orlando has the crème de la crème. There’s simply no argument, with five major parks and every type of ride, slide and flume you can imagine. They are guaranteed to test the material of your swimsuit to the max!

But there’s also an extra element to all the watery fun when the summer months roll around, especially with the new tradition at Universal’s Volcano Bay. Step forward Volcano Bay Nights, and a whole array of additional fun and entertainment as the sun goes down.

Billed as “The night-time beach bash you can’t miss,” Volcano Bay Nights is a separately ticketed event with a limited capacity, a party-style special event with additional elements and new ways to enjoy all the main attractions. And, just in case you thought things might be a bit too chilly for a water park at night, remember that the evening temperature in Orlando can easily still be 80F/27C at 10pm.

So, if you like the sound of an exclusive experience in a spectacular setting, take full notice of what Universal has lined up for the second annual outing of this impressive offering.

Party after dark

Just to start with, the Nights event is scheduled for 14 evenings from May 3 to August 21, taking full advantage of those balmy temperatures once the sun goes down (although we also have to add “weather permitting,” because we do have to bear in mind that the typical summer thunderstorms can sometimes linger into the evening hours, and water parks like Volcano Bay have to shut down when lightning is in the vicinity).

From 7 to 11pm, the park is reserved solely for party guests, and, with a reduced attendance, that means very short wait times for the park’s most popular rides, notably the supremely whizzy fun of Krakatau Aqua Coaster. Volcano Bay also looks dazzling under its night-time lights, and the whole feel of the park is distinctly different.

This limited-capacity party under the stars also comes with special in-park experiences, an exclusive menu and more, as well as access to all the most popular attractions, that also include the thrills of Ko’okiri Body Plunge and the fabulous dynamic lazy river feature of TeAwa the Fearless River. There is also an exciting Beach Bash at Waturi Beach featuring a live DJ and meet-and-greets with popular DreamWorks Animations characters from the Shrek and Madagascar movies.

Guests will also be able to indulge in complimentary treats, like Blue Raspberry Churro Bites and Garlic Parmesan-Flavoured Popcorn, purchase speciality food and beverage items at select locations around the park and enjoy more than 100 drink choices and refills of Coca-Cola beverages during the event with a complimentary Volcano Bay Freestyle Souvenir Cup.

Volcano Bay 101

While it is still only nine years old, Volcano Bay has quickly become a must-try water park with Universal fans. Its South Seas style and theming and uber-relaxing vibe are capped off by the visual exclamation mark of the 200ft volcano, Krakatau, which provides an epic viewpoint from everywhere within the park.

Most of the rides and slides are based on or around Krakatau, including the standout attraction of the Aqua Coaster, while the park is sub-divided into “villages” that each have their own features. There are also six tempting dining options, including two imaginative bars, and the food is arguably the best of any of Orlando’s water parks.

The most advantageous thing about Volcano Bay Nights, of course, is the limited capacity, which allows guests to enjoy all the main attractions with little or no wait in most cases. And, if you arrive for the 4pm opening time for evening ticketed visitors, you’ll have a full seven hours to make the most of it.

What are this year’s dates?

Volcano Bay Nights will take place on the following dates throughout the summer:

• May 3, 10, 17, 22 and 31 • June 5, 12, 18 and 25 • July 10 and 17 • August 7, 14 and 21

The party officially kicks off at 7pm on each event night, but ticketed guests can arrive as early as 4pm to enjoy the park during the day before the evening festivities begin. Tickets are already on sale (at $99 per person, plus tax), and parking for the event is also included. Universal Orlando Passholders can enjoy special savings and receive a 10 per cent discount off the ticketed price with a valid Annual or Seasonal pass and valid photo ID.

Want an even more upmarket experience? Guests looking for that ultra-relaxing experience can also reserve a private cabana for the event, starting at $199.99 plus tax. Private cabanas must be booked in-park at the concierge huts on the day of the event, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information and to purchase tickets to Volcano Bay Nights, visit the main Universal website.

Have you tried one of the water parks after dark? Tell us about your experience on our social media!