Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is getting ready for Holiday in the Park 2008. The park recently lifted the iconic Christmas tree into place in the Dolphin Fountain plaza.

 

 

 This year’s tree will stand 80 feet tall and weigh in at 7,500 pounds. Over 30,000 lights and 2,000 ornaments will be placed this week in preparation of Holiday in the Park. The event kicks off on Friday, November 28th.

To get ready for HIP 2008, visit our event page which lists all the attractions and hours for Holiday in the Park.

 

 

We have a new update from Kings Island where Diamondback track work continues. A special thanks to our reader Nick for the photos. If you have any photos that you would like to contribute to Theme Park Village, please feel free to Contact Us and let us know!

View the Diamondback update here.

 

 

 

Universal Studios Hollywood has introduced a new solar powered golf cart for their back lot transportation.  The park describes the golf cart as, “The device, created to achieve savings in fossil fuel use and carbon emissions and to replace the familiar gas-powered studio transportation staples, was designed and manufactured by the Cruise Car company.”

 

 

Universal Studios Hollywood was the first theme park to receive the Environmental Media Association's Green Seal Award for achievements in environmental awareness.

Read the full press release here or visit the Green is Universal website.

 

 

Disney World covers nearly 50 square miles. In addition to its four theme parks, Disney World also boasts two water parks, several PGA-quality golf courses, three miniature golf courses, over 20 destination resort hotels, and two nighttime entertainment districts. Below are a few highlights for your next non-park day:

 

 

When you want a break from waiting in lines and trying to find a free piece of curb for the parade, head toward the exit turnstyles and try some out-of-park experiences:
               * Feeling outdoorsy? Rent a sailboat for the afternoon or a pontoon boat for a picnic on  the water; try your hand at bass fishing; take your kid (or spouse!) parasailing; take a carriage ride or roast marshmallows at a campfire with Chip and Dale at Fort Wilderness; or head out for some archery or horseback riding.
             * Have a gamer in the family? Head over to DisneyQuest for video and interactive games for the whole family.
             * Want to try a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Sign up for Epcot’s DiveQuest Tour where you can swim with dolphins at the Living Seas, or feel like a racecar driver for the day at the Richard Petty Driving Experience.
              * Want some sports with your magic? Check out the Disney’s Wide World of Sports schedule, check your surfing skills, play some tennis, or go for a run on one of the many trails in WDW.

 

 

When you can carve out some time away from the parks to pick up those special souvenirs, enjoy a non-chicken-fingers meal, or enjoy some nightlife, Disney World still delivers! Stop by Pleasure Island before its renovation beginning September 27th, 2008 (or visit the revamped version in 2009!); visit our favorite piano bar, Jellyrolls, at the Boardwalk; or fit in some themed dining and shopping at Disney’s Resort Hotels (check next week’s article for more in-depth information about experiencing these amazing resorts!)

 

 

Need some alone time, or perhaps you’ve been eating a few too many desserts? Book an appointment at one of Disney World’s spas or visit your resort’s fitness center.

 

If you find this article helpful and would like more information and resources, be sure to visit the WDW for Grownups Planning Pages.

 

 

 Copyright 2008 :: RollercoasterPro

 

RollercoasterPro has posted a park update from Thorpe Park where Saw: The Ride is well under construction. The Gerstlauer Eurofighter coaster will be themed to the popular movie franchise, Saw. The UK ride will feature a beyond 90 degree drop and a themed indoor section.

View the full update at RollercoasterPro.