Blast of the past: Here’s the full lineup for Universal’s largest daytime parade ever

ORLANDO, Fla. – It’s a year of celebrating blockbuster cinema at Universal Studios Florida as the theme park pays tribute to iconic films of the past.

Universal’s Mega Movie Parade combines 13 brand-new floats, nearly 100 performers, and special effects to create an impressive lineup. It’s the largest daytime parade Universal has ever done. From DreamWorks, to Illumination, to Steven Spielberg’s movie collection, some floats encompass a franchise, while others highlight a specific scene.

“We really wanted it to feel like these movies were leaping off the screen and onto the streets of Universal Studios Florida,” said Michelle Alagna, Show Director of Universal Orlando Resort. “And what better way to do that than to set the mood and the tone with an opening moment?”

The title float of the Mega Movie Parade is reminiscent of the opening credits of a Universal film — sitting in the movie theater and seeing the logo appear with that familiar theme. The entertainment team recommends devoting 40 seconds to the first float that celebrates the past, present, and future of film.

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“Back to the Future”

Speaking of the future, the first big-name film featured is about going back to the future.

While this float isn’t going 88 mph like the DeLorean did in “Back to the Future”, a flux capacitor is providing a sense of power. On board, of course, are star characters Marty McFly and Dr. Emmett “Doc” Brown.

The ground talent is not one to miss as they are leading the way on “hoverboards.”

This film was purposely placed at the beginning to drive home that the parade is taking guests back in time.

“Sing”

Leading off the Illumination entertainment is “Sing”.

Characters like Gunter take center stage while Johnny plays the piano.

Are you ready for a crash course in Minions history?

The “Minions” float is a combination of the first film, and “Minions: The Rise of Gru.”

The float in itself is a big dance party with a Minion DJ and disco skaters.

“Kung Fu Panda”

The DreamWorks phase of the parade leads with the Dragon Warrior.

The “Kung Fu Panda” is expertly decorated featuring Po and other characters.

“Trolls”

Arguably the most colorful portion of the parade, the team behind the Mega Movie Parade wanted to do the “Trolls” float justice by including a giant rainbow covered in glitter.

“Ghostbusters”

Every parade onlooker will be awaiting the coming of Gozer in the Mega Movie Parade.

“Ghostbusters” is the largest parade float Universal has ever built at 36 feet tall. The Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man alone is 16 feet.

The float is a combination of the first film as well as “Ghostbusters: Afterlife”. The float mostly depicts the battle scene between the heroes and the main villain.

“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”

Naturally, there has to be flying on E.T.’s float.

Bikes are in the air and on the ground, and accompanying this scene is the famous “flying theme.”

“Jaws”

What better way to showcase the titular character than on the float attacking the Orca? Perhaps Universal needs a bigger float.

With “Jaws” taking place over the Fourth of July week, there’s a live marching drum line honoring the celebration. Guests may also hear the Amity mayor and Chief Martin Brody argue over the status of the beaches.

“Jurassic Park”

The only way to end a parade that’s mega is by showcasing one of the most epic scenes in cinema.

The “Jurassic Park” float is a combination of the first film as well as “Jurassic World”. The eye-catching feature is the Tyrannosaurus rex’s dominant presence, much like her final scene in “Jurassic Park” as the welcome center banner falls before her.

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