Theme park news round-up - 31st October 2012

Construction work on LEGOLAND Japan is set to begin ahead of the park's planned debut in 2016.

There's no doubting today's big news - Disney's $4.05 billion purchase of LucasFilm, which gives it control of the Star Wars franchise. While many fans will be excited about the prospect of a new movie in the series every 2-3 years, we're most interested in the potential for Disney to bolster its theme park line-up with further Star Wars creations. Elsewhere, LEGOLAND Japan has been greenlighted for 2016, while Universal Studios Japan has welcomed its 100 millionth guest.

Disney buys LucasFilm

Disney has acquired Star Wars creator LucasFilm for $4.05 billion, and will release a seventh movie in the franchise in 2015. Further movies will follow every 2-3 years, and there is of course the tantalising prospect of new Star Wars-themed attractions at the company's theme parks around the globe.

Full story: Theme Park Tourist

Universal Studios Florida

Inside the Magic takes an in-depth look at Horror Unearthed, a free game that was on offer at Universal Studios Florida throughout the Halloween Horror Nights 2012 events.

Full story: Inside the Magic

Oakwood

Wales' leading theme park will host a musical Halloween event on November 3. Local band Fasta Benj will be the stars, and will perform a full set as well as appearing in costume to scare guests on the park's Spooky 3D ride.

Full story: UK Park News

LEGOLAND Japan

Merlin Entertainments Group has finalised a deal with the Nagoya Municipal Government to build a new LEGOLAND Japan theme park in the city. The park will cover 10 hecrates on the Kinjo Pier, and is now expected to open in 2016 (and not 2015 as originally hoped). Expect the park to feature the same basic elements as the existing LEGOLAND parks, including a range of rides, shows and exhibits aimed at families with children aged 2-12.

Full story: Kyodo News

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan hit a major milestone on Monday, October 29, as the park welcomed its 100 millionth guest. The park opened its gates in March 2001, pulling in 11 million visitors during its first year in operations. While visitor numbers have fallen from those initial highs, the park has continued to expand, with additions such as The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman in 2004 and Hollywood Dream: The Ride in 2007.

Full story: Japan Today

Disneyland Resort Paris

Disney and More takes a look at construction progress on Ratatouille at Walt Disney Studios, as well as updates at neighbouring Disneyland Paris.

Full story: Disney and More