Theme park news round-up - 3rd December 2012

The opening of Grizzly Gulch has helped Hong Kong Disneyland pull in large numbers of new visitors.

Of all the major new attractions that have been announced for 2013, SeaWorld Orlando's Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin is perhaps one of the most innovative and intriguing. Construction work is progressing well, and new photos offer a great overall view of the site. Meanwhile, Cars Land is celebrating its first Christmas at Disney California Adventure, and Hong Kong Disneyland's ambitious expansion appears to be paying off.

Dollywood / Nashville

Country music superstar Dolly Parton has revealed that she is still considering building an attraction in Nashville, after plans for a water and snow park were dropped.

Full story: Theme Park Tourist

SeaWorld Orlando

Orlando United has some impressive aerial images of the construction site for Antarctica: Empire on the Penguin, which will open at SeaWorld Orlando in 2013. The attraction has been billed by the park as "the world's coldest theme park ride", and will use a trackless ride system similar to that employed by Pooh's Hunny Hunt at Tokyo Disneyland. This will enable some elements to change each time a guest rides it, with the park promising that the Antarctica ride will offer a different experience every time.

Full story: Orlando United

Epcot

Cast Member previews of the revamped Test Track - Presented by Chevrolet are continuing, ahead of its official debut on December 6. Orlando Attractions Magazine offers an excellent side-by-side comparison of the new ride experience versus the original.

Full story: Orlando Attractions Magazine

Disney California Adventure

Cars Land is celebrating its first Christmas, following its successful debut in the summer. The official video below offers a look at the Cars-themed decorations that are currently lighting up the area.

Full story: Disney Parks Blog

Hong Kong Disneyland

A boost in the number of visitors from mainland China has reportedly enabled the rapidly-expanding Hong Kong Disneyland to turn a profit for the first time since its debut seven years ago. The resort is yet to release its official financial results.

Full story: Wall Street Journal