Universal Destinations & Experiences is preparing to celebrate the upcoming release of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie with a slate of limited-time experiences across its parks, including a special appearance from one of Nintendo’s most beloved characters. As part of the celebration, Yoshi will take center stage at Epic Universe inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Orlando Resort.
The new offering will run from March 10 through April 13, 2026, coinciding with MAR10 Day festivities and building excitement ahead of the film’s worldwide release on April 1, 2026.
Universal Studios Hollywood will also participate in the event.
Epic Universe Yoshi Meet and Greet Announced
According to Universal’s official announcement, Yoshi will participate in a limited-time meet-and-greet experience inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Epic Universe.
The character interaction will serve as a centerpiece of the promotion celebrating Nintendo and Illumination’s upcoming animated film.
NEW: Universal Studios Hollywood shared a first look at Yoshi. The character meet and greet is exclusive to Universal Fan Fest Nights being held on select nights April 25 – May 18. pic.twitter.com/OgrrS6o9AB
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) April 22, 2025
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The experience launches on MAR10 Day (March 10) and will continue daily through April 13, giving guests several weeks to encounter the character during the promotional event.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has quickly become one of the most popular themed lands in Universal’s parks, immersing guests in the colorful Mushroom Kingdom through interactive environments, character encounters, and attractions inspired by the Super Mario franchise.
Universal Experiences CEO Mark Woodbury and Mario/Donkey Kong Creator Shigeru Miyamoto in Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe – Photo Credit: NBC Universal
Yoshi, who first appeared in Super Mario World in 1990, has remained one of Nintendo’s most recognizable characters and serves as a key companion to Mario throughout the franchise.
Movie-Inspired Food Arriving at Epic Universe
In addition to the Epic Universe Yoshi meet-and-greet, Universal will introduce several themed food offerings tied to the film.
Princess Rosalina after dispatching an enemy in the Super Mario Galaxy Movie – YouTube, Nintendo of America
Among the specialty items announced are:
- Rosalina Cupcake – a blue velvet cupcake filled with blueberry cheesecake and lemon buttercream, topped with a chocolate crown and star
- Galaxy Popcorn – multicolored berry-flavored popcorn with edible glitter
Both items will be available at select dining locations inside Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Epic Universe.
The themed desserts are designed to reflect the cosmic setting of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which expands the Mario franchise into a larger interstellar adventure.
Exclusive Merchandise Inspired by the Film
Universal will also introduce limited-time merchandise tied to the film’s release.
One of the most notable items will be interactive Luma shoulder pals, inspired by the star-like companions featured in the Super Mario Galaxy games.
Brand new interactive shoulder pals inspired by the Lumas from the film will be available in blue and yellow. Each one lights up, makes sounds, and even interacts with other Lumas when they’re near each other. @UniStudios pic.twitter.com/fCHpONHrs4
— Christian (@Chrisindaparks) March 5, 2026
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The shoulder pals will be available in blue and yellow versions, and Universal says the interactive items will feature light and sound effects that allow them to communicate with each other when placed close together.
The collectible merchandise is expected to become a popular souvenir for visitors exploring SUPER NINTENDO WORLD during the promotional window.
Galactic Photo Opportunities at Universal CityWalk
The celebration will extend beyond the theme parks themselves.
Both Universal CityWalk Orlando and Universal CityWalk Hollywood will feature a themed photo opportunity inspired by The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.
Bowser Jr. in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie – YouTube, Nintendo of America
The installation will allow guests to pose inside a galactic tunnel-style setting, designed to resemble the cosmic environments featured in the film.
Universal says the experience is intended to create shareable photo moments for fans visiting the resort during the promotional event.
Fans Can Watch the Film at Universal CityWalk
Visitors will also be able to watch the film directly at Universal’s entertainment complexes.
Yoshi, Toad, and Mario and Luigi in the Super Mario Galaxy Movie Trailer – YouTube, Nintendo of America
Beginning April 1, guests can catch The Super Mario Galaxy Movie at:
- Universal Cinema at Universal CityWalk Hollywood
- Universal Cinemark at Universal CityWalk Orlando
The film is produced by Nintendo and Illumination and will be distributed worldwide by Universal Pictures.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Continues Expanding at Epic Universe
The addition of Yoshi to Epic Universe as part of this promotional event highlights Universal’s ongoing investment in Nintendo-themed experiences.
Universal Experiences CEO Mark Woodbury and Mario/Donkey Kong Creator Shigeru Miyamoto in Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe – Photo Credit: NBC Universal
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD first debuted in Japan before expanding to Universal Studios Hollywood. The version which opened at Universal Epic Universe in Orlando last year represents the largest and most technologically advanced version of the land yet, bringing interactive gameplay elements, themed attractions, and character encounters to the new park.
With the arrival of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and special character appearances like Yoshi, Universal appears poised to further connect its theme park offerings with Nintendo’s growing presence in film and entertainment.
Will you meet Yoshi in Epic Universe? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
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