Universal Orlando dominates the 2025 industry honors with Epic Universe Thea Awards wins, including Best Theme Park, Ministry of Magic, and Monsters Unchained.
It has been a banner year for Universal Orlando Resort, and the accolades are pouring in. The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) has announced the winners of the 2025 Thea Awards—widely considered the Oscars of the themed entertainment industry—and Universal Epic Universe has taken home top honors.
Since opening its portals on May 22, 2025, Epic Universe has redefined immersion. Now, the industry has officially recognized that achievement with four “Outstanding Achievement” awards.
Epic Universe Thea Awards: A Clean Sweep
Universal didn’t just win; they dominated several major categories. The resort secured the highly coveted award for the park itself, alongside specific honors for its groundbreaking attractions and lands.
Here is the breakdown of Universal Epic Universe Thea Awards:
- The Outstanding Achievement – Theme Park: Universal Epic Universe
- Outstanding Achievement – Theme Park Land: How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
- The Outstanding Achievement – Ride Experiences: Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
- Outstanding Achievement – Attraction: Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
This marks a significant milestone for Universal Destinations & Experiences. Epic Universe is now the third Universal park to receive the Outstanding Achievement honor for a limitless theme park project, joining Universal Beijing Resort (2023) and Universal Islands of Adventure (2000).
Lifetime Achievement for a Creative Visionary
The celebration didn’t stop at the attractions. Dale Mason, a former Universal Creative executive, was honored with the prestigious Buzz Price Thea Award for a Lifetime of Outstanding Achievement. Mason, who spent over 25 years with Universal Creative before retiring, was instrumental in developing some of the resort’s most iconic experiences, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay.
A New Standard in Entertainment
Molly Murphy, president of Universal Creative, noted that these awards are a testament to the collaboration between art and technology. “Epic Universe showcases the creativity, innovation and passion of our Universal Creative team,” Murphy said. “These achievements are only possible through deep collaboration with our partners, and these awards celebrate the collective talent and commitment to excellence that brings our shared vision to life.”
Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Orlando Resort, added that seeing guests experience their favorite stories in these new worlds is the ultimate reward. “An endeavor of this scale is only possible through the dedication and expertise of countless individuals across every part of our business,” Irwin stated. “This is a proud moment for our team members who work hard every day to ensure our guests create memories they can cherish for a lifetime.”
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