Rock The Universe 2026
Universal Studios Orlando, FL – January 23-24, 2026
Rock the Universe has long been one of those rare events that feels bigger than a concert—something that blends faith, fun, and community into a shared experience that lingers long after the weekend ends. While our coverage of Rock the Universe 2026 didn’t unfold exactly as planned, it ultimately became a powerful reminder that even when circumstances shift, God still meets us right where we are.
Unfortunately, we weren’t able to attend or cover Friday night due to unexpected car issues that surfaced late in the day. While frustrating at the time, those issues were eventually resolved, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in Saturday’s festivities across both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. And thanks to the Rock Your Weekend ticket, the value of the experience was immediately evident—three full days of theme park access from Friday through Sunday, plus both nights of Rock the Universe concerts, all wrapped into one incredible weekend.
We kicked off Saturday morning at Islands of Adventure, starting strong with VelociCoaster. Although the posted wait time hovered between 45 minutes to an hour, we were pleasantly surprised when it turned into just a 15-minute wait—an absolute win for one of Universal’s most popular attractions, even without the single rider line open. What stood out even more than the ride itself, though, was the atmosphere throughout the park. Everywhere we looked, there were Jesus shirts, youth groups, families, and church communities enjoying the day together, creating an energy that made the anticipation for the evening’s concerts even greater.
From there, we made our way toward Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, only to find a nearly three-hour wait. Instead, we opted for the Hogwarts Express, traveling from Islands of Adventure to Universal Studios Florida—one of the many perks of a park-to-park ticket and a must for fans of the Harry Potter franchise.
While Rock the Universe isn’t new territory for us—we covered the event last year as well—being Central Florida locals only reinforces how worth the trip this weekend is for anyone within driving distance. Even missing Friday night, which featured major acts like KB, Switchfoot, and Forrest Frank (along with artists like bodie, Hulvey, and Blessing Offor), the scale and variety of Saturday’s lineup more than delivered.
Once inside Universal Studios Florida, we took in some classic attractions, including the Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, which balances comedy and behind-the-scenes movie magic in a way that’s entertaining even for those who aren’t fans of horror. From there, we rode Revenge of the Mummy—still one of the park’s best coasters—before heading to CityWalk for lunch. With so many options available, we landed on Moe’s for ourselves and Panda Express for the kids, recharging for the long evening ahead.
After lunch, we enjoyed attractions like Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, appreciated the convenience of Universal’s refillable Coke Freestyle cups, and slowed things down with E.T. Adventure and Animal Actors on Location. One especially unique highlight was touring the broadcast center for Z88.3 and HOT 95.9 with our friend Tim Wolf—an incredible behind-the-scenes glimpse into how radio connects with events like Rock the Universe.
As evening approached, it was finally time for the music. Over at the Hollywood stage, Sam Rivera kicked things off, hosted by Tim Wolf and Zoraida from HOT 95.9. Sam’s blend of worship, R&B, and rhythmic influences was a standout, particularly as he shared openly about mental health and his own journey through depression. Songs like “BEAT THE ODDS” and “Yahweh” showcased both vulnerability and hope in a way that resonated deeply.
From there, we headed to the Fan Zone stage, catching the end of Megan Danielle’s set—her southern, country-leaning worship sound immediately drawing comparisons to artists like Anne Wilson. We then found ourselves front row for Bay Turner, a personal highlight. Seeing a friend step onto such a large stage was incredibly special, especially knowing his connections to fellow artists like Jeremy Rosado and Grace Graber. Bay’s soulful, blues-tinged vocals, newer material, and worshipful moments —including songs like “Praise” and “Gratitude”—were a reminder of why his music continues to connect so strongly.
While we enjoyed Bay’s set, others in our group caught Colton Dixon, and later shared how meaningful that experience was. Afterward, we took a much-needed break—pizza, salad, gelato, and a moment to rest—because if there’s one tip for Rock the Universe, it’s this: hydrate, eat, and pace yourself.
Meanwhile, Terrian’s set sparked powerful conversations, including a moving exchange with a single mother whose child found hope through Terrian’s music. Moments like that are a reminder of why music matters—it reaches people where words alone often can’t.
The night reached a powerful peak at the Music Plaza stage with Phil Wickham. Watching thousands of believers lift their voices in worship inside a secular theme park was breathtaking. Songs like “Battle Belongs” echoed far beyond the stage, leaving you to imagine how even park employees and passersby might have been touched by the message of the Gospel in that moment.
Despite the stress and anxiety we’d carried earlier in the weekend due to car troubles, that worship moment felt deeply personal—a reassurance that God sees, knows, and provides.
The weekend closed with Lecrae, whose set seamlessly shifted the atmosphere from worship to Christian hip hop. While the crowd naturally thinned, it allowed for a closer, more intimate experience. From “Tell No Lie” and “Spread the Opps” to throwbacks like “Don’t Waste My Life” and “Jesus Muzik,” Lecrae delivered. “I’ll Find You”—a song that carried deep personal meaning over the past year—was especially powerful, before an encore that included “Broke,” “Walk,” and “Coming In Hot.”
Rock the Universe 2026 truly lived up to its name. It wasn’t just music that rocked—it was faith, testimony, and thousands of people celebrating a God who still moves. Even with challenges along the way, this weekend left us hopeful, grateful, and honored to share the experience.
God is good. And God is great.
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