Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park

Universal Studios Thanks LA Fire Heroes with Free Park Admission

by Joe Tracy, editor of Theme Park Magazine

Universal Studios Hollywood announced it will provide complimentary theme park admission to first responders who battled the devastating January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. The offer comes as the region begins recovery efforts from what AccuWeather estimates could be the costliest disaster in U.S. history, with damages and economic losses potentially reaching $275 billion.

The “First Responder Heroes Ticket” program runs now through April 10, 2025. It provides eligible active first responders with one free 1-Day General Admission ticket and a 50% discount on up to three additional tickets for guests in their party.

Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Universal Studios Hollywood, highlighted the crucial role first responders played during the crisis. “When these first responders are ready for a much needed break, we look forward to welcoming them to our theme park,” said Strobl.

The gesture follows Universal Studios Hollywood’s own brush with the fires, which forced the theme park and CityWalk to close for two days as the blazes threatened parts of Los Angeles County. The park was concerned foremost with employees affected by the fires. The fires, intensified by hurricane-force Santa Ana winds reaching speeds of up to 100 mph, claimed 29 lives and destroyed more than 16,000 structures across the region.

Eligibility and Redemption Details

Universal Studios Hollywood’s offer extends to U.S.-based active:

  • Firefighters
  • Police Officers
  • Sheriff’s Deputies
  • National Guard members
  • Paramedics
  • Emergency Medical Technicians

To receive the complimentary ticket, eligible first responders must visit the dedicated “First Responder Heroes Ticket” booth at Universal Studios Hollywood’s front gate. A valid government-issued photo ID and current employee ID are required. The offer excludes retired and volunteer first responders.

Tickets must be redeemed in person and are valid only for same-day admission. Online redemption is not available.

Impact of the January 2025 Fires

The two largest blazes – the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire – rank among California’s most destructive wildfires. The Eaton Fire alone destroyed 9,400 buildings in Altadena and Pasadena areas. Morgan Stanley estimates the fires will result in 20,000 to 40,000 lost jobs in January alone.

There have been several fundraisers to help fire victims since the disaster, including a benefit concert by many musical artists. Dubbed FireAid, the six-hour concert last Thursday raised more than $100 million.

Universal Studios Hollywood closed on January 7 and 8, stating “The safety of our team members and our guests is our top priority.” Upon reopening, the park expressed “heartfelt sympathies to those impacted by the recent and ongoing fires, as well as our deepest appreciation to the first responders for their valiant and ongoing efforts during this difficult time.”

The “First Responder Heroes Ticket” program represents one of several initiatives emerging to support both first responders and affected communities as Los Angeles begins its recovery process.

Disney Joins Relief Efforts

The Walt Disney Company has also stepped forward with significant support for the Los Angeles community, committing $15 million to recovery efforts. The company opened its Disneyland Resort hotels to displaced employees, providing temporary housing for at least 100 staff members. At least 64 Disney employees, including senior executives and Imagineers, lost their homes in the fires.

The company’s response includes practical assistance through its Employee Relief Fund, offering up to $4,000 for basic necessities and two months of furnished housing for affected employees. In a unique gesture, Disney opened its movie studio wardrobe department to provide clothing for those who lost everything. Disney CEO Bob Iger has suggested that Walt Disney Imagineers could help design new town centers in impacted areas, stating, “Rebuilding is not just about money. It’s about ingenuity and determination.”

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About Joe Tracy

Joe Tracy, the creator, and editor of Theme Park Magazine, is a lifetime enthusiast of theme parks and immersive experiences. The publication was launched under his leadership on June 1, 2021, as a manifestation of his deep-seated love for all things themed. Joe has amassed over 20 years of expertise in both traditional print and online publishing.

Joe Tracy, editor of Theme Park Magazine
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