As the Florida air [finally] turns crisp and the days grow shorter, the enchanting holiday season returns to Universal Orlando Resort, wrapping the parks in a warm, festive glow. From twinkling lights throughout the streets of Universal Studios, Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, and Seuss Landing, to the iconic Holiday Parade, picking up a seasonal treat, taking in a wintery show at Hogwarts Castle, and meeting the Grinch himself, there’s a true sense of holiday cheer in the air. Get ready to make some merry memories at Universal as they transform into a winter wonderland… and it’s all included in your park admission!
Universal Orlando’s resort-wide celebration of the holiday season returns November 22nd through December 31st, here’s an overview of everything happening!
Christmas in The Wizarding World
Where? Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida and Hogesmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure
What?
- Festive décor throughout both lands, including twinkling lights, themed wreaths and garland
- Enjoy special holiday performances from the Frog Choir in Hogsmeade and Celestina Warbeck & the Banshees in Diagon Alley
- The holiday-exclusive Hogwarts Castle projection show The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle plays nightly in Hogsmeade from dusk to park close
And don’t forget to grab a Hot Butterbeer to sip and savor!
Grinchmas
Where? Universal Islands of Adventure
What?
- Enjoy a live retelling of How the Grinch Stole Christmas in the beloved stage show Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular
- Seuss Landing becomes home to Who-ville with whimsical holiday décor and special appearances from the Whos
- Character photo opportunities with the mean-one himself – the Grinch
Universal’s Holiday Parade, Tribute Store, & More!
Where? Universal Studios Florida
What?
- Beloved stories and characters from Illumination’s Despicable Me, DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar – along with cherished holiday traditions – come to life as colorful holiday floats, characters, roaming performers, and enormous balloons floating high above in Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s
- Capping off the parade is Santa Claus aboard his sleigh, and the magnificent lighting of the 80-foot Christmas tree within the Hollywood area of the park
- Shop an all-new immersive Holiday Tribute Store (an attraction in of itself!) filled with seasonal merchandise collections and treats
- Meet and greet favorite characters dressed in their holiday best, including Earl the Squirrel, the Mystery Machine gang in Hollywood, SpongeBob & friends at SpongeBob Storepants, and more!
Holiday Add-On Experiences
For an additional cost, the Universal Holiday Tour offers a guided journey through popular holiday experiences across the resort, including:
- An exclusive meet and greet with the Grinch and his faithful dog Max;
- Small plates, delectable desserts and non-alcoholic beverages in Universal Studios Florida;
- Reserved seating at the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” in Universal Islands of Adventure;
- An exclusive meet and greet photo opportunity with Santa Claus in Universal Studios Florida;
- An after hours showing of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle;”
- Priority access to Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast (subject to change and based on availability).
The Universal Holiday Tour is available on select dates beginning November 25 through December 29, 2024. Pricing begins at $79.99 per person (plus tax) and separate theme park admission is required.
Or start your day alongside the Grinch and other favorite Seuss characters while dining on a delicious themed-breakfast at The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast at Islands of Adventure.
- The plated breakfast takes place in Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous on select dates beginning November 22 through December 30 for $58.99 + tax per adult and $32.99 + tax per child (ages 3-9).
But Wait, There’s More! | Hotels & CityWalk
- Enjoy Universal’s eight resort hotels; each of which will be decked out with festive décor for the season. Special menus will be offered for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s and guests can join in on holiday celebrations, including Christmas tree lightings, Hannukah menorah lighting ceremonies, strolling carolers and more
- Take in live entertainment and themed holiday cocktails at The Green & Red Coconut Club, returning to CityWalk’s Red Coconut Club
- Earl the Squirrel will be meeting guests during select dates from November 29 – December 28 at CityWalk Plaza
- Seasonal menus at Bigfire, Vivo Italian Kitchen and a seasonal milkshake at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium will also be available
Phew, there’s a lot ho-ho-happening at Universal Orlando Resort this holiday season. I can’t wait to kick things off with a Hot Butterbeer and explore the Holiday Tribute Store. If you haven’t already been convinced, Universal has some pretty amazing vacation package deals including a free dining card, and it’s valid throughout the holiday season! That means you can enjoy all the exclusive holiday meals and treats you want throughout the destination for FREE.
