Universal Orlando Resort has officially unveiled its slate of destination-wide events and seasonal celebrations for 2026, giving guests an early look at a year packed with festivals, limited-time offerings, and special experiences across the parks, hotels, and Universal CityWalk. The announcement comes with the launch of the Universal Orlando Events and Experiences Guide, helping visitors plan vacations that go beyond the rides.
Seasonal events will once again anchor the year. Rock the Universe returns to Universal Studios Florida on January 23 and 24, bringing Florida’s largest Christian music festival back for a weekend of live performances. Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval follows from February 7 through April 4, featuring colorful floats, bead tossing, live concerts on select nights, and a global lineup of food inspired by New Orleans and beyond.
Halloween Horror Nights marks a major milestone in 2026 as the event celebrates its 35th anniversary. The world-famous haunt runs on select nights from August 28 through November 1, promising a new lineup of haunted houses, scare zones, live entertainment, and themed food and drinks. More details are expected closer to the event.
The holiday season takes over Universal Orlando from November 14 through January 3. Guests can look forward to Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, festive décor across all 11 on-site hotels, and New Year’s Eve celebrations at the parks and CityWalk.
Limited-time offerings tied to the 25th anniversary of the first Harry Potter film will appear throughout the year in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. These include Butterbeer Season from March 1 to May 31, Back to Hogwarts from August 1 to September 1, and the return of Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle later in the year.
Passholder Appreciation Days run August 15 through September 30, while Universal CityWalk and on-site hotels will host their own lineup of themed parties, live music, dining events, and volunteer opportunities throughout 2026. Universal says more details will be shared as the year approaches, so stay tuned.
