Are you stuck trying to find a gift for a Univeral Studios fan or a movie lover? Well, Universal Orlando Resort has an online store and I’ve curated a sampling of their merchandise that would make fantastic gifts for everyone on your list. Best of all, you can buy it all from the cozy comfort of your home. This shopping guide covers a variety of different Universal Studios properties and, of course, includes Earl the Squirrel.
Wait, Who is Earl the Squirrel?
For those who don’t know about the Earl the Squirrel character seen on a number of Universal Orlando’s holiday merchandise, he actually spawned from a real squirrel that decided to live in the park’s largest Christmas tree one year. The critter was discovered by workers, who were quite startled by the little guy’s presence. He later became a sort of holiday icon for the theme park, with a plush squirrel placed in the tree every year since. Earl the Squirrel now enjoys a full range of holiday merchandise to call his own.
Apparel
Earl the Squirrel Adult Raglan T-Shirt ($35)
Theme park trivia buffs or those who frequently visit Universal Orlando will definitely get a kick out of this adult raglan tee. The graphics on the chest and the back both pay homage to Earl the Squirrel. The backside also includes nods to other Universal icons, like E.T. and Woody Woodpecker.
Universal Studios Varsity Adult Hooded Sweatshirt ($57)
The classic look of this varsity hoodie will appeal to those who want to be more subtle in wearable fandom. Features include a lined drawstring hood, handwarmer pockets, varsity stripes on the sleeves, a screen-printed “US” on the chest, and a “Universal Studios” patch on the hem.
Jurassic World T.Rex Encounter Adult Hooded Sweatshirt ($55)
This pullover hoodie is the best thing to wear to prepare for a potential run-in with a Tyrannosaurus Rex. The front has graphics depicting the dino in question with claw prints running up the left sleeve. On the back are tips on how to survive should such an encounter occur, like “avoid the urge to run.”
Optimus Prime Costume Youth Hooded Sweatshirt ($57)
With a concealed mesh “mask” combined with the reflective accents in the design, this zippered hoodie enables younger Transformers fans to cosplay as Optimus Prime. It also has two side pockets because even Autobots need to keep their hands warm sometimes.
Gidget “Yes, I am Adorable” Youth Hooded Sweatshirt ($45)
Gidget from The Secret Life of Pets is so adorable that she gets her own kid-sized zippered hoodie. Along with a small graphic of the pomeranian on the chest, the back has a large image of Gidget along with “Yes, I am this adorable” in sequin lettering. Other attractive touches include contrast stitching on the handwarmer pockets and hood as well as a colorful printed lining for the hood.
Ornaments
Universal Studios Retro Kongfrontation Ornament ($18)
This disc ornament has an “old school” feel, with vintage-style art of King Kong and the retro Universal Studios marquee logo. This would make a thoughtful gift for those who have been visiting Universal for many years.
Yule Ball Ornaments ($21.95 each) – Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Ginny Weasley, Viktor Krum, and Fleur Delacour
There are plenty of unique and downright beautiful ornaments to be found on the Universal Orlando online store but the most clever of the designs are likely the ones made to resemble the outfit worn by Harry Potter and company at the Yule Ball. These 6-inch tall ornaments beautifully recreate each outfit’s details. This is especially clear in Ron, Hermione, and Ginny’s ornaments. But no matter which ornament (or ornaments) you select, they are sure to be an eye-catching fixture on your tree.
Toys
Despicable Me Unicorn Pillow Plush ($34.95)
This Unicorn Pillow Plush is, indeed, “so fluffy!” Not only that, it is pretty darn big, measuring 22-inches tall. The design is striking, with different lengths of the pile in the fabric and a shiny golden horn. And that silly face simply stares into your soul.
Fang Plush ($29.95)
For the aspiring wizard or witch who already has a roomful of owls, this Fang Plush is an adorable (and huggable) gift option. The stuffed version of Hagrid’s canine companion measures 13.5-inches tall and is made of buttery-soft velour fabric. I absolutely adore mine.
Other Fun Gifts
Chocolate Frogs 4-Pack ($49.95)
Chocolate Frogs are perhaps the most memorable magical snack (Butterbeer is also a contender). Made of solid milk chocolate, each Chocolate Frog weighs 5.3 ounces and comes with a collectible Wizard Card, both packaged together in a lovely, film-accurate box. While the character on the included Wizard Card is typically random, this 4-pack is guaranteed to include all four founders of the Hogwarts Houses: Godric Gryffindor, Salazar Slytherin, Helga Hufflepuff, and Rowena Ravenclaw.
Funko POP! by Loungelfy Minions Fluffy Unicorn Mini Backpack ($82)
The Fluffy Unicorn from Despicable Me is reimagined in Funko’s POP! figure style then transformed into Loungefly Mini Backpack. This sweet accessory includes adjustable shoulder straps, a front zippered compartment, a larger main compartment, and two small pockets on the sides. The interior has a rainbow print lining. This bag would make a colorful gift for kids and adults alike.
Universal Studios Earl the Squirrel Drawstring Backpack ($30)
Aside from being another great way to work Earl the Squirrel into your holiday shopping, this drawstring backpack would be great to hide smaller gifts in. Alternatively, you can simply use it as it was intended. The backpack features adjustable straps, a drawstring top, and a zippered pocket inside.
Recommended Reading
If you are visiting Universal Studios Hollywood this holiday season, there is plenty of themed merchandise (and more!) to look forward to. Read the recent Universal Studios Hollywood Merchandise Update here:
Universal Studios Hollywood Merchandise Update: Ho, Ho, Hollywood!
Merry and Bright Theme Park Ticket and Travel Deals
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Let’s Hear from You
Are there items from this gift guide that you plan to add to your shopping list? Which ones? Let us know in the comments! And Happy Holidays!