Universal Orlando Resort has shaken off the cobwebs from the spooky season and is decking the halls to celebrate the holidays with the Whos, Harry Potter, and Earl the Squirrel.
This year, Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating the holidays from Nov. 21, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026, with seasonal experiences in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley) as well as a whimsical Who-liday celebration in Islands of Adventure and a festive holiday parade in Universal Studios Florida.
Let’s take a look at the holiday happenings across the resort, including CityWalk, the eleven onsite hotels… and for the first time, Universal Epic Universe.
Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The shops along the streets of Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure are decked out with themed holiday decorations as the magical Wizarding World celebrates the most magical season of all – and don’t forget to grab a Hot Butterbeer while you browse for holiday gifts.
Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter also features special holiday-themed performances in both lands: the Frog Choir in Hogsmeade and international Wizarding World superstar Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees in Diagon Alley.
After dark, The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle light and projection show showcases Christmas moments inspired by the “Harry Potter” films on the façade of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry.
Celebrate Grinchmas with the Mean One Himself
Universal Orlando’s popular Grinchmas celebration features a retelling of the Dr. Seuss holiday classic, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, during the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” live stage show in Islands of Adventure.
Seuss Landing is also dressed for the season in whimsical Who-ville-worthy holiday décor featuring photo ops with the Whos (and You Know Who).
Universal’s Holiday Parade
Everyone loves a parade, and Universal’s Holiday Parade in Universal Studios Florida features holiday floats featuring characters from “Despicable Me,” “Shrek,” and “Madagascar” – along with larger-than-life balloons, just like in New York’s iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
The highlight, of course, is an appearance by Santa and the lighting of the park’s 80-foot Christmas tree.
Holiday Treats
This year, holiday treats include hot chocolate with whipped cream, toasted meringue and a holiday churro covered in white chocolate and sprinkles at Hop on Pop. And be sure to try the holiday themed sugar cookies available at multiple locations during Holidays at Universal.
More Holiday Happenings
During the holiday season, guests can enjoy themed food and beverages, shop for seasonal merchandise from an all-new Holiday Tribute Store, and character meet-and-greets, including the fan-favorite (and unofficial Universal Orlando holiday mascot) Earl the Squirrel.
Universal Holiday Tour (available for an extra cost)
The Universal Holiday Tour is a special, limited time only daytime walking tour with a Grinch meet & greet, reserved show seating and more. Tour check-in begins at 12 p.m.
Tour ticket includes:
- An exclusive meet and greet with the Grinch and his dog, Max
- An exclusive meet and greet photo opportunity with Santa Claus
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Snacks & Beverages, Cookie decorating, light bites, and non-alcoholic beverages (location varies)
- Reserved seating at the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” in Universal Islands of Adventure
- Reserved viewing are for the Universal Holiday Parade
- Priority access to one pre-determined attraction at Universal Studios Florida (subject to change)
The Universal Holiday Tour is available on select dates, and pricing begins at $89.99 per person plus tax (ages 3+), and separate theme park admission with a 2-Park Park-to-Park ticket is required.
The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast (available for an extra cost)
Start your day the “Grinchy” way with a character breakfast featuring the Grinch and other characters from Seuss Landing. The plated breakfast includes items like Green Eggs and Ham and Cindy-Lou Who’s Belgian Waffles
The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast takes place at Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous in Universal Islands of Adventure on select dates. Prices are $58.99 plus tax per adult ages 10+ and $32.99 (plus tax) per child ages 3-9.
Holiday Celebrations at Universal Orlando Hotels
All eleven Universal Orlando Resort hotels will feature festive décor and special menus for the holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s – including Christmas tree lightings, Chanukah menorah lighting ceremonies, strolling carolers, and more.
Celebrate the Season at Universal CityWalk
Access to all in-park festivities is included with regular admission to the theme parks, but did you know you can celebrate the holidays at Universal Orlando Resort even if you don’t have a theme park ticket? It’s true!
Select CityWalk venues will be offering special holiday entertainment and menu offerings, including:
- Live entertainment and themed holiday cocktails in The Green & Red Coconut Club at Red Coconut Club
- A festive meet and greet with Earl the Squirrel at CityWalk Plaza on select dates
- Assorted seasonal food and beverages at participating CityWalk restaurants
To find out what’s happening for the holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood, check out our guide:
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Let’s Hear From You 🎄
Are you ready to trade in those Halloween haunts for holiday cheer at Universal Orlando Resort? Which festive experience has you counting down the days? Is it the magical snowfall in the Wizarding World, the merry mayhem of the Holiday Parade, or perhaps the green grin of Grinchmas? Share your holiday wishes, and let us know what you’re most excited for in the comments below! 🎅🎁
