Universal Hollywood Holidays 2025: Potter Spells, Grinchy Laughs & Mario Merriment

Harry Potter and the Grinch deck the Universal Studios Hollywood halls along with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach who join in the seasonal celebration from Nov. 24, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026.

From Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Grinchmas, let’s see what Universal has planned for the holidays.

Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Hogsmeade Village has once again been adorned with twinkling lights, themed garlands, and cheerful wreaths as the magical holiday season arrives in the Wizarding World.

Also returning are a cappella performances of Christmas carols by the Frog Choir and a special menu of holiday fare at Three Broomsticks.

After dark, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” light and projection show illuminates Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with seasonal images accompanied by music from the Harry Potter movies. It’s a short but very charming show that shouldn’t be missed. 

Watch “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” here:

Of course, you’ll also find some warm and wonderful Wizarding World holiday merchandise. Including a new line of Hogwarts Castle inspired items.

Grinchmas

Once again, Universal Plaza has been transformed into the whimsical town of Who-ville for the park’s Grinchmas celebration, including photo ops with the Grinch and his dog Max, story time with Cindy-Lou Who, and musical performances by a Who-inspired doo-wop singing quartet.

This is also a great spot to snag a snack. You’ll find a Who-bilicious treat stand in the Universal Plaza, offering festive baked goods and creative drinks. 

And, a quick trip to Who-mingdales will help you fit in with Cindy Lou Who and the other locals.  

When in Whoville, don’t miss your opportunity to meet the big green guy himself… he’s not as bad as he’s made out to be. But he does know how to ham it up for the cameras. 

Guests can also stop by the Who-ville post office to mail postcards sharing three good deeds, make paper ornaments to hang on one of the area’s many Grinchmas trees (or take home for their own tree), sample Who-licious sweet treats, and purchase seasonal Grinchmas gear.

The 65-foot-tall Grinchmas tree at the heart of Who-ville is decorated with hundreds of colorful ornaments and thousands of LED lights. The iconic “topsy-turvy” tree is the spot for Who-tacular tree-lighting ceremonies accompanied by a wintry snowfall.

Holidays in Super Nintendo World

The holiday celebration in the Mushroom Kingdom includes festive decorations, a tree with (what else?) a Super Star topper, and a photo op with snowmen dressed in red and green, just like Mario and Luigi.

You’ll be able to dress the part by visiting the Universal stores in CityWalk, the front of the park, or within Super Nintendo World. 

Guests can also enjoy seasonal treats at Toadstool Cafe.

Universal Merriment

Aside from the 3 big celebration zones in the park, you’ll find festive decor, food, and holiday merchandise themed to many more popular characters and areas in Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk. 

The Despicable Me characters and lovable minions get in on the act. 

You’ll find items that help you “Shrek the Halls.” 

Hello Kitty meets guests in a festive outfit. 

And there’s holiday sparkle from one end of the park to the other. 

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