The holidays at Universal Orlando Resort are back, and they’re bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever! From November 21, 2025 through January 4, 2026, guests can experience festive fun across the entire destination, from Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure to the brand-new Universal Epic Universe.
Whether you’re sipping hot Butterbeer in Hogsmeade, singing along with the Whos in Seuss Landing, or watching Santa light up the park’s towering Christmas tree, there’s something for everyone to get into the holiday spirit. And this year, seasonal cheer extends into Epic Universe, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic and Celestial Park, bringing holiday magic to an entirely new world.
Holiday Highlights
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Guests can enjoy garlands, dazzling lights, and festive performances in Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, and the new Ministry of Magic location at Epic Universe. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle projection show or a warm cup of seasonal Butterbeer.
Grinchmas in Seuss Landing
Seuss Landing comes alive with The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, daily Grinch meet-and-greets, and the new Who-ville Tree Lot featuring whimsical Seussian trees. It’s the perfect place to step into the pages of Dr. Seuss and celebrate in true holiday style.
Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s
The streets of Universal Studios Florida will once again fill with giant balloons, vibrant floats, and favorite characters from Despicable Me, Shrek, and Madagascar. The parade culminates with a magical lighting of the 80-foot Christmas tree led by Santa himself.
Universal Epic Universe Holiday Décor
For the first time, Epic Universe will shine with seasonal decorations and lighting throughout Celestial Park, setting the stage for unforgettable holiday memories.
Must-Do Add-On Experiences
- The Universal Holiday Tour – Includes reserved seating for shows and the parade, Grinch & Santa meet-and-greets, cookie decorating, and priority attraction access. Pricing starts at $79.99 per person plus tax.
- The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast – A Seussian-inspired breakfast with exclusive character encounters. Prices: $58.99 per adult, $32.99 per child plus tax.
Festivities Beyond the Parks
Universal CityWalk
The Green and Red Coconut Club transforms into the Mistletoe Pines Ski Lodge, featuring festive décor, seasonal cocktails, live entertainment, and appearances by Earl the Squirrel. Guests can also enjoy holiday menu items and treats across CityWalk’s restaurants, including specialty milkshakes at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.
Universal Orlando Hotels
All 11 hotels will feature festive décor, seasonal menus, tree lightings, Hanukkah menorah ceremonies, and strolling carolers. These activities help make your entire holiday stay at Universal Orlando unforgettable.
New Year’s Eve
Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe, CityWalk, and all hotels will host dazzling New Year’s Eve celebrations with fireworks, entertainment, and unforgettable countdown moments.
Quick Reference Table: Holiday Experiences & Add-Ons
| Experience | Location | Dates | Highlights | Add-On Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, Ministry of Magic (Epic Universe) | Nov 21 – Jan 4 | Holiday décor, seasonal performances, hot Butterbeer, Hogwarts Castle projection show | Included with park admission |
| Grinchmas | Seuss Landing, Islands of Adventure | Nov 21 – Jan 4 | Stage show, Grinch meet-and-greet, new Who-ville Tree Lot | Included with park admission |
| Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s | Universal Studios Florida | Nov 21 – Jan 4 | Giant balloons, floats, characters, Santa lighting the 80-foot Christmas tree | Included with park admission |
| Universal Holiday Tour | Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure | Nov 21 – Jan 3 (select dates) | Reserved parade/show seating, Grinch & Santa meet-and-greet, cookie decorating, priority attraction access | $79.99 per person + tax Passholders: $10 discount |
| Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast | Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous, Islands of Adventure | Nov 21 – Jan 4 (select dates) | Seussian-inspired breakfast, character meet-and-greet | $58.99/adult + tax $32.99/child + tax |
| CityWalk Holiday Fun | Universal CityWalk | Nov 21 – Jan 4 | Mistletoe Pines Ski Lodge décor, entertainment, seasonal food & drinks | Included with CityWalk access |
| Universal Orlando Hotels Holiday Festivities | All 11 Universal Orlando Resort Hotels | Nov 21 – Jan 4 | Decorated lobbies, holiday menus, tree lightings, carolers, menorah ceremonies | Included with hotel stay; select events may have additional fees |
| New Year’s Eve Celebrations | Parks, CityWalk & Hotels | Dec 31 | Fireworks, entertainment, countdown festivities | Included with park/hotel access; select premium experiences may be additional |
Universal Orlando Resort has truly outdone itself this holiday season. From wizarding wonders to Whoville mischief, magical décor to festive food and entertainment, there’s no better place to celebrate the holidays in Central Florida. Whether you’re making it a day trip, a multi-day park adventure, or a full resort getaway, there’s magic around every corner waiting to be discovered.