Feeling Festive – Holidays at Universal Orlando
Universal Parks and Resorts have a laundry list of holiday offerings that won’t cost you a penny extra.
Florida may not always be the first destination that comes to mind when you think about the holiday season, but it should certainly make the short list.
At Universal Orlando Resort, late November brings garland, tinsel, caroling and surprises around every corner. The parks come alive with seasonal light shows and characters outfitted in their festive best, alongside live performances sure to put you into the holiday spirit.
This year, the holidays come to Universal Orlando from November 22 – December 31, and we’re collecting our top reasons you should add it to your calendar.
First and foremost, soaking up the season at Universal Orlando won’t cost you extra.
Holiday festivities are included with your theme park ticket or annual pass, so all you need to do is decide what you’d like to do, and when. We’d recommend planning to be in the parks during the evening hours for certain activities, but there’s plenty to see and do during the day, as well.
And while you don’t have to stay on property to take part, guests of select onsite hotels receive additional perks like early and/or late park access, complimentary transportation and Universal Express Unlimited to skip the line at your favorite attractions.
Holiday Parade
Fresh off of Thanksgiving Day, Universal Orlando hosts a holiday parade featuring Macy’s, with larger-than-life balloons celebrating beloved characters from Despicable Me, Shrek and more. We look forward to seeing the gingerbread men and Christmas train float by, and of course the big man himself, Santa Claus perched on his North Pole sleigh.
Grinchmas
Seuss Landing turns up the whimsy, with oodles of holiday decor and the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular starring the Grinch. This live stage show tells the story of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and will have you singing along with the lovable green goofball.
We’re still waiting on more details, but hope to see the return of Breakfast with the Grinch. This reservation-based character breakfast has become a popular way to meet the Grinch himself for a festive photo.
Holidays in the Wizarding World
Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade get a magical makeover of garlands, baubles and twinkle lights for you to enjoy as you stroll the cobblestones and sip your Butterbeer!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has solidified its place on our must-visit list during the holidays. We can’t wait to see live performances from the Frog Choir, Celestine Warbeck and the Banshees, and wrap it all up with a festive light show on the Hogwarts Castle.
Decor
Holiday decorations warm our spirits anywhere, but it’s especially charming to see our favorite theme parks dress up for the season. Plus, the resorts at Universal Orlando join in the fun with trimmed trees, cozy lights and crackling fireplaces.
If you’re like us and fall for the romance of New York City at Christmastime, be sure to check out the streets of New York at Universal Studios. Tinsel-topped marquee lights and Rockefeller-worthy Christmas trees will transport you to the Big Apple, especially after the sun goes down.
Extras
Seasonal menu items can be found across the parks, resorts and CitiWalk. We can already smell the peppermint and cinnamon treats tickling our senses… with the added bonus that calories don’t count on vacation.
If you’re more interested in the longer-lasting souvenirs, head over to Port of Entry Christmas Shoppe at Islands of Adventure or the Park Plaza Shop at Universal Studios for holiday-themed merchandise to bring home. Plus, if you’re staying on property, you can have your souvenirs sent to your hotel room at no additional cost.
Lastly, keep your eyes peeled as you stroll around the parks. Characters will be decked out in holiday costumes, ready for hugs and photo ops before heading to your next attraction.
We’re excited to hear more details as the holiday season draws closer. Stay tuned as we find out more and reach out to our agents to get started.
