Universal Orlando Resort is gearing up for one of its biggest holiday seasons yet, spreading festive cheer across all four theme parks — including the new Universal Epic Universe — from November 21, 2025, through January 4, 2026. This year’s event promises a destination-wide celebration filled with dazzling décor, fan-favorite shows, and immersive holiday experiences for visitors of all ages.
A Destination-Wide Holiday Celebration
Guests can expect to see holiday decorations throughout the resort, with seasonal magic extending into select worlds at Universal Epic Universe for the first time. Both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure will once again transform into winter wonderlands featuring returning classics such as Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s.
Alongside these experiences, guests can enjoy special menu items, seasonal merchandise, and new premium add-ons like The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast and the Universal Holiday Tour, both of which return with expanded offerings this year.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Expands Its Holiday Magic
For 2025, the holiday celebration across the Wizarding World expands to three lands: Hogsmeade (Islands of Adventure), Diagon Alley (Universal Studios Florida), and — for the first time ever — the Ministry of Magic at Epic Universe.
Guests can enjoy holiday-themed performances from the Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, festive décor throughout the lands, and a hot Butterbeer to ward off the winter chill. The signature nighttime show, The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle, will once again light up the skies with projections and special effects inspired by the Harry Potter films.
Grinchmas Returns with Wholiday Cheer
The beloved Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular returns to Seuss Landing, offering a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’ classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Grinch himself will meet guests daily at Honk Honkers, while Whos from Who-ville fill the land with laughter, carols, and holiday spirit.
A new addition for 2025 — the Who-ville Tree Lot — will display whimsical trees inspired by favorite Seuss characters, adding to the area’s festive charm.
Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s
The annual Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s will once again take over the streets of Universal Studios Florida, with massive balloons, floats, and characters from Despicable Me, Shrek, and Madagascar. The parade culminates in a spectacular lighting ceremony for the park’s 80-foot-tall Christmas tree, led by Santa Claus himself.
New Holiday Experiences at Universal Epic Universe
For the first time, Universal’s newest park, Epic Universe, will join the celebration. Guests entering Celestial Park will find the area glowing with seasonal lighting and decorations inspired by the park’s astronomical and mythological design.
In addition, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will receive its own holiday treatment, blending magical theming with festive touches unique to the new land.
Premium Holiday Add-Ons
The Universal Holiday Tour will offer guided access to the best seasonal attractions, including reserved parade viewing, exclusive meet-and-greets with The Grinch, Santa Claus, and Max the dog, and priority entry to select rides. Tickets start at $79.99 per person (plus tax).
The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast, hosted at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous, will return November 21 through January 4. The themed menu includes Green Eggs & Ham Quiche and Betty Lou Who Pancakes, priced at $58.99 for adults and $32.99 for children (plus tax).
CityWalk and Resort Hotel Festivities
At Universal CityWalk, the Red Coconut Club transforms into the Green & Red Coconut Club, this year themed as the Mistletoe Pines Ski Lodge, featuring festive cocktails, live music, and appearances from Earl the Squirrel. Guests can also indulge in seasonal treats from Bigfire, VIVO Italian Kitchen, and The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.
Meanwhile, all 11 Universal Orlando Resort hotels will host holiday buffets, menorah lightings, and Christmas tree ceremonies, along with special menus and live entertainment.
A Dazzling New Year’s Celebration
Universal will ring in 2026 with spectacular New Year’s Eve parties across its theme parks, CityWalk, and resort hotels. Details will be announced closer to the event date.
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