Holiday celebrations at Universal Orlando begin Nov. 17

From the “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” holiday light and projection show in Hogsmeade to larger-than-life balloons during Universal’s Holiday Parade, Universal Orlando Resort guests have plenty to look forward to this holiday season.

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios will both be decked with magical holiday lights and decorations.

In the evening, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” illuminates the iconic Wizarding school with projections highlighting Christmas moments inspired by characters and stories from the “Harry Potter” films.

In addition, the Hogwarts Frog Choir returns to Hogsmeade with a special holiday-themed performance, while the wizarding world’s most popular singing sensation – Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees – performs a seasonal set in Diagon Alley.

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s

The streets of Universal Studios Florida Guests will come alive with colorful floats and larger-than-life balloons featuring characters from “Despicable Me,” “Shrek,” and “Madagascar.”

The popular holiday parade also features hundreds of jolly performers and, of course, a special appearance by Santa and the lighting of the park’s 80-foot Christmas tree.

Grinchmas

Every year, the mean one brings his Grinchmas celebration to Seuss Landing in Universal Islands of Adventure, with whimsical decorations and twisty Christmas trees.

The live retelling of the Dr. Seuss holiday classic in the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” features appearances from the Who-ville Whos and a special photo opp with the Grinch himself.

Mannheim Steamroller

The top-selling holiday artist of all time, Mannheim Steamroller, returns to Universal Studios Florida for live performances on Dec. 2, 3, 9 and 10, 2023.

Universal’s Holiday Tour

This guided tour provides special access to all holiday experiences across the destination, including a meet-and-greet with the Grinch and his dog, Max (including small bites, desserts, and non-alcoholic beverages), reserved seating at the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular,” an exclusive after-hours showing of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” and a meet-and-greet with Santa.

Universal’s Holiday Tour is available on select dates from Nov. 19 through Dec. 30, 2023. Pricing begins at $79.99 per person (plus tax), and separate theme park admission with a 1-Day, 2-Park Park-to-Park ticket is required. Annual and Seasonal Passholders can get a $10 off discount per ticket per passholder with a valid Annual or Seasonal Pass.

Click here to purchase regular tickets. Tickets for passholders can be purchased by calling 1-866-346-9350 or visiting the UOAP Lounge in Universal Islands of Adventure. Regular Seasonal and Power Pass blockout dates apply.

The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast

“The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast” in Confisco Grille in Universal Islands of Adventure offers the chance to start your day on a grinchy note, with a delicious breakfast plus appearances by the Grinch and other favorite Dr. Seuss characters.

The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast takes place on select dates Nov. 17 through Dec. 27, 2023. Prices are $58.99 + tax per adult and $32.99 + tax per child (ages 3-9). Click here to book. Premier and Preferred Annual Passholders can receive a 20% discount on “The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast” for select dates by calling 407-224-7554.

More Holiday Celebrations at Universal Orlando

The holiday celebrations at Universal Orlando continues with seasonal food, beverages, and special entertainment at Universal CityWalk.

In addition, all eight Universal Orlando Resort hotels will be decked with themed décor and offer holiday feasts, including special menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Select hotels also offer seasonal activities, including menorah lighting ceremonies, Christmas tree lightings, and strolling carolers.

Guests can save 20% on a four-night stay in 2-bedroom suites at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites & Surfside Inn and Suites and family suites at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

Special Experiences for Annual Passholders

In addition to discounts on select holiday experiences, Annual Passholders can also enjoy Universal’s Holidays Parade from a viewing area just for Passholders and exclusive merchandise and early access to the Holidays Tribute Store.

Plan a Holly Jolly Getaway

Universal Orlando Resort is offering a special ticket that gives U.S. and Canadian residents two days free with the purchase of a 2-Park 3-Day Ticket. Click here for details.

The Holidays celebration runs daily from Nov. 17 through Dec. 31 at Universal Orlando Resort and from Nov. 24 through Jan. 1, 2024 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Click here for more information about the holiday celebration at Universal Orlando Resort.