Universal Orlando Resort’s holidays celebration begins Nov. 17
Merriment, mischief and fun await as Universal Orlando prepares for its annual holidays celebration, starting Nov. 17.

Guests will be able to sip hot Butterbeer as they watch “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” meet The Grinch, and more. On New Year’s Eve, families can ring in 2019 with a New Year’s celebration at Universal Studios Florida, while adults ages 21 and up can party in style at the EVE celebration at Universal CityWalk.
Check out the full details on holidays at Universal Orlando below:
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will transform into a winter wonderland with themed decorations, garlands, and lights throughout the streets of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Guests can enjoy holiday-themed performances from the Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. Plus, seasonal food and beverages will be available, including the fan-favorite, hot Butterbeer.
As day turns to night, guests can witness a projection of holiday magic as Christmas moments inspired by the Wizarding World come to life on Hogwarts castle with “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.”
Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s
Santa Claus, the Minions, Shrek, and characters from Madagascar will take to the streets for Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s – including over 30 larger-than-life balloons and floats, hundreds of performers, dancers and more. Guests may also have the chance to dance and interact with some fo the characters during special appearances before the parade.
Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
See the mean, green one in the flesh (fur?) during Grinchmas at Universal Orlando. Guests can enjoy the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular,” a live retelling of the classic holiday story, as well as special appearances by the Who’s of Who-ville throughout Seuss Landing.
Guests can also join the Grinch and friends at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous for a separately-ticketed character breakfast on select dates.
Mannheim Steamroller at Universal Studios Florida
Mannheim Steamroller is back at Universal Orlando to fill the air with the sounds of the holiday season. Guests can experience live concerts at the Music Plaza Stage on Nov. 17-18 and 24-25, and Dec. 1-2, 8-9, and 15-16.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Guests can ring in 2019 with various New Year’s Eve celebrations throughout the resort.
Universal Studios Florida will host its largest New year’s celebration yet, offering party zones at the Music Plaza Stage and Central Park areas, live music, character appearances, party favors, confetti, and pyrotechnics. This event is included with regular theme park admission.
Guests ages 21 and up can enjoy upscale festivities with EVE at Universal CityWalk. There, they’ll get access to six CityWalk clubs with live bands and DJs, unlimited gourmet cuisine, and the chance to dance all night long on Orlando’s largest outdoor dance floor. When the clock strikes midnight, guests can enjoy a champagne toast and a pyrotechnics display. Tickets for EVE are on sale now.
Some of Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels will also be taking part in the fun, with entertainment, midnight toasts, and more. Guests can enjoy a “ROCK-in!” New Year’s event at the Hard Rock Hotel, with a balloon drop and live countdown from Times Square via satellite; as well as Jake’s “Best of 2018” Beer Dinner at Loews Royal Pacific Resort.
To learn more about holiday and New Year’s Eve celebrations at Universal Orlando Resort, visit UniversalOrlando.com/Holidays.
