Hey Thrill Seekers,

I know, I know, we haven’t even made it through Halloween yet, and here I am already bringing up the C word. But let’s face it, planning a holiday to Orlando takes some prep work, whether you’re the go with the flow kind of person or you’re the type who thrives on a excel spreadsheet with 7,000 tabs, detailing everything from what you’re having for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to which Loungefly you’re buying, on what day, at what hour, and from which shop. I decided to put together a blog about what we can expect from Universal Orlando Resort this holiday season that hopefully every type of Orlando holiday-goer will find useful. 🎄

Once the horrors of Jason, Art the Clown, and eerie, lifeless fashion dolls have faded at Universal Studios, the parks transform into a magical winter wonderland you won’t want to miss. From the 21st November 2025, to the 4th January 2026, visitors to Universal Orlando Resort will experience a whimsical atmosphere unlike any other. Garlands decorate the archways, twinkling lights shimmer on palm trees, and holiday music can be heard around every corner.
You may spot a decked out Bluesmobile cruising from Hollywood to New York, Marilyn and the Diamond Bellas putting on a seasonal show at Mel’s Drive-in, the loved Beat Builders busting out some holiday classics and even elves dancing infront of the giant Christmas tree!
Christmas in the Wizarding World, a nightly parade, your fave rides and attractions, Christmas themed gift shops, more festive food than you could ever imagine and of course… GRINCHMAS. What more could you ask for?

Nightly Parade

Starting at 5.30pm every evening from the 21st November – 4th January Universal’s Holiday Parade ft Macy’s will travel over 26 miles through the streets of Universal Studios delighting everyone who experiences it. For years, the creative geniuses at Universal Orlando and Macy’s have partnered to bring larger-than-life parade balloons to the streets of Universal Studios Florida.
Did you know? Some of the balloons weigh around 30,000lbs and measure 35ft! 🫨
A team of nearly 300 – float operators, balloon handlers and parade escorts plus over 100 dancers bring this parade to life. Viewers can expect to see Minions from Illumination’s “Despicable Me,” the characters from DreamWorks Animation’s “Shrek” and “Madagascar” films, plus there’s even a special Florida snowfall for the finale. ❄️

Top Tip – The parade is always a crowd favorite, and the sidewalks get packed as the start time approaches. For everyone’s safety, the parade route is roped off, so be sure to grab snacks and plan bathroom breaks in advance. It’s a good idea to arrive at your chosen viewing spot about 25-30 minutes early.

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you’re in Orlando over the festive period one thing that MUST be top of your list is experiencing Christmas in the Wizarding World and brand new this year – you can experience Christmas in Paris at the Ministry of Magic at Epic Universe! 😍
Seasonal shows and festive decorations in Hogsmeade (Islands of Adventure), Diagon Alley (Universal Studios), and the Ministry of Magic (Epic Universe) create a truly magical Christmas atmosphere.

• The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle – A festive spectacle of light projections and music held every evening from dusk to park close.
• Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees perform their holiday hits like “My Baby Gave Me a Hippogriff for Christmas” in Diagon Alley. 
• The Frog Choir take the stage in Hogsmeade with their classic carols like “Christmas at Hogwarts.” 

Don’t forget to do a spot of Christmas shopping in the Wizarding World – from tree decorations to cosy Hogwarts sweaters there’s a gift suitable for even the Draco Malfoys in your life.

Top Tip – You MUST have a hot Butterbeer. That is all.

Grinchmas

Grinchmas is easily one of the best parts of the holiday season at Universal. Seuss Landing transforms into the whimsical and festive world of Dr. Seuss’s Who-ville, filled with charm and holiday cheer. Hang out with the lively Whos and add some playful snark to your holiday vibe with the Grinch. Soak in the fun and music of The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, and don’t forget to grab a photo with the green grump himself before he steals your Christmas cookies!

The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular – Delight in the hilarious hijinks of the mean, green one himself in a live retelling of the classic tale starring the Grinch, featuring music recorded by Mannheim Steamroller.  Show times: 10:15am, 11:15am, 12:15pm, 1:15pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm (subject to change)

Join the strolling Whos as they spread Who-liday cheer, and don’t miss a chance to meet the mischievous maven himself for a photo op at Honk Honkers, conveniently located right across from Goose Juice Moose Juice.

The viral Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast The mean, green holiday machine is back! Join the Grinch and the Whos for a jolly breakfast bash at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous. Kick off your day with a plateful of festive food and a side of fun that even the Grinch can’t resist. But watch out—this seasonal spectacle only happens on select days and costs a few extra Who-dollars, so snag your spot before it’s gone faster than a roast beast at a Whoville feast!

Christmas Shopping

Christmas Feast-ivities

Time to get out that hideous crimbo sweater and prepare to belt out “Jingle Bells” like the holiday rock star you were born to be at the unforgettable Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort with our Universal Explorer tickets.. Be the first to experience Christmas at Epic Universe with our 3 park Explorer + 1 day Epic tickets.

Drop your festive tips below!  

Smiles included,

Abby