Celebrate the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

It’s time for holiday fun at Universal Orlando Resort.

Celebrate the festive season in Florida this year, and immerse yourself in all the Christmas and New Year’s Eve happenings at Universal Orlando Resort.

The holiday season has officially kicked off at Universal Orlando Resort, running from November 12th all the way through to January 1st. And this year there’s so much for guests to enjoy across the parks and hotels too.

Universal Studios Florida

Diagon Alley and the streets of London have been transformed over in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Festive decor and holiday lighting give the area a wonderfully Christmassy atmosphere, while special treats and drinks complete the occasion, including delicious hot Butterbeer. And there’s more, with Celestine Warbeck and the Banshees putting on a special seasonal show just for you.

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s is also back making its way across the Universal Studios park. See favourite characters like The Minions from Illumination’s Despicable Me and familiar faces from Dreamworks’ Madagascar and Shrek as larger-than-life balloons, flying high above the parade floats. And there’ll be classic Christmas nutcrackers, elves, and an appearance from Santa in his sleigh!

On December 3rd, 4th, 10th and 11th, Mannheim Steamroller, one of the best-selling holiday artists of all time, will be returning to Universal Studios Florida for a series of live performances, included with your park admission. Make sure you’re at the Music Plaza Stage for 7pm to hear his incredible scores.

A large balloon shaped like a nutcracker being carried on string, passing next to a large Christmas tree

Universal’s Islands of Adventure

See live entertainment and festive decor at Hogsmeade, in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including a special holiday projection show over Hogwarts Castle. The Magic of Christmas comes to life as the stars begin to shine, with multiple shows between dusk and park close, showing a dazzling display of holiday spirit.

Over at Seuss Landing, it’s time for The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, which celebrates the cheer and charm of Dr Seuss’ Who-ville. See a live retelling of the classic tale starring the Grinch, who you’ll even have a chance to meet and get an autograph from, too.

There’s also The Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast, where the Grinch himself will be making the rounds, in this separately ticketed experience. Fill up your plate at the buffet, then settle in and get your camera ready. But watch out - The Green One has been known to steal his fair share of bacon here and there…

Performers dressed up as Whos from The Grinch singing and dancing on a stage

Universal Hotels

There are also plenty of ways to celebrate the season’s holidays across all eight of the Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels, whether you are staying at the hotel or just paying a visit.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Thanksgiving Day Buffet at Trattoria del Porto
Thanksgiving Menu at Mama Della’s Ristorante
Holiday Harbor Nights on the Harbor Piazza (separately ticketed event for guests 21+)
Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Strolling Holiday Carolers
Christmas Day Buffet at Trattoria del Porto
Christmas Day Menu at Mama Della’s Ristorante
New Year’s Eve Party on the Piazza (separately ticketed event)
New Year’s Eve Prix Fix Menu at Mama Della’s Ristorante

Hard Rock Hotel