Universal Orlando Holidays: Grinchmas, Parade, and Magic

The Welcome Guide® Staff

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(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)

Get ready for an explosion of festive fun because the Universal Orlando Holidays celebration is back, bringing maximum cheer, parades, and pure magic from November 21st straight through January 4th, 2026! Prepare for a destination-wide takeover as dazzling decorations blanket every corner, including Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and brand-new areas of Universal Epic Universe! Access to this incredible seasonal blitz is included with your regular park ticket. Still, the party doesn’t stop there—you can level up your visit with over-the-top tours and exclusive character dining!

(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)
(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)

Incredible Signature Seasonal Entertainment!

Universal is showcasing blockbuster holiday attractions based on your absolute favorite franchises:

  • Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Dive into pure wizarding splendor! Garlands and lights deck out all three magical locations—including the groundbreaking Ministry of Magic at Epic Universe! Catch the seasonal harmonies of The Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, and witness the breathtaking “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” spectacle! Don’t forget to grab a hot Butterbeer!
  • Grinchmas in Seuss Landing: The mean, green spirit of Grinchmas bursts to life! Witness the fan-favorite, live stage spectacular, “The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular,” a vibrant retelling of the Dr. Seuss classic! Meet the mischievous Grinch himself, hang out with the Whos, and explore a whimsical Who-ville Tree Lot!
  • Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s: Get ready for a HUGE spectacle! This massive parade fills Universal Studios Florida with colossal balloons, vibrant holiday floats, and beloved characters from Minions, Shrek, and Madagascar! The grand finale is a jaw-dropping moment as Santa Claus lights the park’s majestic 80-foot Christmas tree!
  • Universal Epic Universe Décor: Even the groundbreaking new park is sparkling! Check out the seasonal lighting and decorations in Celestial Park, making the grand entrance truly unforgettable.
(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)
(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)

Amp Up the Fun with Exclusive Holiday Extras!

Want to make your visit even more memorable? Universal has fantastic add-on experiences and festivities across its hotels and CityWalk!

VIP Holiday Enhancements

Dare to go behind the scenes with The Universal Holiday Tour! This guided experience across both main parks treats you like royalty, offering reserved seating for the Macy’s parade and Grinchmas show! Plus, you get cookie decorating, delicious light bites, and exclusive meet-and-greets with Santa Claus, The Grinch, and Max! Prices start at 79.99 dollars (plus tax). You can also kick off your morning with The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast at Islands of Adventure, where you can feast on Seussian-themed plated menu items like Green Eggs & Ham Quiche and get an exclusive meet-and-greet with the Grinch! There are also plenty of festive holiday bites to enjoy around the parks!

(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)
(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)

CityWalk and Hotel Holiday Thrills

The fun spills into Universal CityWalk, where the Red Coconut Club transforms into the Green and Red Coconut Club, complete with a “Mistletoe Pines Ski Lodge” theme, lively entertainment, and festive cocktails! Keep an eye out for the lovable Earl the Squirrel, too! Plus, all 11 Universal Orlando Resort hotels are fully decked out, hosting special holiday buffets, Christmas tree lightings, Hanukkah ceremonies, and roving carolers to keep the joyous energy flowing through every corner of the destination! 

Get your park tickets here!

(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)
(Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort)

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