Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

Unfortunately, we aren’t able to make it down to Orlando this year for the Christmas festivities. However, we went last year, so here’s my rundown of how Universal does the holidays.

Islands of Adventure

First of all, holidays at Universal are not a separately ticketed event- if you have tickets to the park, you get to see the lights, shows, parades, etc. You can even meet the Grinch, though the line is loooonggggg (this takes place over at Islands of Adventure).

BUT!! There’s an option to buy tickets to the Grinch breakfast, where you can meet the Grinch and the Who’s without waiting in that long line. Last year, the Grinch breakfast was at Circus McGurkus and was so worth it! Can’t speak for how the breakfast is this year, but renovations at Circus McGurkus means the Grinch breakfast was moved and is not a buffet. Hoping it will be moved back next year because the vibes of that place are perfect for meeting the Mean One and all his neighbors (was going to say his friends, but, well, I don’t think that sounds very Grinch-like).

Islands also has the Wholiday spectacular, which is a fun Christmas show. Sorry to the Grinch, but he’s not actually the star of the show- his dog, Max is!

And don’t miss the Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle, a projection light show against the castle in Hogsmeade. It’s magical.

Universal Studios

Over on the Studios side, you can watch the parade, complete with Macy’s balloons (yes, like the ones in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade). Rounding out the end of the parade is, you guessed it- SANTA!!

Universal also has the largest wreath in the US hanging from the entrance and a huge Christmas tree across from Race Through New York. Of course, I can’t mention the tree without also mentioning Earl the Squirrel. He’s become a holiday mascot, with images and merch around the park, but he’s based on a real squirrel. Several years ago, a squirrel hid in the giant Christmas tree and kept chewing on the lights, making them go out. Team members affectionately named him Earl, and now we have the cartoon version of him we’ve come to know and love.

Even if you’re not a wizard, I can’t imagine a better place to celebrate Christmas than at Diagon Alley. Side note- is Harry Potter a Christmas movie?

City Walk & Hotels

Aside from the activities inside the parks, Universal has fun decorations, huge Christmas trees, etc. at their hotels, too- so be sure to check those out, too! And you can usually find some fun holiday treats both inside and outside of the parks as well.