Disney gets most of the holiday attention, but Universal Orlando does Christmas well, and this year it adds something new. If you are weighing where to spend a December trip, here is what Universal has planned.
Dates
Holidays at Universal Orlando run November 14, 2026 through January 3, 2027. The celebration is included with park admission. It is not a separate ticketed event, though annual pass blockout dates may apply.
The headline experiences
- Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Returns across all three parks that feature the Wizarding World.
- Grinchmas at Universal Islands of Adventure. Seuss Landing becomes Who-ville, with a Grinch meet and greet, the Who-Ville Tree Lot and the stage show The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.
- Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's at Universal Studios Florida. Giant balloons, more than 100 performers and characters from Despicable Me, Shrek and Madagascar, with Santa and a snowfall finale.
- Holiday Tribute Store, with themed merchandise.
- Snoggletog at Isle of Berk, in Epic Universe.
New for 2026: Epic Universe goes festive
For the first time, Super Nintendo World and Isle of Berk get holiday decor, and Celestial Park turns into a cosmic winter wonderland. The Cosmos Fountain also gets holiday displays running all day.
Universal Holiday Tour
For an add-on, the separately ticketed Universal Holiday Tour runs on select dates from November 14 through January 2, 2027. It includes:
- An exclusive meet and greet with the Grinch, Max and Santa Claus
- Reserved seating for The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular
- An optional reserved viewing area for the Macy's parade
Pricing starts at $69.99 per person plus tax.
Hotels and CityWalk
Universal CityWalk and the resort's 11 hotels also go seasonal. Staying on-site during the holidays comes with Early Park Admission and free transportation to the parks.
Planning tips
Pick your priorities. The parade, Grinchmas and Harry Potter at night are all highlights, so decide which you cannot skip.
Watch the closures. Not everything will be running. See our Universal Orlando closure watch, including Volcano Bay's seasonal closure.
Book early. Holiday weeks sell out hotels, and the best dates go first.
Planning a Universal Orlando holiday trip, with tickets, hotels and the Holiday Tour? The Villains can help.
