Holidays 2024 at Universal Orlando
- Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Visitor’s Guide & Insider Tips
- Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular 2024 – Visitor’s Guide & Insider Tips
- Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s – Visitor’s Guide & Insider Tips
The 2024 holiday season is here, and Universal invites guests to unwrap the awesome and let loose this holiday season during its Holidays celebration at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. 2024’s festivities run from Friday, November 22, 2024 to Tuesday, December 31, 2024, which puts them on par with the past few years’.
Let’s explore all of the joy that’s to be found at Universal Orlando Resort this holiday season. We’ll start with this overview page, covering the proceedings at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure and everything going on at Universal’s various hotels. Then we provide three additional pages with even greater detail about Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s, the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Unwrap big savings this holiday season toward your visit to Universal Orlando Resort by purchasing discounted theme park tickets through Orlando Informer.
Skip to: Universal Studios Florida | Islands of Adventure | Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Holiday Tour | Holiday-exclusive food and drink | Meeting Santa Claus | Holiday merchandise | Tickets | Holidays premium add-ons | Universal hotels
How does Universal Studios Florida celebrate the holidays?
A good – and merry – number of Universal’s Holidays celebrations can be found right at Universal Studios Florida. Two principal pieces to the Holidays at Universal Studios Florida are the Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s
The big event at Universal Studios Florida (well, outside of the Wizarding World, at least) is Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s. Guests can watch some of their all-time favorite characters in a larger-than-life manner through this parade. Characters from Despicable Me, Shrek, and Madagascar will all be featured, in addition to Santa himself!
Universal Studios Florida’s Holiday Tribute Store
The Tribute Store was initially created for Halloween Horror Nights in 2015, collecting some of that year’s various intellectual properties and pieces of merch together in one spot. It was then transformed for Mardi Gras, doing much the same work. That formula has been repeated once more for Christmas, with this year’s Tribute Store experience consisting of rooms themed to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and Earl the Squirrel.
This year, guests are invited to step straight into the magic of pop-up books. The journey begins with Hogsmeade for Christmas, a fictional book from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here, you’ll find the perfect gifts for the wizarding fan in your life—think cozy sweaters, adorable plush creatures, and the finest wands this side of Ollivanders.
After closing the pages of Hogsmeade for Christmas, walk through the whimsical world of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Step into this holiday classic, where numbered ornaments guide you through the Grinch’s tale, and keep an eye out for some surprises—like interactive fun by the chimney. Along the way, discover Grinch-inspired merchandise, from drinkware and backpacks to cozy pajamas and more!
Earl the Squirrel’s tale began as a real-life mischief-maker, gnawing on light wires in the Universal Studios Florida Christmas tree. Over time, he’s transformed into the beloved mascot of Universal Orlando Resort’s holiday celebrations! In the next room of the Tribute Store, Earl’s story unfolds along the walls, sharing his quirky origins. And for those who want to keep the magic alive, you can take his tale home with The Tale of Earl the Squirrel.
The grand finale of the Holiday Tribute Store is a treasure trove of must-have merchandise! Discover playful goodies from the Minions, adorable Sanrio finds, and more! Plus, dive into the magic of storytelling with a selection of Dr. Seuss and Harry Potter books—perfect for gifting or adding to your own collection.
Here, guests can indulge in an array of delightful holiday treats:
- Vanilla Light Bulb Cookie Dough Ball
- Chocolate Light Bulb Cookie Dough Ball
- Peppermint Light Bulb Cookie Dough Ball
- Gingerbread Macaron
- Peppermint Macaron
- Eggnog Macaron
- Wreath Peppermint Mocha Trifle Cake
- Coquito Trifle Cakeookie
- Grinch Onion Cheesecake Tart (Hazelnut)
- Christmas Tree Cupcake
- Gingerbread Cookie Sandwich
- Max Cookie
Additional holiday celebrations at Universal Studios Florida
The Blues Brothers Holiday Show
Jake and Elwood perform festive favorites like “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” “Blue Christmas,” and more with snow on Delancey Street at the end of each show. The holiday edition of the Blues Brothers street party is a fan-favorite and should not be missed – even folks not familiar with the band/film will surely love this one!
Marilyn & the (Holiday) Diamond Bellas
In 2016, Universal debuted the Marilyn Monroe and the Diamond Bellas street show; the following year, the company decided to cast the fun little production in a Christmas light.
Although the same basic premise – Ms. Monroe and her girls arrive to “film” a musical routine for an upcoming picture – the yuletide-flavored version exchanges the USO bent of the original with (you guessed it) a holiday overlay. The Diamond Bella Dancers now have beautiful Santa-esque costumes that look stunning all in silver, and the second song has been replaced with the time-period-appropriate “Santa Baby.”
We highly recommend sticking around for the show if you manage to catch it while strolling through the park, as it’ll help put a holiday-tinged smile on your face for the rest of the day.
How does Islands of Adventure celebrate the holidays?
Islands of Adventure isn’t outdone by its theme-park sibling next door – here you can (normally) find some of the most fun Christmas activities and events at all of Universal Orlando.
Grinchmas at Seuss Landing
As you likely know, Islands of Adventure has a whole island dedicated to Dr. Seuss, the classic children’s author: Seuss Landing! When the holiday season hits full swing, Universal transforms this area into the whimsical world of Grinchmas (think warm fuzzies with a side of snark).
Every nook and cranny of this wintry wonderland is filled with yuletide decorations and a whole cast of Who-ville residents eager to share their season’s greetings with guests. The Grinch himself even makes appearances at Honk Honkers, begrudgingly allowing guests to take photos with him. While the meet and greet for Whoville’s Holiday Cheermeister utilizes a standard queue, you can find other residents out and about at various times around Seuss Landing.
Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular
At Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure, the popular Dr. Seuss book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is brought to life in the heartwarming live stage show, “Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular,” starring The Grinch and the Whos from Whoville. Grinchmas is part of Universal Orlando Resort’s Holidays celebration and features live entertainment that the whole family can enjoy.
If you would still like to get more information on this usual highlight of Universal’s Holidays, you can visit our dedicated page to the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.
The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast
The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast is slated to return to Islands of Adventure on select dates beginning November 22 through December 30 for this year’s Universal Orlando’s Holidays. This dining experience offers the opportunity to dine on delicious breakfast items at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous while in the company of Whos and the one and only Grinch.
This character breakfast is $58.99 (plus tax) for adults and $32.99 (plus tax) for children.
What is Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter?
Due to popular demand, Universal offers a full-blown Christmas party at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – at both Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida.
In addition to both lands being decked to the hilt with decorations, garlands, and Christmas lights, you can also experience exclusive food and entertainment (including holiday songs by the Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck). The star of the holidays at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle, the projection-mapping show that is a festive version of The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle.
Just like Universal’s Holiday Parade or Grinchmas, the wizarding Christmas celebration is included in general theme-park admission.
Get detailed, in-depth information on everything wizarding-yuletide-related in our dedicated page to Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Universal’s Holiday Tour
Guests looking to immerse themselves in the seasonal cheer at Universal Orlando Resort theme parks can register for Universal’s Holiday Tour. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy various festive-filled activities, such as light bites and desserts paired with a Grinch and Max meet and greet, reserved seating for the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a photo op with Santa Claus, priority access to Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, and an exclusive, after-hours showing of The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle to end their evening.
Pricing for this tour starts at $79.99. The Universal Holiday Tour is available on select dates from November 25 through December 29.
What are the exclusive food and drinks at Universal during the holidays?
General food and drink offerings at Universal Orlando
While most of the yuletide culinary roster at Universal Orlando can be found at the Holiday Tribute Store, there are still a few other items spread throughout the resort (and, additionally, some of Tribute’s items can also be found elsewhere). We have the full list here!
Holiday Food in Universal Studios Florida
TODAY Cafe
Roasting Chestnuts Mont Blanc – $6.99
Central Park Crêpes
Roasted Turkey – $13.99
Roasted turkey, artisan bread stuffing, sage gravy, bourbon cranberry sauce, brie cheese
DreamWorks Imagination Cafe
Gingerbread Cookie – $4.99
Holiday Food in Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Croissant Moon Bakery
Chocolate Poinsettia Cake – $6.99
Florida Snowman – $6.99
Holiday Food at CityWalk
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen
Ugly Sweater Shake
Vanilla ice cream with spiced streusel, mini marshmallows, holiday sprinkles, and an ugly sweater sugar cookie
How do I meet Santa Claus at Universal Orlando?
While we await information on how Universal Orlando Resort will celebrate the 2024 holiday season, unwrap the details from 2023 below!
Many guests ask the question, “Where can we meet Santa at Universal Orlando?” Last year, the only place to see Santa is on his float on the Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. We will keep our eyes open for Father Christmas and his whereabouts in 2023.
What’s the exclusive merchandise at Universal during the holidays?
Universal has long released exclusive merchandise as part of its yuletide celebrations, but it really started to up the ante in this regard over the last few years, especially when Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was ushered in. Beyond these items, guests can find holiday merchandise across the resort. The best place to shop for these items is the Holiday Tribute Store. Each room is full of seasonal items and holiday accessories that will complete any visit to Universal Orlando Resort during the holidays.
What ticket should I get during the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort?
Lucky for you, Orlando Informer offers a plethora of discounted theme park ticket options. Take advantage of big savings this holiday season by purchasing a discounted park-to-park ticket, which allows you to visit both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure on the same day.
What are the Holidays premium add-ons at Universal Orlando?
Holiday Nutcracker Hunt
New for 2024, Earl the Squirrel has added a puzzling twist to the holiday fun! Hidden among the nutcrackers scattered around the resort is a challenge waiting for you. Purchase a map from the Universal Studios Store at Universal Studios Florida to kick off your adventure. Need a hand? We’ve included photos of the nutcrackers to guide you along the way!
Holiday Nutcracker Hunt 2024 – photo gallery
How do Universal’s hotels celebrate the holidays?
Portofino Bay Hotel
Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony
Nightly between Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and Thursday, January 2, 2025, guests can visit the hotel lobby for a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony. Everything begins at sundown; check with the front desk for nightly times.
Strolling Carolers in Lobby and throughout hotel
- Date: Friday, December 20 – Tuesday, December 24, 2024
- Time: 6 PM – 9 PM
- Price: Complimentary
Christmas Day Buffet in Trattoria del Porto
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 12 PM – 8 PM
- Price: $85* adult; $35* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]
- Reservations: Resy; call 407-503-DINE (3463)
- View Menu
Christmas Day Prix-Fixe Menu in Mama Della’s Ristorante
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 5 pm – 10 pm
- Price: $70* adult; $25 child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]
- Entertainment: Opera singers and strolling musicians
- Reservations: Resy; call 407-503-DINE (3463)
- View Menu
Hard Rock Hotel
Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony
Nightly between Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and Thursday, January 2, 2025, guests can visit the hotel lobby for a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony. Everything begins at sundown; check with the front desk for nightly times.
Christmas Day Buffet in The Kitchen
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 7 AM – 2 PM
- Price: $80* adult; $40* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]
- Reservations: Resy; call 407-503-DINE (3463)
- View Menu
Royal Pacific Resort
Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony
Nightly between Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and Thursday, January 2, 2025, guests can visit the hotel lobby for a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony. Everything begins at sundown; check with the front desk for nightly times.
Christmas Day Breakfast Buffet in Jake’s American Bar
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 7 AM – 11 AM
- Price: $32* adult; $17* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]. Adults (ages 21+) can add all-you-care-to-enjoy mimosa and Bloody Mary cocktails for just $27 more.
- Reservations: Resy; call 407-503-DINE (3463)
Christmas Day Buffet in Islands Dining Room
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 11 AM – 4 PM
- Price: $80* adult; $40* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]. Adults (ages 21+) can add all-you-care-to-enjoy mimosa and Bloody Mary cocktails for just $27 more.
- Reservations: Resy; call 407-503-DINE (3463)
- View Menu
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony
Nightly between Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and Thursday, January 2, 2025, guests can visit the hotel lobby for a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony. Everything begins at sundown; check with the front desk for nightly times.
Christmas Day Breakfast Buffet in Amatista Cookhouse
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 7 AM – 11 AM
- Price: $32* adult; $17* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]. Adults (ages 21+) can add all-you-care-to-enjoy mimosa and Cubanita cocktails for just $27 more.
- Reservations: Resy; call 407-503-DINE (3463)
Christmas Day Buffet in Amatista Cookhouse
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 12 PM – 4 PM
- Price: $80* adult; $40* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]. Adults (ages 21+) can add all-you-care-to-enjoy mimosa and Cubanita cocktails for just $27 more.
- Reservations: Resy; call 407-503-DINE (3463)
- View Menu
Universal’s Aventura Hotel
Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony in the Lobby
Nightly between Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and Thursday, January 2, 2025, guests can visit the hotel lobby for a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony. Everything begins at sundown; check with the front desk for nightly times.
Christmas Day Meal Special in Urban Pantry
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Price: $23.99* adult; $12.99* child (ages 3 – 9) [*tax and gratuity not included]
- Menu: Roasted turkey breast, traditional stuffing, sour cream and chives mashed potatoes, green bean casserole. Add pumpkin pie for $5.50 per person.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Winter Wonderland and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Date: Friday, November 29, 2024
- Time: 4 PM – 7 PM
- Price: Complimentary
- Note: Festive event featuring skaters, Santa meet-and-greet, live entertainment, tree lighting, music, hot chocolate, and cookies.
Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony
Nightly between Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and Thursday, January 2, 2025, guests can visit the hotel lobby for a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony. Everything begins at sundown; check with the front desk for nightly times.
Christmas Day Meal Special in Bayliner Diner
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Price: $22.99* adult; $12.99* child (ages 3 – 9) [*tax not included]
- Menu: Turkey, stuffing, cranberry compote, broccoli, mashed potatoes, gravy, biscuit. Add pecan or pumpkin pie for $5.50 per person.
Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony
Nightly between Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and Thursday, January 2, 2025, guests can visit the hotel lobby for a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony. Everything begins at sundown; check with the front desk for nightly times.
Christmas Day Meal Special at Beach Break Café
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Price: $21.00* adult; $12.00* child (ages 3 – 9) [*tax not included]
- Menu: Turkey or ham, stuffing, cranberry compote, green beans, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, gravy, biscuit. Add pecan or pumpkin pie for $5.50 per person.
Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites
Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony
Nightly between Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and Thursday, January 2, 2025, guests can visit the hotel lobby for a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony. Everything begins at sundown; check with the front desk for nightly times.
Christmas Day Meal Special at Dockside’s Pier 8 Market
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Time: 2 PM – 11 PM
- Price: $21.00* adult; $12.00* child (ages 3 – 9) [*tax not included]
- Menu: Turkey or ham, stuffing, cranberry compote, green beans, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, gravy, biscuit. Add pecan or pumpkin pie for $5.50 per person.
What about the parks and Universal CityWalk?
The restaurants at the parks and Universal CityWalk offer an incredible variety of wonderful food, but they don’t typically have buffets or special events for Christmas. Instead, they tend to offer a few holiday-themed items in addition to their regular menus. To learn what they may be offering this year (and to possibly book a table), visit our dining reservations page for contact information.
This wraps up our overview of the 2024 holiday festivities at Universal Orlando. Be sure to check out the navigation links below to continue planning your visit.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from your friends at Orlando Informer!