ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal fans are invited to "set their festive side free" with a destination-wide holiday celebration that kicks off in November – the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort.
Guests can look forward to a mix of merry and mischief from Friday, Nov. 17 all the way up to Sunday, Dec. 31.
"From the wondrous spectacle of 'The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle' in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, and coming face-to-face with everyone’s favorite green grouch, the Grinch, during Grinchmas, to gazing at the floats and larger-than-life balloons during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, there are boundless opportunities for guests to enjoy at Universal Orlando this holiday season," amusement park leaders explain in a news release.
In the holiday spirit, Universal-goers can also take advantage of a deal going on that allows them to enjoy five days of access for the price of a three-day ticket.
Here's a breakdown of things to look forward to with this year's event.
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure:
The streets of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be full of holiday magic after it's transformed into a "wizarding holiday wonderland."
There will be themed decor, lights, garlands and much more for guests to soak in.
"The nighttime spectacle, 'The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,' returns to Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure bringing to life a stunning projection show highlighting Christmas moments and holiday spirit inspired by the beloved characters and stories of the 'Harry Potter' films," park leaders explain in the release.
There will also be a choir comprised of Hogwarts students and their croaking frogs – the Frog Choir – ready to put on a special holiday-themed performance.
Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida:
These pop culture-inspired stories from popular franchises like Despicable Me. Shrel and Madagascar will fill the streets of Universal Studios during the Holiday Parade.
"These beloved stories come to life as larger-than-life balloons, colorful holiday floats and hundreds of jolly performers embark on a picturesque journey that culminates in a stunning finale including a special appearance by Santa Claus and the lighting of the magnificent 80-foot Christmas tree," amusement park leaders explain.
Grinchmas at Universal Islands of Adventure:
If you're a fan of the Grinch, you won't want to miss this event where the green creature stars in a live retelling of the Dr. Seuss classic, the "Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.”
Seuss Landing will be decorated specifically to bring guests into a "whimsical atmosphere" full of oversized candy canes, twisty Christmas trees, tinsel ornaments and much more.
"There will even be appearances from the Whos from Who-ville and a special photo opportunity that brings guests face-to-face with the mean, green one himself, the Grinch," amusement park leaders explain.
Mannheim Steamroller at Universal Studios Florida:
Mannheim Steamroller is making a return to the popular Oralndo-based amusement park to get guests into the holiday spirit. There will be live performances on Dec. 2,3,9 and 10.
There is also a holiday tour that people can enjoy which gives them special access to different entertainment, including:
- A chance to meet the maven of mischief himself, the Grinch, and his dog, Max, while enjoying small bites, desserts and non-alcoholic beverages
- Reserved seating at the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” in Universal Islands of Adventure
- A meet-and-greet photo opportunity with Santa Claus in Universal Studios Florida
- An exclusive, after-hours showing of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure to complete the night’s festivities
Anyone interested in checking out Universal's Holiday Tour can click here to see the dates available. Tickets start at $79 and separate theme park admission with a 1-Day 2-Park Park-to-Park ticket is needed.
