5 Reasons To Enjoy The Holidays At Universal Orlando Resort
If you love spending the holiday season at Universal Orlando Resort, you’ll love all the special events that will be happening until January 6. You can enjoy Christmas magic at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, see Minions and Santa Claus at the new Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s or discover the true meaning of Grinchmas.
Here are our top 5 things to enjoy at Universal Orlando Resort during the holidays.
1. Christmas at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
For the first time ever, Christmas is coming to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando. Guests will see uniquely themed holiday decorations, garlands and lights as they walk down the streets of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Need another reason? There’s special holiday-themed food! Don’t miss the hot Butterbeer. I know it sounds strange but I am obsessed with it. It’s like a warm butterscotch drink, similar to white hot chocolate.
Harry Potter fans will also enjoy the holiday performances by the Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees.
2. Hogwarts Castle Light Show
This is truly breathtaking. As night falls, state-of-the-art projection mapping and lighting wraps Hogwarts castle for “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” light show. You will see incredible Christmas moments inspired by the Harry Potter series and the music will also delight you.
3. Universal’s Holiday Parade
Universal’s award-winning entertainment team has worked to create a massive parade that will highlight traditional holiday favorites and some of today’s most popular characters. The all-new parade features more than 30 larger-than-life floats and balloons that can’t be seen anywhere else, plus over 100 performers.
My favorite part was seeing the Minions and other beloved characters from Despicable Me, Madagascar and Shrek. Santa Claus also makes a special appearance! Tip: check your guide map or ask as you enter the park for specific parade times.
4. Grinchmas
Watch the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes during a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s holiday classic in the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” and join the merry Whos from Who-ville as they celebrate the true meaning of the season and bring Grinchmas to life throughout Seuss Landing at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. And, on select dates, guests can enjoy a festive breakfast with the Grinch and his friends.
5. Mannheim Steamroller at Universal Orlando
Holiday music sensation, Manheim Steamroller, returns to Universal Orlando to spread cheer for all to hear during live concerts at Universal Studios Florida on Dec. 16 and 17.
Access to Universal Orlando’s Holidays celebration is included with regular theme park admission to Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. If you stay at certain Loews properties, like Sapphire Falls, you get access to the express line with your room key.
If you need specific information about park hours or attractions, download the free Universal Orlando Resort app or check out their website.
Special thanks to Universal Orlando Resort for inviting us to a special press event and to Loews Sapphire Falls for hosting us during the event. I did not receive any other compensation for my posts.
Photos: Jeannette Kaplun
