Complete Guide to Universal Studios Christmas

Complete Guide to Universal Studios Christmas

Complete Guide to Universal Studios Christmas

This article is your complete guide to a Universal Studios Christmas. Christmas time at Universal Orlando offers the most perfect weather for enjoying a hot butterbeer and taking in the sights of Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. We also love the holiday parade and to enjoy Yet Grinchmas. So let’s dive into this guide and discover everything about Universal Studios Orlando Christmas 2024!

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Universal Orlando for your next vacation be sure to check out our Universal Crowd Calendar!

 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

When Does Universal Orlando Christmas Start?

Christmas at Universal Studios 2024 should start November 17th and run through December 31st, 2024! During this time, guests can expect to enjoy spectacular decorations, Christmas lights at Universal Studios, and festive food! With Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s, and the return of Grinchmas, you’ll find holiday cheer in nearly every corner of the resort.

When Does Christmas Start at Universal Studios?

• November 17th – December 31st, 2024

Universal Christmas dates have not been announced for 2024! Based on previous years, we can assume the holiday season at Universal Orlando will run from November 17th – December 31, 2024.

Is Universal Open on Christmas 2024?

• Yes! Both parks are open every day for the Universal Orlando Christmas dates in 2024.

It may be crowded since the Christmas season is the busiest time of year for all Orlando theme parks. But if you choose to go to Universal Studios on December 25^th, our one piece of advice is to get there early! It’s important to note that if you want to visit Universal Christmas 2024, depending on the day, park times may vary. However, you can always check Universal’s website for the most up-to-date schedules for times. The same goes for Harry Potter Christmas Universal hours.

Related Post: Complete Guide to Grinchmas at Universal Studios Orlando

The Best Time to Visit Universal Orlando During Christmas 2024

The Universal Christmas 2024 season is one of the most sought-after times of year to visit. For us, it comes in a close second place to the Halloween season with the Halloween Horror Nights celebration. The holiday season draws enormous crowds, and can honestly be overwhelming the closer it gets to Christmas Day. However, because Universal Studios Christmas 2024 begins November 17th, there are still low-crowd days to choose from!

When are the Best Dates to Visit Universal Orlando for Christmas 2024?

• November: 17th & 18th
• December: 1st – 16th

For an unforgettable Universal Studios Christmas in 2024, make sure to mark your calendars for optimal dates like November 17th & 18th, and 29th & 30th, or December 1st – 16th, with the weekend of December 10th and 11th as a potential choice despite slightly higher crowds. You can also utilize our free Universal Crowd Calendar to gauge the expected crowd levels, daily ticket prices, and average temperatures for these dates. Ticket prices at Universal fluctuate, reflecting crowd expectations—lower prices often indicate less crowded days, offering a strategic way to plan your visit.

Related page: Cheapest Universal Orlando Ticket Prices 

Universal Orlando Christmas Decorations 2024

Both the parks at Universal Orlando as well as CityWalk get a sparkling winter wonderland makeover! Whether you’re looking for 220 gallons of fake snow, a 26-mile-long parade, or a 65-foot tall tree – Thinking is Universal Orlando decorated for Christmas is an understatement! Christmas lights at Universal twinkle all season long and truly give the best Christmas vibes.

When Does Universal Studios Decorate for Christmas 2024?

• November 11th, 2024

Although there is no official decoration date, Universal Studios starts to put up decorations around November 11th. Historically, Universal decorates for Christmas as soon as Halloween Horror Nights comes to an end on November 4th.

Is Universal Decorated for Christmas 2024?

• Yes is an understatement! No matter where you are on Universal Orlando Resort property, you will be immersed in the Christmas season at Universal.

Some of our favorite Universal Studios Orlando Christmas 2024 decorations include:

• Universal’s Gigantic Christmas Tree – The 65-foot tall curved Christmas tree that feels like it’s taken directly out of the Dr. Seuss books!
• Shrek Holiday Float – Part of the Macy’s parade at Universal, this float weighs in at almost 30,000 pounds!
• Grinchmas Transformation – Seuss Landing gets completely transformed into a Grinch-y Christmas Wonderland!
• Hogsmeade at Christmas Time – There is absolutely no feeling like walking the streets of Hogsmeade with snow-capped rooftops, Christmas garland, and a warm Butterbeer.

If you are or plan on staying at a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel, Christmas will begin even sooner! Each Universal Hotel is also decorated for the Universal Orlando holidays. If you’re staying at a Universal Premier hotel the magic is even more grand! Expect Universal Christmas decorations with a uniquely themed twist depending on the hotel you’re in.

Related Post: Compare Universal’s Premier Resort Hotels

Universal Studios Park at Christmas 2024

Visiting for the holidays at Universal Orlando Resort offers many different forms of entertainment and sites, making sure there is something to do for everyone. Universal Studios during Christmas is full of delightful events that bring joy to everyone in attendance. Let’s go over what you can experience at Universal Studios Park at Christmastime.

Universal Studios Christmas Events 2024

• Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s – Catch some of your favorite characters to celebrate the holiday spirit with cheer and mischief.
• Christmas in Diagon Alley – Diagon Alley is fully decked out in holiday cheer and trimmings! Catch Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. Listen to them belt some of the Wizarding World’s favorite Christmas tunes!
• Universal’s Holiday Tree Hunt – A festive holiday scavenger hunt that happens in both parks as well at Universal CityWalk. You can purchase a scavenger map at almost any retail location for $10. Redeem the map for a Holiday Tree Hunt-themed ornament!
• Holiday Tribute Store – Universal Creative Team goes above and beyond to create a merchandise store like no other. Visit the Tribute Store in the Hollywood section of Universal Studios for holiday cheer!
• Christmas Concerts – You can watch 3 amazing concerts for the holidays at Universal. On your next visit, make sure to check out Mannheim Steamroller, The Blues Brothers Holiday Show, or Marilyn Monroe and the (Holiday) Diamond Bellas.

Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s

During your Universal Orlando Christmas visit, don’t miss the Universal Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s. This parade is full of beloved characters from Despicable Me, Shrek, Madagascar, and even Santa Claus! All are accompanied by stunning floats and balloons direct from New York City’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Kicking off each evening at dusk, this parade weaves its way through the Hollywood area and around the park, creating a magical 20-minute spectacle.

Mannheim Steamroller Concerts

Concert Dates:

• December 2, 3, 9 and 10

Mannheim Steamroller, the best-selling holiday artist of all time, performs live on select nights during the Universal Orlando Christmas dates. The concerts take place on the Music Plaza Stage in Universal Studios Florida. The concerts are included with park admission.

Universal Orlando Christmas Food 2024

During the Universal Orlando Christmas season, indulge in festive food and drink options that cater to every palate. From the seasonal hot Butterbeer in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to delightful holiday treats in Seuss Landing. Universal also typically features a Holiday Tribute Store. An immersive retail and culinary experience offering exclusive holiday merchandise alongside seasonal food and drink. With themed rooms celebrating the Grinch, Harry Potter, and more, enriching your holiday visit with magical flavors and unique finds.

Universal Studios Orlando Holiday Tour

An add-on to your Universal Christmas vacation can include the Universal Holiday Tour. For $79.99 per person, guests can enjoy a special holiday tour. Separate theme park admission is required for the tour. The Holiday tour includes:

• Exclusive meet and greet with The Grinch and his faithful dog Max
• Reserved seating for the Grinchmas Who-liday spectacular
• Small plates including cookies, Who Hash, Chicken & Waffles, Popcorn Shrimp, plus non-alcoholic beverages and a hot cocoa bar at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous (Islands of Adventure)
• Meet and greet with the one and only, Santa Claus! Includes 1 My Universal Photos digital download per party
• Priority access to 1 attraction (subject to tour itinerary)
• An after-hours showing of The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.

Related Post: Complete Guide to Christmas at Disney World 

Islands of Adventure at Christmas 2024

If we are being honest, Islands of Adventure at Christmas is the better of the two parks for enjoying the season. The Grinchmas Holiday Spectacular is one of the most unique holiday experiences to have. During the holiday season, Seuss Landing is decorated with the same holiday charm and cheer as it appears in Dr. Seuss’s Who-ville. Or you can head into Hogsmeade to watch the Hogwarts Castle transform for the Magic of Christmas projection show. Guests can also purchase their Universal Orlando tickets from The Park Prodigy to get early park admission to Universal Orlando to spend even more time in the parks!

Islands of Adventure Christmas Events 2024

• Grinchmas – Seuss Landing completely transforms into Who-ville filled with warm fuzzy feelings and a side of sarcasm. This holiday event is a full experience from shows, meet and greets, and exclusive decor!
• Who-liday Spectacular – The Grinchmas Show at Universal is a live retelling of the classic tale, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and it stars the one and only Grinch with recorded music.
• Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast – This is a special ticketed buffet at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous. You can meet the Grinch and all of our Whoville favorites. It’s a fun time for the whole family and a great way to have your own personal The Grinch Show at Universal Studios.
• Meet the Grinch – Fans of this quirky creature will get the opportunity to meet him for an autograph and photo-op. But that’s not all! Making special guest appearances are the Grinch’s dog, Max, and Cindy Lou Who and her many Who friends.
• Hogsmeade at Christmas – If you are a Harry Potter fan, you know the warm, fuzzy feeling Harry and his friends feel around the holidays. That’s why celebrating Christmas at Harry Potter World has to be a bucket list item.
• Hogwarts Magic of Christmas -This show brings beautiful snowy nights, Harry Potter movie scenes, Christmas decor and so much more! The Hogwarts Castle Christmas show is absolutely beautiful and should not be missed!
• Hogwarts Frog Choir – The Frog Choir in Hogsmeade performs a mix of traditional holiday songs and original wizarding carols for all muggles and wizards alike.

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter offers an unforgettable holiday experience. Both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley are adorned with festive decorations and lights. Visitors can savor holiday-themed treats, including the beloved hot Butterbeer. As dusk falls, Hogwarts Castle transforms with “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” a breathtaking projection show that illuminates the castle with iconic Christmas scenes from the Harry Potter series, running multiple times each evening to enchant fans and guests alike.

Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Grinchmas is a holiday celebration that takes place in Seuss Landing at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. The celebration includes a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s classic holiday tale starring The Grinch and features a heartwarming live performance by Whos from Who-ville, accompanied by an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller.

Universal Grinchmas Showtimes 2024

• Every Day from November 17th – December 31, 2024

Universal Orlando has not officially announced the Grinchmas date for 2024! However, showtimes for Grinchmas have not been posted on the Universal Orlando site or app. Showtimes will be posted in Universal Orlando’s mobile app, and are subject to change.

The Grinch Character Breakfast Universal 2024

It’s a dream come true! You get to eat breakfast with The Grinch and all of his Who-ville friends! With the Grinch Character Breakfast at Universal, you can start your day at Confisco Grille and enjoy a tasty sit-down breakfast with themed food and breakfast favorites including a non-alcoholic beverage and specialty treats. You may be wondering how much does The Grinch Character Breakfast cost? The character breakfast is $58.99 per adult and $32.99 per child (Ages 3-9). The price also includes 1 digital download photo from one character interaction.

Park Hopper Tip: Universal Studios Harry Potter Christmas Tickets 2024

For Christmas in Universal Orlando Resort, we can go all out with a Potterhead Christmas celebration, with live entertainment, Holiday tours, and an incredible Universal Christmas light show. If you’re looking to see both Harry Potter World Christmas events, we suggest park hopper passes, or the park-to-park option. This option offers the flexibility to enjoy both parks in one day. Plus, it’s the only way to experience the Hogwarts Express. Now you can have a Hogwarts Christmas at Universal Orlando by experiencing Islands of Adventure at Christmas, and then hop on the Express to enjoy the rest of Universal Studios.

Related Post: Complete Guide for the Best Harry Potter Christmas at Universal Orlando

Universal CityWalk at Christmas 2024

A Universal Orlando Christmas is a magical experience. Not only do the parks take the celebration to a whole other level, but Universal CityWalk does too! The restaurants at Universal CityWalk offer incredible nightlife and restaurants. CityWalk Orlando Christmas has its fair share of holiday-themed events that are worth taking part in!

CityWalk Christmas Events 2024

• Universal CityWalk Holiday Decorations – From festive garland to twinkling Christmas lights. CityWalk is fully decorated for the holidays! So if you’re wondering, is CityWalk decorated for Christmas 2024? The answer is absolutely yes!
• Mistletoe Pines Village – A new feature from 2021 that will return this year! This charming Christmas village popped up full of photo ops, food items, beverages, and retail locations.
• Limited Time Christmas Menus – Notable holiday menu items we love are the doughnuts from Voodoo Doughnuts and the amazing shakes from Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.
• Universal’s Holiday Tree Hunt – A festive holiday scavenger hunt that happens in both parks as well at Universal CityWalk. You can purchase a scavenger map at almost any retail location for $10. Redeem the map for a Holiday Tree Hunt-themed ornament!

Mistletoe Pines Village is the holiday hub of Universal CityWalk holiday events. We were so happy this was added last year as it gave us the opportunity to have a holiday activity without a parking ticket! This pop-up Christmas Village is located by Voodoo Doughnuts near the new Universal Store. Enjoy fun photo-ops with themed billboards, snack on holiday-flavored foods, or grab some hot cocoa and walk around! This Universal CityWalk Orlando Christmas Village also has holiday shopping booths where you can get your caricature drawn or design custom ornaments. Mistletoe Pines Village is open daily from 9 am – 11 pm.

Related Post: Learn How to Celebrate Christmas with Hot Butterbeer

Universal Resort Hotels at Christmas 2024

That’s right! The parks aren’t the only place to celebrate Christmas at Universal Studios 2024. All of Universal’s resorts decorate for Christmas time at Universal at the same time as the parks and CityWalk. All resorts generally receive wreaths, trees, garlands, and bows. Below is just a list of our favorite resorts to visit for the holiday season! These resorts are definitely part of our Universal Orlando Christmas 2024 guide for a reason and are worth planning for your trip.

For a limited time, guests can save up to an extra $250 on their Universal Orlando vacation package by booking with The Park Prodigy!

Best Universal Orlando Resorts for the Holidays 2024

• Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Along with all other hotels, this resort participates in a Menorah lighting ceremony during Hanukkah! This event happens nightly during the holiday starting at 6 pm.
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel – Catch the tree lighting ceremony on the Harbor Piazza all season long. Or stop into the resort closer to Christmas to listen to the Strolling Holiday Characters in the main hotel lobby.
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – Our favorite holiday meals happen at this resort. Amatista Cookhouse hosts a Christmas Day breakfast buffet from 7-11 AM and a Christmas Day buffet from 11 AM – 9 PM. There’s also a feast-filled celebration when it comes to Universal Studios Florida Thanksgiving.
• The Hard Rock Hotel – This resort has the perfect dining options for Universal on Christmas Day. Enjoy Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day brunch, or Christmas Day dinner all at The Kitchen Restaurant.

Staying on-site at Universal’s hotels during the holidays lets you indulge in not only the stunning decorations, but lets you enjoy all the specially ticketed buffets of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve!

Related Post: Ultimate Comparison of Universal Orlando’s Premier Hotels

Universal Orlando at Christmas FAQ

Q: When Does Christmas Start at Universal Studios?

A: You can expect to treat yourself to the beautiful decorations around all the parks from November 17 through December 31, 2024.

Q: Is Universal Open on Christmas Day?

A: The answer is yes, and a Universal Christmas is truly like no other. It may be crowded since the magic of Christmas tends to make guests eager to see all the beauty the parks hold.

Q: When Does Universal Studios Decorate for Christmas?

A: Universal Studios starts to put up decorations on November 11th. Historically, Universal decorates for Christmas as soon as Halloween Horror Nights comes to an end on November 4.

Q: Is Universal CityWalk Decorated for Christmas?

A: The answer is absolutely yes! From festive garlands to twinkling Christmas lights. CityWalk is fully decorated for the holidays!

Q: What is Mistletoe Pines Village at CityWalk?

A: A new feature that we hope to see return this year! This charming Christmas village popped up full of photo ops, food items, beverages, and retail locations.

Q: What are the Grinchmas Showtimes?

A: We can best guess from previous years that this year, Grinchmas will run every day from November 17th – December 31, 2024.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out our Universal Orlando Tickets! All guests who purchase their tickets from The Park Prodigy will get Early Park Admission to Universal Orlando! This could save you a ton of time in the parks and avoid buying express passes!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!