When it comes to Christmas, Universal Orlando offers a great alternative to Disney. Christmas at Universal Orlando runs from November 22 to December 31. During this time, you can enjoy seasonal events at their theme parks and Universal CityWalk entertainment district.
In this post, I want to focus on Christmas at Universal Studios Florida. I visited the park recently and enjoyed their holiday offerings, and I think they warrant an exploration of their own.
Why Visit Universal Studios Florida at Christmas?
Reason #1: cost.
One of the best things about Christmas at Universal is that most of their holiday events are included with regular admission. Unlike Disney World, where you have to buy separate tickets for their major holiday events, you can enjoy the Holiday Parade at Universal Studios Florida or Grinchmas and the Hogwarts castle show at Islands of Adventure with just your regular ticket.
Universal Studios Florida is also beautiful during the holidays. With a massive Christmas tree, Santa hats on the streetlights, festive wreaths in Diagon Alley, and garlands in New York, the Christmas decorations at Universal Studios Florida feel both classic and a little quirky. Walking around felt like being in an old-school Christmas movie.
The parade, decorations, and Christmas music playing in the park really put me in the holiday spirit.
But that’s not all. Universal Studios Florida has even more holiday activities to offer. Let’s dive into the festive fun you can have at the park.
Universal Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s
The Universal Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s is the main event for Christmas at Universal Studios Florida. Don’t miss it, because it’s magical and worth the wait.
What can I expect from the Universal Holiday Parade?
The Universal Holiday Parade features floats and giant balloons based on animated films such as Shrek, Despicable Me, and Madagascar. Santa Claus makes a special appearance.
The parade also includes costumed dancers, stilt walkers, and other performers.
What is the Universal Holiday Parade route?
Starting at the Horror Make-Up Show, the Universal Holiday Parade makes its way down Hollywood Boulevard. It then winds through New York, where Santa lights up the giant Christmas tree as his float passes by.
What time is the Universal Holiday Parade?
The parade runs nightly at 5:30pm.
What are the best spots to watch the Universal Holiday Parade?
If you’re looking for a great spot to catch the parade, I recommend the following locations:
Near the Bourne Identity Stuntacular in Hollywood – This is where I watched the parade, and I recommend it for a few reasons.
There’s plenty of space along Hollywood Boulevard to get a good view. You can actually sit on the sidewalk if you need a break after walking all day. (Just keep your feet up on the sidewalk and off the parade route.) The parade also starts nearby, so you won’t have to wait long for the floats to come your way.
Near Revenge of the Mummy in New York – The holiday decorations here, including the giant Christmas tree, provide a festive backdrop for your parade photos. The tree lighting with Santa and the snowfall really make this part of the parade route feel special.
New York gets crowded. However, if you want some extra holiday magic and don’t mind standing, this is a great spot to watch the parade.
In front of the Starbucks – Also in the New York area, the Starbucks provides another great vantage point for capturing parade photos.
How early should I get a spot for the Universal Holiday Parade?
Arrive at least 30-60 minutes early to secure a spot for the parade, depending on park crowds. The park gets packed between Christmas and New Year’s, so the earlier you claim your spot, the better.
Holiday Tribute Store
Universal’s Tribute Store has become a fan favorite since its 2015 debut. Located in the New York area of the park, the shop pays homage to seasonal experiences such as Halloween Horror Nights and Mardis Gras, as well as beloved movies such as Jurassic Park and Jaws.
But it’s not your average gift shop. The Tribute Store is known for its imaginative displays and Easter eggs scattered throughout. Fans eagerly anticipate how the store will transform with each new season.
Christmas at the Tribute Store is no different. The 2024 shop is themed to “Holiday Pop Up Stories.” The building facade resembles a shelf of storybooks.
Inside, the rooms are themed to different properties, including Harry Potter, the Grinch, and Minions. Storybook pages with interactive elements, such as lights and sounds, line the walls.
You can find books for sale, along with plush toys, Christmas ornaments, clothing, and much more.
But even if you don’t buy anything, the Holiday Tribute Store is worth a visit for its charming displays. The store has a cozy, maze-like feel that makes it a fun experience.
Holiday Shows
During Christmas at Universal Studios Florida, the street shows switch over to holiday mode.
Over in New York, the Blues Brothers and the percussion group Beat Builders each deliver high-energy Christmas shows. In Diagon Alley, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees put on a spirited performance of wizarding holiday tunes such as “My Baby Gave Me a Hippogriff for Christmas” and “Accio Christmas.”
These holiday shows last about 15 minutes each. It’s a nice way to get into the holiday spirit while taking a break from the rides and lines.
Earl the Squirrel Meet and Greet
Meet Earl the Squirrel, a cute character created for Christmas at Universal Studios. He’s inspired by a real-life squirrel that once made a home in the Universal Studios Christmas tree and nibbled on some Christmas lights. Earl has become so popular that a whole section of the Holiday Tribute Store is dedicated to him. He even has his own book now.
If you’re a fan of Earl, you can meet him in person. Head over to the Christmas trees and sleigh by the lagoon near Central Park to get your picture taken with the mascot. Make sure to check the park schedule for meet and greet times.
Earl’z March of the Nutcrackers Scavenger Hunt
Earl’z March of the Nutcrackers Scavenger Hunt isn’t included in the admission price, but it can be a fun activity if you’re visiting both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
For $14 plus tax, you pick up a map and an Earl the Squirrel nutcracker ornament at one of the participating locations in Universal Orlando. The map will lead you to 16 nutcracker figures scattered around Universal property. As you search for each nutcracker, you’ll solve a puzzle on the map.
Note: The nutcracker ornament you get at the start of the hunt is your prize, so you don’t have to finish the hunt to get the ornament.
Universal Holiday Tour
This experience also costs extra, but the Universal Holiday Tour is worth mentioning.
This VIP tour mostly takes place over at Islands of Adventure. It includes perks such as reserved seating for the Grinch show and an after-hours viewing of the Hogwarts castle show. However, it does include a meet and greet with Santa at Universal Studios Florida.
Holiday Treats and Merchandise
You can find festive foods and merchandise available for purchase around the park. So if you feel like treating yourself to an early Christmas present, a peppermint cheesecake bar from the TODAY Café or a Grinch backpack from the Universal Studios Store might do the trick.
Conclusion: Your Guide to Christmas at Universal Studios Florida
Maybe you’ve already checked out all the Christmas lights in your neighborhood and gone to some holiday events. If visiting a theme park is something you want to do this season, Universal Studios Florida is a great choice.
Christmas at Universal Studios Florida is pretty enchanting. The twinkling lights and festive music create a magical atmosphere that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re treating yourself to seasonal snacks, catching a show or parade, or enjoying the holiday atmosphere, there’s something special about celebrating Christmas at the park.