Everything you need to know about holidays at Universal Orlando, all in one place.
Explore current Universal Orlando holidays and happenings.
Check out our Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights 2025 guide here.
Universal Unlocked Holiday Guides
Universal Orlando Holidays
Beginnings
Universal Orlando Resort has long embraced seasonal celebrations, transforming the parks for major holidays and unique themed events.
In the early years, the resort primarily focused on Christmas festivities, introducing Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure and Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios Florida. Over time, Universal expanded its holiday calendar, adding Halloween Horror Nights in the fall, Mardi Gras in the spring, and special celebrations for the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve.
Each event brings its own decor, entertainment, and exclusive food offerings, making every season feel special at Universal Orlando.
Universal Orlando Holidays Today
Today, Universal Orlando offers year-round holiday experiences, each with unique entertainment and themed attractions.
Halloween Horror Nights, running from September through early November, is one of the resort’s most famous events. It features terrifying haunted houses, scare zones, and themed food and drinks. Universal Mardi Gras, from February to April, brings a New Orleans-style party with a nightly parade, live concerts, and international food booths. During summer, Universal celebrates Independence Day with fireworks and special entertainment. And New Year’s Eve at CityWalk offers live music, parties, and midnight celebrations.
Of course, the holiday season from November to early January remains a highlight, with Grinchmas, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s holiday transformation, and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s.
Universal Orlando Holidays at Universal Unlocked
This guide will help you plan the best time to visit Universal Orlando based on its seasonal events.
We’ll cover must-see holiday offerings, key dates, and insider tips for experiencing each celebration. Learn how to maximize Halloween Horror Nights with Express Passes, and navigate holiday crowds for Christmas festivities.
Whether you’re looking for thrills, festive entertainment, or seasonal treats, this guide ensures you make the most of every holiday event at Universal Orlando.
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