Universal Orlando has unveiled its holiday programming, including the return of popular theme parks and expansion into new Epic Universe territory.
Universal’s holiday parade featuring Macy’s returns to the streets of Universal Studios in Florida with giant balloons, themed floats and characters from “Shrek,” “Despicable Me” and “Madagascar.” Santa Claus comes to the rear and begins lighting the 80-foot-tall Christmas tree. Parades and other holiday programs routinely begin on November 21, the day after Thanksgiving.
Islands of Adventure returns to the stage with “The Grinchmas Who Lied Day Spectacular.” Additionally, visitors can interact with the Grinch and various Whos in the Seuss Landing section of the park. There will also be a new Whoville Tree Lot, which will feature “a collection of whimsical trees themed to various Dr. Seuss characters,” Universal said.
The Hogwarts Castle projection show “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” returns to IOA’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Two other Wizarding Worlds in Orlando, Universal Studios’ Diagon Alley and Epic Universe’s Ministry of Magic, will also be adding seasonal decorations. (It’s also the season for warm butterbeer.)
For Epic’s first holiday season, the park will install special lighting and decorations in Celestial Park, the first land you walk through when entering the theme park, which opened in May.
These holiday festivals are included in regular theme park admission. Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios also offer Universal Holiday Tours. This includes a special encounter with Santa and the Grinch, reserved seating for the show, cookie decorating, refreshments, and priority access to studio attractions. Prices range from $80 to $110 depending on the date. The tour also requires the purchase of a day pass between the two parks.
The IOA will once again host a Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast at Circus McGurkus Café Stupendus. The menu is Seuss-themed and includes Whoville interactions, including the Grinch’s discoveries, such as green eggs and ham quiche. Breakfast costs $58.99 ($32.99 for ages 3-9).
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The Red Coconut Club at Universal CityWalk will transform into the Green and Red Coconut Club this season. The theme for 2025 is Mistletoe Pines Ski Lodge.
Universal Orlando will hold New Year’s Eve festivities across its three theme parks and 11 hotels, but details have not yet been announced.
Universal’s holiday activities will continue until January 4th.
For more information, visit universalorlando.com/holidays.
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First published: October 9, 2025 10:04 AM EDT
