Walt Disney World is one of the best places to visit during the holidays, but it isn’t the only game in town. There are many other glorious ways to celebrate the season! Central Florida’s other major theme park complex, Universal Orlando Resort, will also get you into the holiday spirit.
A popular parade is back this year at Universal Studios Florida. Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s has those giant balloons that you can’t help but associate with Thanksgiving! You’ll see some of your favorite characters float overhead. It’s a lot of fun.
Another holiday tradition has returned, but only for select evenings. Mannheim Steamroller will perform on December 2, 3, 9, and 10. The show is included with your Universal Studios Florida admission.
If you’re feeling a bit Grinchy, there’s someone at Islands of Adventure “who” can relate. In Seuss Landing they celebrate Grinchmas! The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular is a live show that retells the classic story. You might also see some Whos throughout the land. Reserve The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast to be even more immersed in the story.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter celebrates the holidays in both parks! In addition to decorations, you can enjoy holiday classics from the Frog Choir or new holiday tunes from Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. Hogwarts Castle receives a special festive light show that you won’t want to miss. To experience all that the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has to offer, you’ll want a park-to-park ticket. That’s the only way you can ride the Hogwarts Express.
CityWalk and the Universal resort hotels are also decked out. There’s extra entertainment and activities for all ages.
These are a few of the reasons to visit Universal Orlando Resort during the 2023 Holiday Season. There are special foods and merchandise as well. The season runs from November 17 through December 31.
Here are the links to all of my “The Holidays Outside of Walt Disney World” suggestions: SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Tampa, Universal Orlando Resort, and Now Snowing in Celebration.