Holiday festivities begin at Universal Orlando Resort on Nov. 17, with many of the traditional offerings returning from previous years.
Among those special experiences will be the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” stage show, a staple of Universal Orlando’s holiday celebrations (apart from a pandemic-induced break).
A float in Universal’s Holiday Parade (Theme Park Tribune)
The nightly Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s balloons will also be back, along with its “stunning finale including a special appearance by Santa Claus and the lighting of the magnificent 80-foot Christmas tree,” according to a Universal press release.
In Universal Studios Florida, Musical guests Manheim Steamroller will perform on four dates: Dec. 2, 3, 9 and 10.
Stretching across both Universal theme parks will be Christmas festivities in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” projection show and holiday songs performed by the Frog Choir will be back in Islands of Adventure, while Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida will see Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees return to her holiday-themed setlist.
Christmas in Diagon Alley (Universal)
While the experiences mentioned above are included with normal theme park admission, for guests willing to pay for something extra, Universal is bringing back its Holiday Tour add-on from last year.
The guided tour — again costing $80 per person — will include character greetings with the Grinch and Santa Claus, reserved seating at the “Grinchmas” stage show and an exclusive showing of the Hogwarts projection show after the park closes.
Universal will offer a “Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast” from Nov. 17 to Dec. 27 at Confisco Grille in Islands of Adventure. The breakfast will cost $59 for adults and $33 for kids ages 3 to 9.
The holiday celebrations end on Dec. 31 this year. You can take a look back at our photo report from the 2021 event here.