There’s something so special about the holidays. It’s a distinct feeling, one where you want to fill your heart with joy and find ways to connect with loved ones for special moments.
A recent visit to Universal Orlando Resort proved to me that this is truly a magical and perfect place to escape to and find some holiday cheer. It’s a place meant to disconnect and immerse yourself in all the fun offered at the parks and beyond.
Here are three reasons to visit Universal Orlando Resort for the holidays. So, plan your staycation and head on over to enjoy some serious holiday fun!
1. All of the Lights at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
If there is one thing that we can promise you, it’s that you will be surrounded by twinkling lights, lush wreaths and many other gorgeous decorations at their two parks, Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure.
One stand-out experience that had me impressed and immersed was a gorgeous light show that will leave you breathless at Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade at the park’s Harry Potter worlds. As soon as you walk in, you will be greeted by twinkling lights all over the Harry Potter buildings, and décor meant to impress all muggles. Holiday magic includes a selection of Hot Butterbeer and energetic holiday-themed performances by The Frog Choir, featuring Hogwarts students and their giant frogs. Trust me, these will have you dancing and tapping your feet!
Then there are Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees in Diagon Alley—it’s a fun time all around these areas, so expect a lot of cheer, dancing and to feel joy while visiting with loved ones!
But may I confess the one thing that made me stop in awe at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter during my visit? It was a night full of music, lights and impressive projections at the nightly show, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.” During the show, Hogwarts castle comes to life with projections of touching moments from the movies dancing upon the castle in an impressive display meant for all to enjoy.
2. Holiday Tours and Character Breakfasts
When we visited the parks, we realized that there is so much more being offered at Universal Orlando Resort than anyone could ever dream of. That includes The Universal Holiday Tour, an immersive guided journey through all the holiday experiences around the parks. Imagine a super cute and exclusive meet-and-greet with the grumpy and festive Grinch and his cheerful dog Max. You will also be offered sweet desserts and non-alcoholic beverages in Universal Studios Florida and reserved seating at the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” at Universal Islands of Adventure. If you can swing it for an additional fee over the park ticket price, it’s highly recommended!
Do you love character breakfasts? I do, and this other offering sounds amazing. Visitors at Universal Islands of Adventure can enjoy breakfast with some beloved characters that represent the holidays! This is The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast, an event where you can dine with the Grinch and other favorite characters from Seuss Landing. In case you were wondering, yes, there will be Green Eggs and Ham and Cindy-Lou Who’s Belgian Waffles. It sounds delicious, right?
3. Themed Holiday Food and Drink
Besides the parks, other adjacent Universal Orlando Resort properties will keep you enjoying that holiday spirit.
All eight Universal Resort Hotels treat visitors with delicious and special menus celebrating the season, including on Christmas and New Year’s Eve. From Christmas tree lightings, Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremonies, strolling carolers and more, it’s going to be a blast, and you’ll feel right at home at the hotels.
At Universal City Walk, The Green & Red Coconut Club offers guests live entertainment and themed holiday cocktails. The energetic destination will have a variety of restaurants and bars offering special holiday experiences and deals, so make it a sort of scavenger hunt where you can try out everything you can. This is the perfect time to celebrate, and you won’t regret the trip.
For more information on all of the holiday celebrations and offerings at the Orlando destination, click here.
