The Universal Orlando Resort may celebrate Christmas much later than Walt Disney World, but the festivities here are worth the wait. Beginning December 6, head to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure to check out these Christmas events.
1. Macy’s Holiday Parade – Universal Studios Florida
The Macy’s Holiday Parade is by far the most impressive parade to roll through the streets of Universal Studios Florida. It features several balloons straight from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York City and has Santa himself bringing up the rear. Snag a spot at the end of New York near the Christmas tree and you’ll have a perfect view for the finale of the event – Santa’s tree lighting.
For 2014, the parade promises a new inclusion known as the Chloe The Clown “Balloonicle.” This float features a self-powered vehicle and towering balloon combined in one stunning highlight.
2. The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular – Islands of Adventure
The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular is a live stage show that tells the beloved story of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It features singing and dancing Whos, a dapper narrator, a live Max, and of course the Grinch himself. Plan to queue up early to get a good seat. This is one of the best holiday features Islands of Adventures has to offer, and one you definitely won’t want to miss.
3. Mannheim Steamroller Live – Universal Studios Florida
Mannheim Steamroller offers several live holiday performances throughout December featuring festive songs fit for the season. You’ll find them on the Music Plaza Stage at Universal Studios. The concert kicks off just after the holiday parade on select dates. In 2014, you can catch them on December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21. Even if you don’t snag a spot to watch the whole show, you can still catch some of their music wafting through the air if you’re nearby on the right weekends.
4. Who-ville festivities and the Grinch meet and greet – Islands of Adventure
Seuss Landing features some of the best decorations in the resort, and for good reason. The Who-liday Spectacular show isn’t the only fun thing that happens here around the holidays. The Whos also take to the streets between shows, so you may spot them strolling along, napping against a lamppost, or otherwise enjoying the holidays throughout the area.
The Grinch Meet and Greet is a must-see even if you don’t elect to catch the full show. While you can always find the Grinch out and about in Seuss Landing, he takes on an entirely different look around the holidays. Think the Jim Carrey version of the Grinch complete with face make up and fur, rather than the full-body costumed character found the rest of the year.
5. Resort celebrations
Universal Orlando’s on-site resorts offer several holiday celebrations on select dates. Check out these fun perks of staying at Universal around Christmas.
- Hanukkah Celebration at Cabana Bay Beach Resort: December 16-24
- Holiday story readying and arts and crafts at Cabana Bay Beach Resort: select dates and times
- Holiday activities at Lowes Royal Pacific Resort: December 5-31, select times
- Holiday themed kids’ poolside fun at Hard Rock Hotel: select dates November 27-January 1
- Hanukkah Celebration at Hard Rock Hotel: December 16-24, 6:30pm
All Universal’s park festivities are included with your regular tickets. Some resort activities may have separate tickets. Check out the festive fun from December 6, 2014 to January 3, 2015.
