While spending the holidays in a theme park may seem like a strange way to celebrate, the fact is that places like Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World offer a number of fun ways to experience the season – without ever actually getting on a ride! Let’s take a look at some of the ways to get in the holiday spirit at the Universal Orlando Resort during the Christmas season.
When Christmas time comes to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the land embraces the holiday season with spellbinding decorations, holiday entertainment, and the can’t-miss hot Butterbeer. You’ll find twinkling lights and enchanting strands of garland and wreaths adorning the eaves and shop windows throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Guests will want to make sure to take a close look as each shop’s decorations that are uniquely themed (even Knockturn Alley gets festive with a wreath).
For most, watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual tradition, and for years, the creative geniuses at Universal Orlando and Macy’s have partnered to bring larger-than-life parade balloons to the streets of Universal Studios Florida. Along with the classic Macy’s star balloons, viewers can expect to see Minions from Illumination’s Despicable Me, the characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar films, plus over 100 festive entertainers including Santa Claus. There’s even a special Florida snowfall for the finale. As expected, the parade is a popular activity, and the sidewalks fill up the closer you get to the parade start time. The parade route is roped off for everyone’s safety, so grab any snacks and plan restroom breaks ahead of time. I recommend getting to your preferred viewing area 25-30 minutes before.
After the parade, you’ll want to meet the mean, green one himself, the Grinch. You can find him and the Whos spreading holiday cheer — or grumpiness in the Grinch’s case — throughout Seuss Landing.
Beyond the theme parks, one of the best ways to enjoy the holiday season is by touring the Universal resorts where they have all kinds of festive decorations. Each hotel has a uniquely themed tree in the lobby and hundreds of lights, garland, and wreaths throughout. Just walking in to check in at the front desk will immediately put you in good spirits with the warm ambiance and holiday tunes filling your ears. And with fire pits that are lit nightly, along with some special holiday feasts at the resorts’ restaurants, it’s a lovely way to spend an evening – far from theme park crowds!
Speaking of dining, most people probably agree that food is one of the best parts about the holidays – no matter where you are – and Universal Orlando is no different. Guests will want to enjoy all kinds of favorites like the holiday ornament doughnuts at Voodoo Doughnut – or the amazing milkshakes at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.
If enjoying the holiday season at Universal Orlando sounds like a fun and festive way to celebrate, you’ll want to put this on your “Holiday Must See” list!
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