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The Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

Credit: Tricia Kennedy

The holidays are one of the most magical times of the year to visit Walt Disney World, but there are other local places to celebrate. Universal Orlando Resort also goes all out! Here are a few of the highlights.

If you’re a fan of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, you’ll want to visit Universal Studios Florida. This is where you’ll find Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. It features many of the larger than life balloons that you know and love. The parade didn’t take place last year, it’s nice to see it return.

At Islands of Adventure, you can celebrate Grinchmas. It takes place in Suess Landing. The highlight is The Grinchmas™ Who-liday Spectacular. It’s a live show that retells the story of the Grinch. It’s taken from the live action movie, not the classic holiday cartoon. The music was recorded by Mannheim Steamroller, which expands the holiday feel. You’ll want to keep your eyes open in Suess Landing. You might see a Who or two.

You’ll want a park-to-park ticket, because you need to include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in your plans. In Diagon Alley (which is in Universal Studios Florida) Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees will entertain Guests. Hogsmeade, which is located in Islands of Adventure, is home to The Frog Choir. You’ll want to visit Hogsmeade after dark to experience The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™ Castle. Hogwarts Castle is lit up with projections, lights, and burst fireworks. It’s an experience that you don’t want to miss.

If you’re a fan of scavenger hunts, you’ll want to participate in the Holiday Tree Hunt. Purchase a brochure and then hunt for trees throughout Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk. Once you’re done you will receive a special ornament as a reward.

Of course there are plenty of decorations throughout the theme parks and CityWalk. There are holiday treats for sale, and special holiday merchandise. If you’re looking for some extra holiday cheer, consider adding a trip to Universal Orlando Resort to your vacation.

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About Paula K

I grew up in Western Massachusetts. When I was nine my family went to Disneyland and I was hooked. I grew up, attended New England College in Henniker, NH and eventually moved to Virginia. I worked as a disc jockey, married and became a full time mom when our daughter was born. Fast forward several years. In 2010 we moved to Central Florida and my Disney obsession grew. I now work as a freelance writer and spend my spare time in the parks. Under the name Paula Brown I penned the novels Dream Wanderers and The Coffee Cruiser. I also am a co-author of Dining at Walt Disney World: The Definitive Guide. I'm obsessed with Star Wars, so this is a good time to live in Central Florida. I've been a vegetarian for well over a decade, a choice that my daughter eventually made as well. While my husband still hasn't joined us fully he has given up most meats except for seafood. I was relieved to find that vegetarian dining is not difficult at Walt Disney World.