Universal Studios Hollywood truly knows how to make the season bright! Their Universal Holidays event, running daily from November 29th through January 6th, transformed the park into a winter wonderland that exceeded all my expectations. From the whimsical charm of “Grinchmas” to the magical splendor of “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” every corner of the park was infused with holiday cheer. And the best part? It’s all included with your theme park admission!
My adventure began in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, a land that already bursts with color and excitement. The holiday overlay added a whole new layer of charm. As I stepped into the Mushroom Kingdom, I was greeted by a giant Christmas tree topped with a sparkling Super Star and a pair of adorable snowmen sporting Mario and Luigi hats and scarves. Festive garlands and wreaths adorned the buildings, and even the iconic green pipes were wrapped with twinkling lights. I couldn’t resist picking up a festive plushie from the exclusive holiday merchandise collection, and the seasonal treat at Toadstool Cafe was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of adventure.
Next, I ventured to Universal Plaza, which had been transformed into the whimsical town of Who-ville for “Grinchmas.” The vibrant décor and lively entertainment truly brought the beloved Dr. Seuss story to life. I was captivated by the towering 65-foot Grinchmas tree, a topsy-turvy marvel adorned with hundreds of ornaments and thousands of shimmering lights. The nightly tree-lighting ceremony was a spectacle to behold, complete with a flurry of “snow” that filled the air with magic. Throughout the day, the plaza was alive with festive activities. I caught a performance by the talented Who-inspired doo-wop quartet, whose renditions of holiday classics had everyone tapping their toes. I also had the opportunity to meet the Grinch and his faithful dog Max, a truly memorable experience for any fan of the grumpy green character. And of course, no visit to Who-ville would be complete without indulging in some sweet treats from “Who-bilicious Treats.”
No holiday experience at Universal Studios Hollywood would be complete without a visit to “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.” As I stepped into Hogsmeade village, I was enveloped in a magical atmosphere. The snow-capped buildings were adorned with twinkling lights, garlands, and wreaths, and the air was filled with the sounds of festive music. I enjoyed a delightful performance by the Frog Choir, whose a cappella carols echoed through the cobblestone streets. Sipping a cup of hot Butterbeer while taking in the sights and sounds of the season was pure bliss. As dusk fell, I joined the crowds gathered in front of Hogwarts castle for “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” a breathtaking light projection show that brought the iconic landmark to life with dazzling displays of color and imagery.
The holiday spirit extended beyond the theme park to Universal CityWalk, where a towering 40-foot Christmas tree adorned with over 200,000 sparkling LED lights served as a beacon of festive cheer. The outdoor plaza was decked out in holiday décor, and live music and entertainment added to the merriment.
Universal Holidays was truly a magical experience. The park went above and beyond to create a festive atmosphere that captured the spirit of the season. While some areas felt a bit more decorated than others, the overall experience was delightful.
If you’re planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood during the holiday season, trust me, you’ll want to get to the park early! Not only will this help you avoid the biggest crowds, but it also means you’ll have more time to experience all the holiday magic. Speaking of which, it’s a good idea to have a general plan for your day, especially if you’re determined to see certain shows like the Grinchmas tree lighting or the Hogwarts light show. Those are definitely can’t-miss experiences! And don’t forget your camera! Universal has done an amazing job with the decorations, so you’ll want to capture all those festive memories.
Universal Holidays is a fantastic way to celebrate the season. With its enchanting atmosphere, festive entertainment, and beloved characters, it’s an experience that will leave you feeling merry and bright. And with the holiday festivities included in the price of theme park admission, it’s an incredible value for a truly unforgettable experience.
