Holiday Like This at Universal Orlando – Ultimate 2019 Christmas Guide

 

The 2019 holiday season is almost here and Universal Orlando is a destination not to be missed when it comes to festive fun. This year’s #holidaylikethis season: will run from Saturday, November 16, 2019 to Sunday, January 5, 2020.

Let’s dive in a discover all that the parks and resorts will have to offer – from Christmas in the Wizarding World, to Grinchmas, to the Macy’s Holiday Parade; there is sure to be something for everyone. Be sure to keep this page bookmarked as we will be updating it when announcements are made!

Bookmark this page and check back for updates.  We will be adding information as it comes in.

Universal Studios

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s

The Minions join Santa Claus for Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, a holiday favorite that also features characters from Madagascar and Shrek.  Featuring 15 detailed floats soaring through the sky – be sure to catch glimpses of other favorite friends and holiday icons.

Dates and times:

• Nov. 28, Dec. 6, and Dec. 14: 5:15pm
• Nov. 17 – 27, Nov. 29 – Dec. 5, Dec. 7 – 13, Dec. 15 – 23: 5:30pm
• Dec. 24 – 30: 8:00pm
• Dec. 31 – Jan. 6: 5:30pm

Mannheim Steamroller

Another popular offering in the parks that is included with park admission is a concert of holiday favorites by Mannheim Steamroller on the Universal Music Plaza stage.  Note that admission is first come, first serve.  If you want to be closer to the stage for optimal viewing – we recommend arriving 1.5-2 hours before showtime. 

Times and Dates:

• Nov. 18, 19, 25 and 26 (times TBA)
• Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17 (times TBA)

Other Holiday Shows

These regular park time favorites are still performed daily with a holiday twist. Be sure to check your times guide upon entering the park for show times.

A Barney Holiday

Marilyn Monroe and the Diamond Belles (holiday version)

The Blues Brothers Holiday Show

Superstar Parade (does not leave during the holiday season)

Islands of Adventure

The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular

 

This is a CAN’T MISS SHOW and one of the highlights of the holiday line up.  This stage show takes place over in Islands of Adventure and note that it does not accept Express Pass.

Where is the show exactly?

Guests will begin for form a queue line beside Circus McGurkus restaurant.  About 15 minutes before the show Team Members will lead you backstage to a large soundstage building.  Seating inside the building is stadium style so there really is no bad seat. 

When it isn’t showtime you can find the cast members roaming around Seuss Landing.  Be sure to interact with them for some added fun!

Dates and Times:

• Nov 16: 10:45am, 11:45am (ASL), 12:45pm, 1:45pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm (ASL), 6:30pm
• Nov 17 – Nov 22: 11:30am (ASL), 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 3:45pm, 4:45pm, 5:45pm (ASL)
• Nov 23 – Nov 30: 10:45am, 11:45am (ASL), 12:45pm, 1:45pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm (ASL), 6:30pm
• Dec 1 – Dec 7: 11:30am (ASL), 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 3:45pm, 4:45pm, 5:45pm (ASL)

 The Grinch™ & Friends Character Breakfast

Straight from Mount Crumpit, The Grinch™ brings his special blend of mischief, turning your morning meal into an animated adventure.

After you choose from delectable buffet selections, get your camera ready. The Green One himself will make the rounds, stopping at every table to pose for photos. Will his heart grow three sizes bigger that day? Or will his belly? All we can say is watch out –he’s been known to steal his share of bacon here and there.

Where is it?

Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous™, Seuss Landing™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

When is it?

• Nov. 16-17, 23-24, 27-30 Dec. 1, 5-8, 12-15, 19-25….seating times are between 8:00 am- 10:00am

Cost?

The cost is $39.99 for adults and $20.99 for children (ages 3-9). Note that theme-park admission is still required in addition to your breakfast reservation and payment.

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Christmas around the Wizarding World will extend to BOTH parks – Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.  In both areas you will find things full of festive décor, seasonal food and drinks (including hot butterbeer), and holiday performances by the frog choir, and Celestina Warbuck.  The highlight of the day is a projection show that appears on the Hogwarts castle called “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts”. 

Dates and Times:

Frog Choir

• Nov. 16-30, Dec. 1-7 – 10:30 am, 11:30, 12:30 pm, 2:00, 3:00, 4:00

Celestina Warbeck and the Singing Banshees

• Nov. 16 – 1:30 pm, 2:30, 3:30, 5:00, 6:00, 7:00
• Nov. 17-22, Dec. 1-6 – 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:00, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30
• Nov. 23-24, Dec. 7 – 1:30 pm, 2:30, 3:30, 5:00, 6:00, 7:00
• Nov. 25-30 – 10:30 am, 11:30, 12:30 pm, 2:00, 3:00, 4:00, 6:30, 7:30, 8:30

The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™ Castle

• Nov 16 – Dec 7: On-going from dusk until park close

What do I need to know about the Hogwarts Castle lighting?

The shows typically run every 20 minutes.  The system that Team Members use to control crowds is to create corrals of sorts.  Guests will be queued up down the street near Ollivanders.  A group of guests will move up closer to the castle, view the show, and be escorted to exit towards Jurassic Park.  At that time, a new group from the queue will be moved forward to view the show.

Keep in mind that due to this – the ONLY way to enter Hogsmeade is through the Lost Continent side.  For optimal viewing we recommend watching near the Triwizard Rally stage.  Note that it will get packed quick (because hey…it’s a good spot) so steak out your place early.

Both rides (Forbidden Journey + Flight of the Hippogriff) WILL be operational during the show, too.  This is a great time to catch them with lower waits as most guests will be outside for the show. 

Holidays Around the Resorts

Hard Rock Hotel

Christmas Eve Prix Fixe Dinner
Date: Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Time: 5pm – 11pm
Location: The Kitchen
Price: $55* [*tax and gratuity not included]

Christmas Day Brunch
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: 10:30am – 3pm
Location: The Kitchen
Price: $50* adult; $20* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3
[*tax and gratuity not included]
Entertainment: Appearances by Universal Orlando characters

Christmas Day Prix Fixe Dinner
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: 5pm – 11pm
Location: The Kitchen
Price: $55* [*tax and gratuity not included]

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date: Friday, November 29, 2019
Time: 6:30pm – 7pm
Location: Lobby
Entertainment: Cookie decorating (beforehand)

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Date: Sunday, December 22 – Monday, December 30, 2019
Time: Sundown (visit or call the concierge or front desk for times)
Location: Lobby

Portofino Bay

Christmas Day Buffet
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: 11am – 5pm
Location: Trattoria del Porto
Price: $67* adult; $25* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]
Entertainment: Appearances by Universal Orlando characters, live music, face painter, balloonist and kids’ crafts and activities table

Holiday Harbor Nights
Date: Friday, November 29, 2019
Time: 6:30pm – 9pm
Location: Harbor Piazza
Price: $65* regular; $95* VIP [*tax and ticketing fees not included]
Entertainment: Live music and Christmas tree lighting ceremony

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Date: Sunday, December 22 – Monday, December 30, 2019
Time: Sundown (visit or call the concierge or front desk for times)
Location: Lobby

Holiday Cookies & Beverages in the Lobby
Date: Friday, December 6, 2019 – Wednesday, January 1, 2020
Time: 3pm – 6pm
Price: Complimentary

Visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus
Date: Friday, December 20 – Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Time: 6pm – 9pm
Price: Complimentary
Location: Harbor Piazza

Strolling Holiday Carolers
Date: Friday, December 20 – Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: 7pm – 9:30pm
Location: Lobby (and throughout the hotel)

Kids’ Holiday Crafts & Activities
Date: Friday, December 20 – Wednesday, January 1, 2020
Time: Noon – 6pm
Location: Lobby
Price: Complimentary

Royal Pacific

Christmas Day Breakfast Buffet
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: 7am – 11am
Location: Jake’s American Bar
Price: $23.99* adult; $13.99* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3
[*tax and gratuity not included]
Adults (ages 21+) can add all-you-care-to-enjoy mimosa and Bloody Mary cocktails for just $15 more.

Christmas Day Buffet
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: 11am – 9pm
Location: Islands Dining Room
Price: $59* adult; $27* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3
[*tax and gratuity not included]
Adults (ages 21+) can add all-you-care-to-enjoy mimosa and Bloody Mary cocktails for just $15 more.
Entertainment: Appearances by Universal Orlando characters, face painter, balloonist, musician and hula dancer

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date: Friday, November 29, 2019
Time: 6pm – 6:30pm
Location: Poolside

Wantilan Luau
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2019
Time: 5:30pm registration; 6pm seating
Location: Wantilan Pavilion
Price: $71* – $91* adult; $36* – $51* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3
[*tax and ticketing fees not included]
Entertainment: Live music, hula dancers and fire dancers, tree lighting

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Date: Sunday, December 22 – Monday, December 30, 2019
Time: Sundown (visit or call the concierge or front desk for times)
Location: Lobby

Ornament and Stocking Decorating
Date: Monday, December 23 and Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Time: 4pm – 8pm
Location: Lobby
Price: $9 per person

Storytelling
Date: Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Time: 4pm – 5pm
Location: Orchid Court

Sapphire Falls

Christmas Day Breakfast Buffet
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: 7am – 11am
Location: Amatista Cookhouse
Price: $22.99* adult; $12.99* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]
Adults (ages 21+) can add all-you-care-to-enjoy mimosa and Cubanita cocktails for just $15 more.

Christmas Day Buffet
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: 11am – 9pm
Location: Amatista Cookhouse
Price: $59* adult; $27* child (ages 3 – 9); complimentary under age 3 [*tax and gratuity not included]
Adults (ages 21+) can add all-you-care-to-enjoy mimosa and Cubanita cocktails for just $15 more.
Entertainment: Appearances by Universal Orlando characters, face painter and balloonist.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date: Friday, November 29, 2019
Time: 6pm
Location: Lobby
Hot chocolate, apple cider and cookies will be served.

Ornament Decorating
Date: Friday, November 29, 2019 and Sunday, December 22 – Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Time: 5pm – 9pm
Location: Lobby
Price: $9 per person

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Date: Sunday, December 22 – Monday, December 30, 2019
Time: Sundown (visit or call the concierge or front desk for times)
Location: Lobby

Aventura

Christmas Day Meal
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: Noon – 11pm
Location: Urban Pantry
Price: $24* adult; $12* child (ages 3 – 9) [*tax and gratuity not included]
Menu: Prime Rib, Ham, Roasted Potatoes, Assorted Vegetables and more

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Date: Sunday, December 22 – Monday, December 30, 2019
Time: Sundown (visit or call the concierge or front desk for times)
Location: Lobby

Cabana Bay

Christmas Day Meal Special
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: Noon – 11pm
Location: Bayliner Diner
Price: $18.99* adult; $9.99* child (ages 3 – 9) [*tax not included]
Menu: Turkey or Ham, Stuffing, Cranberry Compote, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Candied Yams, Biscuits

Winter Wonderland and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date: Friday, November 29, 2019
Time: 4pm – 8pm
Location: Lobby

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Date: Sunday, December 22 – Monday, December 30, 2019
Time: Sundown (visit or call the front desk for times)
Location: Lobby

Endless Summer – Dockside Inn

Christmas Day Meal
Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Time: Noon – 11pm
Location: Beach Break Cafe
Price: $13.99* adult; $7.99* child (ages 3 – 9) [*tax and gratuity not included]
Menu: Honey Glazed Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Cornbread Stuffing, Green Beans, Dinner Rolls and Gravy

Christmas Tree Lighting
Date: Friday, November 29, 2019
Time: 6 – 7pm
Location: Lobby

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Date: Sunday, December 22 – Monday, December 30, 2019
Time: Sundown (visit or call the concierge or front desk for times)
Location: Lobby

Meet and Greet with Santa
Date: Friday, December 13 and 20, 2019
Time: 6-7pm
Price: Complimentary
Location: Lobby

CityWalk

Historically, we do not usually see much in the way of holiday offerings at CityWalk.  Although, there are a couple of things to look out for.

• Annual Passholders can sign up for free holiday movie screenings. Find out more HERE in the UOAP Facebook Group.
• Some restaurants may have seasonal offerings on the menu. Check upon arrival.

Selection of Holiday Merchandise 

Seasonal merchandise will soon be making it’s appearance around the parks and resorts.  Some of the more popular items are ornaments, tree trimmings, stocks, apparel, and Hogwarts themed items.  For a full peek at current offerings – check HERE.

Holiday Foods and Beverages

Voodoo Doughnut in CityWalk will offer a “Stuffed Santa Suit” doughnut set – which are yeast doughnuts dipped in Vanilla icing; one filled with Bavarian & white chocolate topped with Coconut, the other filled with peppermint chocolate cream. 

Over in Suess Landing you can find Grinchmas chocolate cupcakes decorated to look like the Grinch. As we mentioned earlier…hot butterbeer is also back for the holiday season!

Other holiday offering include:

• Apple Strudel on a Stick (found Today Cafe , San Francisco Bakery, and Croissant Moon Bakery)
• Christmas Tree Eclairs (found Today Cafe , San Francisco Bakery, and Croissant Moon Bakery)
• Holiday Wreaths (found Today Cafe , San Francisco Bakery, and Croissant Moon Bakery)

If you are looking for a more traditional holiday meal – head over to Monsters Cafe in Universal Studios and Thunder Falls Terrace in Islands of Adventure.  Both restaurants will be offering a yuletide meal of mixed green salad, herb-roasted turkey, cornbread stuffing, roasted potatoes, sautéed & steamed vegetables, served with an apple pie for dessert.

If you are looking to drink up some festive fun be sure to check out the following:

• Apple Pie on the Rocks – vanilla vodka, apple juice, and cinnamon.
• Apple Cider Irish Mule – Irish whiskey is combined with apple cider and topped with ginger beer, a cinnamon stick, and apple slices for garnish.
• Cranberry Margarita – dried cranberries (and a hint of lime) inside with sugar and salt on the rim.
• Frozen Eggnog – (find at Production Central veranda and Gramercy Pizza)
• Frozen Candy Cane – (find at Production Central veranda and Gramercy Pizza)

Festival Flavors Holiday Buffet

The Festive Flavors Holiday Buffet ticket allows you access to Cafe La Bamba for an all-you-care-to-enjoy cuisine, specialty desserts, non-alcoholic beverages, and sparkling wine*; exclusive viewing areas for Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s and Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration located within Universal Studios Florida. Check in is located in Cafe La Bamba and opens at 5pm. Upon check in you will be given a wristband and must show your wristband to access the exclusive viewing areas.

Dates and Times:

 December 22 through Monday, December 30 beginning at 5:00 pm

Cost:

The cost is $64.99 for adults and $44.99 for children (ages 3-9). Note that theme-park admission is still required in addition to the buffet meal experience.

Sweets and Sounds Dessert Party

Make your Holidays a little sweeter with some desserts, a parade, and a holiday concert! On select nights you can treat yourself to seasonal desserts, savory bites, sparkling wine and non-alcoholic beverages in a special area to watch Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. Then, after the parade, you’ll have access to an exclusive viewing area near the stage to enjoy Mannheim Steamroller performing live in concert, along with non-alcoholic beverages and a cash bar. It’s a holiday treat for your eyes, ears and your sweet tooth.

Dates and Times:

• Nov, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 (beginning at 4:30 pm)
• Dec, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15 (beginning at 4:30 pm)

Cost:

The cost is $49.99 for adults and $29.99 for children (ages 3-9). Note that theme-park admission is still required in addition to your dessert party and entertainment tickets.

Holiday Offer

• Vacation Package: Holiday Stay and Play

Save up to $200 if you stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort or at Loews’s Sapphire Falls Resort. Beginning this November Universal Orlando Resort™ takes the Holiday season to new heights with an incredible lineup of festivities. Experience Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, and more. You’ve never had a holiday like this.

This festive package includes a 5-night hotel stay, theme parks tickets and more.

Starting from $85.00 per person, per night, based on a family of (4).  Promotion availability is limited.

When to Purchase:

NOW – December 19, 2019

When to Go:

November 16, 2019 – January 5, 2020

 

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