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Your guide to Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood lights up for Christmas with Grinchmas festivities, dazzling decorations, and special holiday shows across the park. Most Christmas experiences are included with general admission, but some activities, like photos with the Grinch, may require advance reservations or additional fees.

What to expect at Universal Studios Hollywood during Christmas

Visitors on Revenge of the Mummy ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, surrounded by flames and ancient decor.

Step into a world of festive fun as Universal Studios Hollywood transforms for Christmas, blending movie magic with holiday cheer.

  • Grinchmas: The park’s signature Christmas event brings Whoville to life with a towering tree, live performances, and meet-and-greets with the Grinch and Max. The nightly tree lighting ceremony is a must-see.
  • Holiday décor: Main Street, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Springfield dazzle with themed lights, garlands, and oversized ornaments, creating a truly immersive holiday atmosphere.
  • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Experience “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” a spectacular light projection show, and enjoy seasonal treats like Butterbeer.
  • Festive shows & entertainment: Catch holiday performances, carolers, and interactive shows throughout the park, including the Universal Plaza and Hogsmeade.
  • Seasonal treats & merchandise: Savor holiday-inspired snacks, hot chocolate, and exclusive Christmas merchandise available at shops and food stands.
  • Photo ops: Snap pictures with costumed characters in festive attire, including the Minions, Shrek, and the Grinch.
Celebrate the holidays with Grinchmas and more!

Enjoy Grinchmas, festive shows, and holiday treats-all included with your park ticket. Book early to secure your preferred dates and make the most of the season.

Family enjoying Universal Studios Hollywood entrance globe.
Plan your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood for Christmas

Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas Events

Man in a Grinch costume sitting in a themed lair with festive decor.

Grinchmas at Universal Plaza

  • Dates: December 1–31, 2025
  • Timings: 10am–6pm (tree lighting at 5:30pm)
  • Location: Universal Plaza
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Celebrate with the Grinch, Max, and Whoville residents. Enjoy live shows, story time, and the nightly tree lighting ceremony. Meet-and-greet opportunities are available throughout the day.
Hogwarts Express train at Universal Studios Hollywood.

The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle

  • Dates: December 1, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  • Timings: 6pm–park close (projection show every 30 minutes)
  • Location: Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Watch a dazzling light show projected onto Hogwarts Castle, set to festive music and magical effects. Shows run multiple times each evening.
Hogwarts Castle at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Holiday Frog Choir

  • Dates: December 1, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  • Timings: 11am–6pm (performances every hour)
  • Location: Hogsmeade stage
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Enjoy live performances by Hogwarts students and their croaking frog companions, singing holiday classics with a wizarding twist.
Visitor hugging a Minion character at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Seasonal character meet-and-greets

  • Dates: December 1–31, 2025
  • Timings: 10am–6pm
  • Location: Throughout the park
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Meet the Grinch, Max, Minions, and other favorites in festive costumes for memorable holiday photos.
Group shopping at Universal Studios Hollywood with palm trees and shops in background.

Holiday treats & shopping

  • Dates: December 1, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  • Timings: Park hours
  • Location: Food stands and shops throughout the park
  • Included with admission: No (food/merchandise sold separately)
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Indulge in themed snacks, hot drinks, and shop for exclusive Christmas merchandise and souvenirs.
Visitors enjoying ice cream at Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles.

Winter Wonderland photo spots

  • Dates: December 1, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  • Timings: Park hours
  • Location: Universal Plaza, Hogsmeade, Main Street
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Find beautifully decorated backdrops and interactive displays for festive family photos.

Visitor information

Visitors at Universal Studios Hollywood entrance, Los Angeles.
  • Park opening hours: 10am–8pm (extended to 10pm on select dates)
  • Christmas dates: December 1, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  • Grinchmas: 10am–6pm (tree lighting at 5:30pm)
  • Hogwarts Castle light show: 6pm–park close (multiple shows nightly)
  • Best time to visit: Weekday mornings or evenings after 6pm for lower crowds and shorter wait times.
Universal Studios Hollywood timings
  • Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 | [Find on Maps]
  • By Metro: Take the Metro Red Line to Universal City/Studio City Station (10-min walk via pedestrian bridge and shuttle)
  • By bus: Metro Bus lines 155, 224, 240, and 750 stop at Universal City
  • By car: Exit US-101 at Universal Studios Blvd; follow signs to parking structures
  • Parking: On-site parking from $30/day (General Parking), with Preferred and Front Gate options at higher rates. Electric vehicle charging available.
Directions to Universal Studios Hollywood
Neon restrooms sign with reflection in a dimly lit urban setting.
  • Restrooms: Available throughout the park, including accessible and family restrooms in each major area.
  • Lockers: Rental lockers near the entrance and select rides; small ($8), large ($15) per day.
  • Stroller/Wheelchair rental: Available at the park entrance; strollers from $18/day, wheelchairs from $25/day, ECVs from $60/day.
  • Wi-Fi: Free park-wide Wi-Fi; connect to “UniversalGuest.”
  • Gift Shop: Multiple shops, including Universal Studio Store and themed boutiques in Hogsmeade and Springfield.
  • Water fountains: Located near restrooms and main walkways.
Shop at Universal Studios Hollywood
Wheelchair accessible route sign with arrow pointing right.
  • Wheelchair access: Most attractions, shows, and Christmas events are wheelchair accessible; ramps and elevators throughout the park.
  • Step-free routes: Maps and guides available at Guest Services; most main paths are step-free.
  • Accessible restrooms: Available in all major areas.
  • Service animals: Permitted throughout the park and at most shows.
  • Hearing/sensory aids: Assistive listening devices and captioning available at select attractions; sensory guides provided at Guest Services.
  • Special tours: Studio Tour offers accessible trams; notify staff for assistance.
TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D entrance at Universal Studios Hollywood with characters.
  • Event entry: Christmas events are included with admission; some activities (e.g., photos with the Grinch) may require timed reservations.
  • Costumes: Guests may not wear costumes; only children under 13 may wear select themed attire.
  • Photography: Personal photography is allowed, but no flash or tripods inside rides or shows.
  • Food & drink: Outside food and beverages are not permitted, except for dietary or medical needs.
  • Supervision: Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • General: Please respect staff instructions, maintain queue etiquette, and keep noise levels considerate during shows.
Hot chocolate with whipped cream in glass mugs, Christmas lights in background.
  • Three Broomsticks: Enjoy British pub fare and holiday specials in Hogsmeade, including roast dinners and Butterbeer. (~$15–$25 per meal)
  • Mel’s Diner: Classic American burgers, fries, and milkshakes with festive décor. (~$12–$20)
  • Minion Café: Family-friendly meals and seasonal treats in the heart of the park. (~$10–$18)
  • Holiday food stands: Pop-up stalls throughout the park offer hot chocolate, churros, and Christmas cookies.
Dine at Universal Studios Hollywood
Holiday crowds & ticket tips

Christmas is one of the busiest times at Universal Studios Hollywood. Secure your entry and skip the lines by booking tickets in advance-some dates may sell out quickly.

Frequently asked questions about Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas events

Can I book tickets just for the Christmas events without a general admission ticket?

No, all Christmas events and festivities are included with your Universal Studios Hollywood general admission ticket. There are no separate event-only tickets. Check your options here.

Is there a capacity limit for the events?

Yes, the park has a daily capacity limit, and popular dates can sell out. It’s best to book your tickets in advance, especially for weekends and holiday weeks.

Are the Christmas events suitable for children?

Absolutely. Grinchmas, character meet-and-greets, and holiday shows are designed for families and children of all ages, with plenty of interactive activities.

Will the events continue in poor weather?

Most Christmas events are held outdoors and will continue in light rain. However, severe weather may cause some shows or meet-and-greets to be delayed or canceled. Updates are posted at the park and online.

What happens if an event is canceled and I’ve already booked my ticket?

If the park closes or a major event is canceled, Universal Studios Hollywood will provide updates on rebooking or refunds. For individual activities, staff will assist with rescheduling where possible.

Is Universal Studios Hollywood decorated for Christmas throughout the park?

Yes, nearly every area is decorated for the holidays, including themed zones like Hogsmeade, Springfield, and Universal Plaza, with lights, garlands, and festive displays.

Are there special Christmas menus or treats available?

Yes, you’ll find seasonal food and drinks, including hot chocolate, holiday cookies, and themed meals at select restaurants and food stands.

Is there a separate charge for meeting the Grinch or attending the tree lighting?

No, both are included with admission, but meeting the Grinch may require a timed reservation due to high demand.