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Your guide to Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood

Planning a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood this Christmas? From meeting the Grinch at Grinchmas to seeing Hogsmeade dressed up for the holidays, there’s plenty to add to your day. The 2026 holiday season runs from November 21, 2026, to January 3, 2027, with seasonal entertainment, festive decorations, and character appearances across the park.

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.

Christmas brings a festive feel to Universal Studios Hollywood, with holiday decorations, seasonal entertainment, and familiar characters in their holiday best. You can visit the Grinch and his friends at Universal Plaza, explore a decorated Hogsmeade, and look out for seasonal touches in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and Illumination’s Minion Land.

There’s plenty to see during the day, but the park takes on a different feel after dark. You can catch a Grinchmas tree-lighting ceremony or watch The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle, a nighttime projection show. Check the official park app for the day’s entertainment schedule so you can plan your visit around the experiences you don’t want to miss.

Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas events & activities

Grinchmas

  • Dates: November 21, 2026–January 3, 2027
  • Timings: During park operating hours; tree-lighting ceremonies take place in the evening
  • Location: Universal Plaza, Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages

If you love How the Grinch Stole Christmas, make time for Grinchmas. Universal Plaza becomes a festive Who-ville, complete with a 65-foot Christmas tree, colorful decorations, and appearances by the Grinch, his dog Max, and the Whos. You can listen to holiday songs performed by The Fah-Who 4 A’s, catch Cindy-Lou Who reading the classic story, and join in seasonal activities such as decorating paper ornaments.

Stay for a tree-lighting ceremony if you can. The lights, music, and snowfall effect make it a fun way to spend part of your evening. You’ll also find seasonal treats and holiday merchandise available to buy.

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • Dates: November 21, 2026–January 3, 2027
  • Timings: During park operating hours; the Frog Choir performs during the day, and the castle show takes place at night
  • Location: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages

Hogsmeade gets a holiday makeover with twinkling lights, wreaths, and festive decorations. Take your time exploring the village, browse the shops for magical souvenirs, and listen to the Frog Choir perform seasonal songs. You can also try hot Butterbeer alongside the cold and frozen versions.

If you’re staying into the evening, look out for The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle. The nighttime show brings the castle to life with festive projections and music from the Harry Potter films. Check the daily schedule for performance times before deciding when to visit.

Holidays at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

  • Dates: November 21, 2026–January 3, 2027
  • Timings: During park operating hours
  • Location: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages

Even the Mushroom Kingdom gets into the holiday spirit. Look for seasonal decorations near the entrance, including Mario and Luigi snowmen beside a holiday tree topped with a Super Star. While you’re there, explore the colorful world of Mario and friends, visit the 1-UP Factory shop, and browse for Nintendo-themed souvenirs.

Illumination’s Merry Minions

  • Dates: November 21, 2026–January 3, 2027
  • Timings: During park operating hours; check the official app for character appearance times
  • Location: Illumination’s Minion Land, Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages

The Minions are joining the holiday celebrations, too. Illumination’s Merry Minions brings seasonal decorations and holiday-themed character appearances to Minion Land for the first time. Stop by to see the Minions in festive outfits, take photos during character meet-and-greets when available, and check out seasonal bites at Minion Cafe. You can also browse holiday merchandise if you’re looking for a souvenir.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood holiday experience

  • Dates: Check official holiday announcements for the 2026 schedule
  • Timings: Vary by venue and date; check the official calendar before visiting
  • Location: Universal CityWalk Hollywood
  • Admission: Free; shopping, dining, and other purchases cost extra
  • Age restrictions: Open to visitors of all ages, subject to individual venue policies

You don’t need a theme park ticket to enjoy the holiday atmosphere at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. The outdoor dining and entertainment district features seasonal decorations, including a 40-foot Christmas tree illuminated by more than 200,000 LED lights. You can browse the shops, grab a meal, or stop by the 5 Towers stage for live music and other entertainment on select evenings. Check the latest schedule if you’re hoping to catch a particular performance.

Visitor tips

  • Head straight to the Grinch meet-and-greet as soon as the park opens if it’s on your must-do list, since wait times in the Upper Lot can easily stretch to one or two hours later in the day.
  • Plan your evening around the nighttime entertainment, as the holiday experience really comes alive after dark with shows and ceremonies that draw large crowds.
  • Make time to explore Hogsmeade in the evening, when the decorations feel most magical and a cup of hot Butterbeer fits perfectly with the winter atmosphere.
  • Keep an eye out for roaming holiday characters in Universal Plaza, as encounters with the Grinch, Max, and the Whos add spontaneous, festive moments throughout the night.
  • Expect heavy congestion in the Upper Lot after sunset, especially near show locations, and choose less crowded viewing spots or move between areas earlier to avoid bottlenecks.
  • Use the official park app to check showtimes for holiday ceremonies and popular attractions, and structure your day around these fixed schedules to avoid missing key experiences.

Frequently asked questions about Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas events

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