During the holiday season, Universal Studios Hollywood turns into a festive hub of cheer and excitement for all. From Friday, November 29 through Monday, January 6, you can expect to encounter a magical transformation – the entire park is decorated with holiday-themed lights and ornaments, and attractions come alive with seasonal décor.
Visitors can look forward to special holiday shows and entertainment, like character meet-and-greets with your favorite personalities as well as a wide selection of special merchandise. Keep an eye out for themed zones that bring the spirit of the holidays to life with activities and interactions suited for all ages.
Special holiday performances add a jolly touch to familiar attractions, providing a fresh experience even for returning visitors. It’s an opportunity to enjoy a beloved theme park with a distinctly festive spin, set against the backdrop of Los Angeles’ pleasant winter weather.
The dining and shopping areas in Universal Studios Hollywood offer holiday-themed menus and exclusive merchandise. You can sample seasonal treats and find unique gifts to remember your visit and check everyone’s wishes off of your list!
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What’s on at Universal Studios Hollywood
As Universal Studios Hollywood transforms over the holiday season, its special festive atmosphere isn’t the only reason to visit – there is a whole lineup of events and experiences to look out for!
GrinchmasTM brings the classic Dr. Seuss story to life, complete with the Grinch, Whos from Who-ville, and themed decorations – including a 65-foot tall Christmas tree. Read a merry story or two with Cindy-Lou Who in English and Spanish. Enjoy live performances, craft a homemade ornament and get a chance to meet the grumpy green character himself or his sidekick Max!
The Tree Lighting Ceremony at Grinchmas adds another layer of holiday excitement and cheer. A towering tree, adorned with shimmering ornaments and twinkling lights, becomes the star of the show in a colorful display every 45 minutes each night until closing time.
In The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM at Universal Studios, you’ll find garlands, lights, and holiday decor that embellish the streets of Hogsmeade. Attend a themed nighttime show, where music and light projections illuminate the skies above Hogwarts Castle for “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle”, happening each night from dusk to close.
Special events at Universal Studios Hollywood
At Universal Studios Hollywood during the holiday season, you can join in on bunches of festive fun!
Listen to a medley of a cappella holiday favorites from the Frog Choir at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter as you sip a delicious butterbeer from the Three Broomsticks – the perfect combo for witches, wizards and Muggles alike! Wander through the shops of Hogsmeade to find enchanting gifts and exclusive keepsakes to remember your visit.
The park lights up with holiday decorations, and Illumination’s MinionsTM add a playful spirit, with costumed appearances and rides that bring Gru and the gang to life. Families will find opportunities for creative photos and holiday snacks. As the year winds down on December 31st, New Year’s Eve at Universal Studios Hollywood turns into a celebration. Live music, special entertainment, and unique dining experiences usher you into the new year. Throughout the park, ring in NYE with sparkling lights, seasonal decor, and themed merchandise to welcome 2025!
Take Christmas card-worthy photos
twinkling lights and cheerful displays. Look out for characters sporting their holiday outfits, which make for fun photo opportunities.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter offers you the chance to strike a pose in Hogsmeade village decked out in holiday décor, complete with seasonal window displays. Pop into any shop to purchase exclusive Harry Potter merchandise to sport authentic robes, scarves and wands for this year’s Christmas card.
A tree adorned with a Super Star topper, festive wreath and two snowmen—one donning a red Mario hat and scarf and the other a green Luigi hat and scarf make for a memorable photo op in SUPER NINTENDO WORLDTM.
Coordinate family outfits, gather the little Whos in your life and stand beneath the giant Christmas tree for Grinchmas for the perfect photo op. Then, enjoy steaming hot cocoa, delicious cupcakes, and whimsical mocktails as a sweet treat.
CityWalk-ing in a winter wonderland
Head over to Universal CityWalk to see the impressive 40-foot Christmas tree with 200,000 shimmering LED lights and spot King Kong dangling from the rafters wearing a giant Santa hat!
The many restaurants in CityWalk feature special holiday menu items, like Antojitos, NBC Sports Grill & Brew, and Vivo, offering drinks and dishes with seasonal flavors like apple, ginger, and peppermint.
If you seek sweet treats, Voodoo Doughnut and the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium offer unique and eye-catching holiday desserts.
Take care of some of your holiday shopping at CityWalk. With stores like the Universal Studio Store and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD STORE offering unique holiday gifts to place under the Christmas tree and keepsake souvenirs that make excellent stocking stuffers. You’ll find the perfect gift for all of the Universal Studio fans on your nice list!
Have yourself a merry little Christmas or ring in 2025 on New Year’s Eve with tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood!
Please note: prices, times, dates, entertainment, event and/or experience details are subject to changes and/or cancellation without notice.
