Top 5 Reasons to Visit the Universal Orlando Theme Parks this Holiday Season
By: Heather Carlson
December 4, 2025
1. What’s a better way to celebrate the holiday season than Breakfast with the Grinch? The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast takes place in Universal Islands of Adventure at the Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous. This is a great way to meet the Grinch during the Holiday season without the long lines! There are several different breakfast entrees to choose from along with a variety of beverages. Don’t forget to try the Grinchmas Sour Apple specialty drink! Not only did we have a tasty breakfast with multiple courses; we got to interact with some of Whovillle’s finest citizens. The Who’s that visited our table were both kind and funny and added such a unique, special interaction that it really made this an experience not to be missed! While in Seuss Landing, make sure to catch The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular and enjoy the live, musical story of the Grinch.
2. Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s added the perfect amount of holiday spirit as only a Macy’s Parade can do. If you are a diehard Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade viewer, you will thoroughly enjoy Universal’s version of this holiday classic. Pairing some beloved Universal characters and holiday entertainers with Macy’s Balloon Floats, makes this holiday parade a must see. Make sure you leave enough time to find the perfect viewing spot.
3. The Tribute Store in Universal Studios changes throughout the year. The Holiday Tribute Store is not to be missed! This beautifully decorated store does not just hold a wide variety of specialty merchandise but is a whole interactive experience! Make sure to leave plenty of time to walk through and fully enjoy each section. Last year’s themes included Hogsmeade for Christmas, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Earl the Squirrel. I cannot wait to see what special holiday treats are released for this year!
4. Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter adds an extra special touch to already wonderfully themed areas. Make sure to check out the holiday performance of Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees in Diagon Alley, complete with snow! When you get your last Butterbeer of the evening in Hogsmeade don’t forget to snap some pictures of the beautiful Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle projection show. New this year, wizarding Paris in the new Universal Epic Universe will see holiday décor.
5. It’s the Earl the Squirrel Meet and Greet vs Christmas tree and holiday decor at the Universal Resorts for the number 5 spot! Earl the Squirrel is a beloved Universal mascot and hosts a special Meet and Greet during the holiday season. While he may be a diehard fan favorite, not everyone will be familiar with his story. But everyone can enjoy the beautiful Christmas trees and holiday decorations found at the Universal resorts!
There is still time to plan a holiday adventure to explore the Universal Orlando theme parks and their holiday magic! Please contact me so we can get started!
Heather Carlson
heather@wishesfamilytravel.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/heatherwishesfamilytravel/
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Disclaimer: I purchased my The Grinch and Friends Character breakfast ticket for the retail price available to the general public. The park-to-park tickets were received as part of a FAM training.