Magical Holiday Fun at Universal Studios Hollywood: Grinchmas, Harry Potter Christmas & More!
- Angela Cantoni
- 11 hours ago
- 4 min read
Ready to jingle all the way through the most magical time of year? From November 24, 2025, through January 4, 2026, Universal Studios Hollywood transforms into a holly jolly winter wonderland—no snow boots required! With the return of beloved events like Grinchmas, Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and a whimsical holiday twist at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, this is one SoCal holiday party you won't want to miss.
Why Universal Studios Hollywood is a Must-Visit This Holiday Season
There’s nothing quite like spending the holidays at a theme park where the decorations are bigger, the characters are cheekier, and the snow (yes, snow!) falls in sunny California.
Holiday Magic Returns to LA’s Favorite Theme Park
Every corner of Universal Studios Hollywood is decked out in twinkling lights, oversized ornaments, and magical holiday vibes. Whether you're a wizard, a Whovillian, or a Mario Kart champion, there’s festive fun waiting for everyone in the fam.
Mark Your Calendar: Nov 24 – Jan 4
The entire celebration kicks off the Monday before Thanksgiving and rolls all the way into the New Year—perfect for school breaks and family outings.
What’s New This Year
Holiday Cheer in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
This year, even the Mushroom Kingdom gets a sprinkle of snow (and sparkle!). You’ll find adorable Mario and Luigi-themed snowmen and festive decorations that are totally selfie-worthy.
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift Coming 2026
While it’s not quite open yet, Universal dropped the mic with a sneak peek of their new roller coaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, revving up to open in 2026. That Universal Annual Pass is starting to look extra tempting…
Grinchmas: A Whoville Wonderland
There’s a reason “Grinchmas” has become a family tradition. It’s colorful, quirky, and packed with heart!
Meet the Mighty 65-Foot Grinchmas Tree
Straight out of a Dr. Seuss dream, this glowing green tree is covered in wonky ornaments and thousands of LED lights. And every night? There's a tree lighting ceremony with music and snow!
Sing Along with Who-ville’s Best
A Who-ville quartet belts out jazzy harmonies that are as catchy as Cindy-Lou’s smile.
Snap a Selfie with The Grinch & Max
Yes, THE Grinch is there, being his delightfully grumpy self, and Max is the goodest boy. Trust us, this one’s going on the Christmas card.
Who-ville Post Office & DIY Ornaments
Kids (and grownups) can write three good deeds on postcards to mail at the Who-ville post office—talk about feel-good holiday vibes! Plus, you can decorate your own Grinchmas ornament to take home.
Sweet Treats & Grinchy Goodies
There are tons of themed treats—from green cupcakes to peppermint hot cocoa—and exclusive merch that screams "holiday cheer, but make it mischievous."
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Magic and Christmas? It’s a match made in Hogsmeade!
Twinkling Lights, Magical Wreaths & Holiday Magic
The snow-covered village of Hogsmeade gets an even more enchanting makeover with garlands, wreaths, and lights that would impress even Professor McGonagall.
Frog Choir’s Holiday Setlist
Yes, the a cappella Frog Choir returns with carols that would warm even a Dementor’s cold heart.
Hogwarts Castle Light Show
As night falls, Hogwarts Castle turns into a glowing canvas of holiday projection magic—complete with music from the films and visual effects that are nothing short of spellbinding.
Savor That Butterbeer (Hot, Cold, or Frozen!)
No visit is complete without sipping a Butterbeer while watching the snow fall in Hogsmeade.
A Festive Adventure in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
Mario & Luigi Snowmen are Here!
They’re adorable. They’re festive. And they’re the perfect photo op!
Holiday Merch You’ll Actually Want to Keep
Find exclusive holiday goodies at the 1-UP Factory™—perfect stocking stuffers for your little gamers.
Power-Up Bands Just Got Festive
From December 1 to February 28, guests using Power-Up Bands can unlock limited-time digital holiday stamps, such as “Winter Wonder” and “Holiday Party.” Gotta collect ‘em all!
Universal CityWalk: Free Fun Next Door
Don’t forget to stroll through Universal CityWalk for even more seasonal sparkle.
Massive Tree & Lights Galore
The 40-foot tree at CityWalk is wrapped in more than 200,000 LED lights—it’s jaw-droppingly beautiful!
Live Music, DJs, and Street Performers
On select nights, enjoy live entertainment that adds extra groove to your evening.
🎅 Insider Tips for a Merry Day Out
Best Times to Visit? Early December or Weekdays
Avoid weekend crowds and enjoy the lights with shorter lines by visiting on a weekday or early in the season.
Dress Smart: Layers + Holiday Gear
LA weather is mild but evenings can get chilly—bring layers and rock those holiday sweaters!
Find the Best Holiday Treats
Grinch cupcakes, Butterbeer, and themed churros are fan favorites.
Pro tip: grab extras—they go fast!
📸 Don’t Miss These Insta-Worthy Spots
Grinchmas Tree at night
Snowy Hogwarts Castle during the light show
Mario & Luigi Snowmen with the glowing Super Star tree
🗓️ Plan Your Visit Today
Buy your tickets today, check the event calendar, and download the app to maximize your holiday fun.
Takeaway: Add Some Theme Park Magic to Your Holidays
If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the holidays in Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood is delivering the ultimate festive fun! From singing Who-ville carolers and enchanted Hogwarts nights to digital surprises in the Mushroom Kingdom, this celebration is one your family will remember forever. Grab your matching sweaters and get ready for some serious holiday cheer!
FAQs About Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood
1. Is “Grinchmas” included with park admission? Yes! All holiday events, including Grinchmas, are included in your regular park admission.
2. Can I see snow at Universal Studios Hollywood? You bet! Snow falls during the nightly Grinchmas tree lighting and other surprise moments.
3. Is there a separate ticket for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter? Nope! It’s part of the main park and included with your general admission.
4. Are Power-Up Bands required for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD? Not required, but highly recommended for full interactive fun—including those festive digital stamps!
5. What’s the best way to avoid crowds?
Try visiting early in the day, on weekdays, or mid-week in early December before schools let out.
FUN WITH KID IN LA®: Your Ultimate
Destination for Family Fun!
Places to Go . Best of LA . Classes . Camps . Birthdays . Travel . Food . Events
Comments