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A ~Froggy~ Festive Guide to Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort

by Mommy Frog on November 12, 2022 5215 Orlando

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Summary

What better way to bring together minions, wizards, toys and more than during Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort? Even the Grinch can't resist the cheer. After all, the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year (right?!)! During the holiday season from Nov. 12, 2022, to Jan. 1, 2023, Grinchmas and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will spread holiday cheer throughout Seuss Landing, Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Much of the main entertainment returns year after year, but we always notice new details in the decor to keep things fresh. The Universal Orlando Christmas events are included with regular Universal Orlando admission.

Universal Orlando Christmas - Wholiday Spectacular

Overview of the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

With terrific temperatures, decadent decor, scrumptious snacks and endless entertainment, the holiday season is truly the most wonderful time of the year at Universal Orlando Resort. From the theme parks to the hotels, you'll find jolly festivities everywhere you go — even Universal CityWalk has started getting into the holiday spirit. That means you don't even need a park ticket to partake in the resort-wide celebrations!

The holidays are also your last chance to enjoy some beloved attractions in Woody Woodpecker's KidZone as Fievel's Playland, Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster, Curious George Goes to Town, Dreamworks Destination and Shrek and Donkey's Meet and Greet will all permanently close on Jan. 16, 2023, to make way for frogciting new family entertainment. (Our favorite ogres even decked out their swamp for the holiday season!) We can't wait to find out what's going to join E.T. and Spongebob in Lily's favorite section of Universal Studios Florida!

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Universal Orlando Holidays - Christmas in Diagon Alley

You know that feeling you get when you watch a "Harry Potter" movie with your family while drinking hot cocoa on a snowy winter night? That's the feeling you'll get when you see Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Universal Orlando goes all out with the level of detail. Hogsmeade in Universal's Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida both feature festive Christmas decorations — including garland and lights — along the buildings and streets of the Wizarding World.

Be sure to take a closer look at the decorations outside of each storefront! For instance, Madam Malkin's in Diagon Alley sports pink ribbon bows that match the color of Hermione's Yule Ball dress in the display window. The London waterfront is also decked out in traditional Christmas lights and garland as if you've magically been transported to the city itself. We highly recommend visiting during the day so you can notice all of the small details and returning at night to see everything lit up!

Universal Orlando Holidays - Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees

Our fellow froggies, the Frog Choir, perform special concerts in Hogsmeade with Christmas songs straight from the spell books, as well as muggle holiday tunes such as "We Wish You a Merry Christmas." Inside Diagon Alley, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees get in the holiday spirit with a special show. Listen for four original songs, including the super-catchy "My Baby Gave Me a Hippogriff for Christmas." These shows tend to not draw crowds until they've already started. Every view is good, but even if you only arrive five minutes early, you can still sit down on the ground right next to the stage.

Universal Orlando Holidays - The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle

The true showstopper of Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the projection-mapping show on Hogwarts Castle. "The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle" is eight minutes long and plays intermittently from dusk until park close each night. Muggles and wizards alike will be absolutely dazzled to see the castle come alive! There are breathtaking scenes with Hogwarts students dancing at the Yule Ball, Arthur Weasley's flying Ford Anglia plowing into snowmen and more! Even if you aren't a fan of the usual Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle show, we recommend catching the Christmas show. It's gorgeous and captures the unique holiday fun you see in the "Harry Potter" films. We're so hoppy it's returning once again this year!

Grinchmas at Universal's Islands of Adventure

Universal Orlando Christmas - Whoville Citizens

It wouldn't be Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort without Grinchmas! Seuss Landing is the most spectacularly decorated of them all, with so many baubles and tinsel wrapped around just about everything. At night last year, the two white trees near the entrance of Seuss Landing shined bright in many different colors and animations, including the Grinch and Max the dog!

The green sourpuss himself arrives at Universal's Islands of Adventure for some holiday fun, as well! The green guy brings his signature snark during a special meet and greet in his new lair at Honk Honkers. In order to meet the Grinch, you will need to utilize the virtual queue in the Universal app. Times do run out quickly, though additional times may pop up later in the day. When we tried, spots ran out within just nine minutes. We recommend being on Universal Orlando property and start trying at 8:40 a.m. Don't let a "No Times Available" message stop you. Keep refreshing the page. (At 8:42 a.m., we were able to score a Virtual Line pass for 12:10 p.m.) Meanwhile, Who-ville citizens are usually out and about, walking through the land or strolling through The Street of the Lifted Lorax. All of them will hoppily pose for photos with you!

Universal Orlando Christmas - The Grinch

One of our favorite holiday offerings, though, is the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular! In this whoot of a show, talented performers bring the Seuss favorite to life through song and dance. If you'd like to attend, plan to be in line at least 30 minutes ahead of showtime, even if there aren't huge crowds. You do need to walk a fair distance to the theater where it takes place (a space that was previously occupied by Blue Man Group). While definitely a tadpole-centric show, it's still a blast for any fans of the Grinch, who spits out hilarious one-liners. (And OMG ... Max is played by an adorable, live dog. What a good boy!)

We're also so frogcited to once again enjoy The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast this year! This grand feast takes place at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous where the Grinch and his Who-ville friends will visit your table and spread some Who-liday cheer ... and sneers. Enjoy a tasty breakfast buffet with themed food, such as Green Eggs and Ham, and breakfast favorites, including a nonalcoholic beverage and specialty treats. Frogs also get one digital download photo from one character interaction. This character breakfast takes place on select dates from Nov. 23 to Dec. 29 and reservations are required. We recommend getting an earlier reservation time, if possible! Expect to spend at least an hour and up to 90 minutes on this experience. The breakfast promptly ends at noon and reopens to guests as a regular quick-service spot for lunch.

Epic Holiday Offerings & Entertainment at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's

Universal Orlando Holidays - Santa in the Holiday Parade

The highlight of Christmas at Universal Orlando (for us, at least!) is Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's. You can catch some of your favorite Universal characters making holiday mischief, including the minions, Shrek and more. And of course, jolly ol' Santa typically makes an appearance at the parade's finale to light up the Christmas tree.

Universal Orlando Christmas - Shrek and Fiona in Universal's Holiday Parade

If you want a prime spot for Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's in front of the tree, get in place at least an hour early on busy nights. This is especially true on weekends. Our favorite spot is usually across the street from the tree next to The Mummy ride. From this spot, you can watch as Santa lights the tree. This year, we waited longer (almost two hours) in this prime spot, but we think it was busier than usual due to the holiday weekend and it was the first day of the holiday celebrations. Since the parade begins near the Universal Horror Make-Up show, you'll first see the parade about 15 minutes after the parade's official start time. Double-check with team members or the Universal app for the start time, as it can vary by night, but when we visited, it started at 5:30 p.m.

Annual passholders can enjoy a reserved viewing area in front of Mel's Diner, which opens up about an hour before the parade, and space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have little ones under 10, there's a Lil Stars viewing area in front of the Brown Derby Hat Shop in Hollywood.

Mannheim Steamroller Concerts

Universal Orlando Christmas - Snowflakes

Mannheim Steamroller continues to bring the festive sounds of modern Christmas to Universal Studios Florida. These concerts usually take place at 7 p.m. on select Saturdays and Sundays at the Music Plaza Stage. The concert dates this year are Dec. 3, 4, 10 and 11.

Arrive early if you want a sit-down spot in front of the stage. However, you can easily hear the music beyond the concert area, so if you're content with catching a few tunes, stroll by when you have time. (Note that Seasonal Passholders are blocked out of Universal Studios Florida on concert dates.)

Holiday Tribute Store

Universal Orlando Holidays - The Holiday Tribute Store

The Holiday Tribute Store has decked its halls once again! Journey through four festively themed rooms where you'll find popcorn buckets, backpacks, ornaments, spirit jerseys and more lining the shelves — not to mention some deliciously sweet treats. "Welcome Christmas, Christmas Day" in a room inspired by the tinsel-filled town of Who-Ville, embrace the holiday magic in a room inspired by The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, go nuts for the holidays in a room inspired by Universal icon Earl the Squirrel and soak up the nostalgia in a room inspired by New York vintage holiday décor.

Earl the Squirrel Meet and Greet

Universal Orlando Holidays - Earl the Squirrel

Earl the Squirrel comes out of his hiding spot in the big Christmas tree to meet guests near the Hello Kitty store! You can confirm his meeting times in the Universal app, though typically he'll be out about once an hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Holiday Tree Hunt

Universal Orlando Holidays - Holiday Tree Scavenger Hunt

For a fun festive activity, purchase a Holiday Tree Hunt brochure and pencil for $12 to participate in the scavenger hunt for decorated trees across Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk. As a prize, you'll receive a special holiday ornament.

Festive Food and Drinks During the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Christmas - Hot Butterbeer

Drinking Butterbeer is a must-do whenever you visit the Universal parks (did you know there are six different versions?). While you can now get hot Butterbeer year-round, there's no better time to enjoy a delicious cup than when the temperature starts dropping. Think more along the lines of hot chocolate (but butterscotch) rather than a carbonated cream soda, which is what the classic, cold Butterbeer tastes like. You can find it inside The Leaky Cauldron, Three Broomsticks, Hog's Head Pub and the Hopping Pot.

Universal Orlando Christmas - Gingerbread Man Whoopie Pie

All around Universal Orlando Resort, there are specially-themed holiday food and beverages! We can't wait to get our hands on yummy offerings such as Earl's Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Acorn Bomb (available at TODAY Cafe and Battery Park), the Roast Beast Sandwich (available at Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendus) and Santa's Cookies and Milk "Shake" (available at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen). We're also so frogcited to dig into some verdant Grinch-themed treats in Seuss Landing and sip some specialty nog cocktails!

Holiday Celebrations at Universal CityWalk

Green & Red Coconut Club

This past Halloween season, Red Coconut Club got a monstrous makeover and turned into "Dead Coconut Club." A little squirrel told us that the club is getting another merry makeover for the holiday season. We can't wait to try whatever festive concoctions Earl's whipped up for us this year!

Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort Hotels

Any time of year, we absolutely love staying on-site at Universal's fabulous resort hotels, but especially during the holidays. Expect all of the Universal Orlando hotels to be decked out for the holidays, and look out for tree and menorah lightings. Plus enjoy all the trimmings at Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The hotels even offer specially ticketed buffets. Some of the hotel holiday celebrations include live music, hula dancers, balloon artists and even bowling.

Universal Orlando Christmas - Cabana Bay Beach Resort Christmas Tree

If you want to experience the Universal Christmas events during the busiest times, we highly recommend purchasing Universal Express Passes no matter where you stay. You can save money when you purchase this add-on to theme park admission for regular Universal Express (which gives you access one time per participating ride) or Universal Express Unlimited. If you stay on-site at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Universal's Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort, you'll receive the Unlimited Express benefit for all of your party for your entire length of stay. Watch out for the expected busiest days using our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar. We recommend purchasing Universal Express the week of Christmas, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day and on weekends. We cannot underestimate this benefit!

Universal Orlando Christmas - Loews Royal Pacific Resort

If you can't shell out for the Universal Express hotels, jump over to Universal's Cabana Bay Beach ResortUniversal's Endless Summer - Surfside Inn and Suites or Universal's Endless Summer - Dockside Inn and Suites. While they don't offer Unlimited Express, these hotels (and all of Universal's hotels) offer one-hour early admission to a select park. If you stay on-site, you can get a hop on experiencing Christmas in the Wizarding World's holiday magic! What's even more magical is to book your Universal Orlando hotel room at a discount, so hop to it!

New Year's Eve at Universal Orlando Resort

If you're looking for something to do when the clock strikes midnight, Universal Orlando usually offers several different ways to ring in the new year. This year, Universal Orlando resorts are offering several special celebrations on Dec. 31. All of the hotels are hosting a special New Year's Eve or New Year's Day meal. In addition, Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort is hosting a New Year's Eve Spectacular that includes face painting, a balloon artist and a live DJ. This event is complimentary for Cabana Bay Beach guests only. Portofino Bay and the Hard Rock Hotel are also hosting their own parties, which will start at 8:30 p.m. on the Piazza and 6 p.m. in the lobby, respectively.

Our Top Tips for the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Holidays - Family in Christmas Outfits

With so much hoppening at Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure during the holidays, you may be wondering, "Which ticket should I get?" We're very big fans of the Park-to-Park option. With the two parks so close together, it's easy to hop back and forth. The Park-to-Park option offers maximum flexibility to enjoy it all. And it's the only way to experience the Hogwarts Express. So if you want to experience Christmas in the Wizarding World at Hogsmeade and then hop right over to extend the merry in Diagon Alley, you'll need the Park-to-Park ticket.

If you're planning to see all of the holiday festivities in both parks on one day, get a viewing spot for the Holiday Parade in Universal Studios right on the streets of Hollywood! That's where the parade starts, so by the time the last float passes you, you'll have just enough time to speed-hop over and catch the castle show in Islands of Adventure before the park closes.

Feeling like there's too much to see and too little time? Have no fear! We've put together our lists of Holiday Must-Dos at both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios so you can be sure to get your fill of merriment while in the theme parks.

Universal Orlando Christmas - Islands Must-Dos

Universal Orlando Christmas - Studios Must-Dos

Rather not stress about building your own schedule? Well, we're thrilled to report that Universal's Holiday Tour is back this year! Unwrap the holiday magic with this special 2-Park 1-Day tour that includes an exclusive meet and greet with the Grinch and Max, reserved seating for the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, small plates including cookies, Who Hash, Chicken and Waffles, Popcorn Shrimp, plus nonalcoholic beverages and a hot cocoa bar at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous, a Santa meet which includes one My Universal Photos digital download per party, priority access to one attraction and an after-hours showing of The Magic of Christmas as Hogwarts Castle. Tours will include multiple parties in the same tour group and pricing and availability vary depending on the date and product selection. Theme park admission isn't included but reservations are required.

If you need some palm trees and sun with your Christmas vacation, you'll need to find it poolside this season. Universal's Volcano Bay water theme park is usually open in the winter. Don't let the time of year trick you. It's still plenty warm in sunny Florida (especially for you snowbirds) and the hotel pools are heated. (Check out all of our discount Universal Orlando ticket options, and don't froget, we offer discounts on the Universal Orlando hotels too!)

Ready for Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort this holiday season? Pick the best dates to visit using our Orlando Crowd Calendar. Check out our Orlando planning timeline for a stress-free family vacation during the holidays at Universal Orlando Resort and other destinations. And be sure to add Universal Express Passes to your tickets to skip the lines!

Related: Complete Guide to Universal Orlando Events

Hoppy planning!

Keep hopping, Mommy Frog!
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Dec 1, 2017 at 2:54 p.m. Jayne Harrison Says...

Undercover Tourist is one of the most useful, helpful and easy to use blogs available. I have read and used the blog for years both to help plan and purchase tickets for DisneyWorld and Universal Studios.

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Dec 1, 2017 at 2:51 p.m. Michelle Miller Says...

That looks beautiful! I would love to see the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Christmas!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 2:50 p.m. James P Says...

Great article, wonderful place

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Dec 1, 2017 at 2:44 p.m. Rob Zimmerman Says...

Love the holiday pictures

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Dec 1, 2017 at 2:12 p.m. Bethany Says...

It's so beautiful! I wish I was going to Orlando now rather than next month. Someday I'll get there for the holidays!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 2:12 p.m. Dadof3 Says...

So want to go for Christmas!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 1:38 p.m. Barbara Comer Says...

Love Universal! It's one of our favorite theme parks and a great destination for the holidays. We never visit without checking out Undercover Tourist!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 1:25 p.m. Maxine Says...

What a great Holiday resource! I've never done Universal during the holidays and now you've piqued my interest!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 1:23 p.m. Minta Boggs Says...

I bet Christmas time here is amazing!! the lights, decorations and music!! I mean "Wow" it brings out the kid in me! I'm sure my kids would love it!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 1:19 p.m. C Reilly Says...

Wish we could go. Your pics are amazing!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 1:06 p.m. Derry Says...

I wish I could take my sisters here, I’ve told them so much about it but it’s way too expensive for a family of 6 from the UK :( The Harry Potter castle ride is my fave!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 12:59 p.m. Denise Says...

Disney is awesome at Christmas! I can't wait to see it at Halloween next year!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 12:44 p.m. Amber Cameron Says...

I am learning so much and would love going to universal.

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Dec 1, 2017 at 12:31 p.m. Dinah Says...

Would be the perfect weekend getaway for me and the hubby....need to find someone to keep the kids. ????

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Dec 1, 2017 at 12:22 p.m. Andrea Says...

Christmas at Universal (heart heart heart!!!)

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Dec 1, 2017 at 12:15 p.m. Justin Says...

Cant wait to go back

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Dec 1, 2017 at 12:15 p.m. Lina Says...

Truly magical place! Thank you #Undercovertourist for this interesting article and, as usually, your family style review - this what makes your website truly special. I always use you as my first (and only, actually) stop when I plan my family vacations in Orlando. Because of you we went to Disney World twice this year! Happy Holidays to your froggy family!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 12:15 p.m. Froggy Says...

Wish I was in Orlando!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 10:19 a.m. Kim Grissom Says...

Looks like it would be an incredible experience!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 9:46 a.m. Erin Says...

You had me at "hot, cocoa-ey butterbeer"!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 9:15 a.m. Bill Says...

We always use Undercover tourist for our tickets every year and the amazingly website has great tips and we plan our days around the crowd calendar.

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Dec 1, 2017 at 9:03 a.m. Frances Chan Says...

We would love to take the kids to Disney during Christmas time. And love to see all the decorations without snow for once!! Looking forward to see the new Disney after being renovated to Frozen's castle.

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Dec 1, 2017 at 8:55 a.m. Kristina Says...

Lovely! Have never been to Universal around the holidays!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 7:51 a.m. Carizpe Says...

Very informative Guide!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 7:08 a.m. Drooneyef Says...

Wow you make sure that we want to go again to Orlando

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Dec 1, 2017 at 5:54 a.m. Anna-Marie Fuller Says...

I have used Undercover Tourist when we went o Disneyland. Their site is full of tips and tricks that saved us time and money. They also have great day planners!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 5:40 a.m. Joseph Fleming Says...

A great place for the young at heart.

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Dec 1, 2017 at 5:23 a.m. Joseph phillips Says...

Great place, great rides and a great family vacation spot!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 5:14 a.m. Lola Says...

This sounds exciting! Hopefully one day I can go.

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Dec 1, 2017 at 5:14 a.m. Roxanne King Says...

Awesome!!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 4:58 a.m. Karen Says...

Omg, my kids would love this!! And me too!!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 4:47 a.m. Colleen Coghan Says...

Would love to visit Universal have never been!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 4:33 a.m. PostModWoman Says...

This guide is gold! Will be leaving to Orlando next week and I'm so happy to have these guides with me

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Dec 1, 2017 at 4:31 a.m. Elizabeth Kelley Says...

What a special place to visit during the holidays! We cannot wait to see it someday!!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 4:31 a.m. Lora Says...

Would LOVE to take my daughter!!! So pretty!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 4:23 a.m. wharrison Says...

Amazing!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 4:16 a.m. Bharrison Says...

Awesome!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:58 a.m. Steph Says...

Looks incredible. If only Florida wasn’t so far!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:53 a.m. Lovely! Says...

Love!!!!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:48 a.m. SandyR Says...

This looks awesome! Can't wait to visit...

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:45 a.m. Adam Horwitz Says...

Looks cool.

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:41 a.m. Goofy one Says...

Disney is magical!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:32 a.m. Nancy Klein Says...

I have been to Universal, but never during the holidays. This looks very exciting!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:23 a.m. R Barber Says...

Never been but it looks like fun

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:23 a.m. Caitlyn B. Says...

Wow, Christmas at Universal looks amazing. I'd especially love to visit Harry Potter world at Christmas. The Park-to-Park ticket is a great tip!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:21 a.m. Milana Emmanuel Says...

Very helpful! Your posts are great

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:17 a.m. @SavvyJourney Says...

I was there last week! It was beautiful and so much fun!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 3:13 a.m. Nicole Cordani Says...

What a magical experience that will be!!

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Dec 1, 2017 at 2:59 a.m. Grod Says...

I've used undercover tourist a couple times now and have never had any issues! Their info is the best and incredibly helpful during all of our trips. I love this site!

Reply
Dec 1, 2017 at 2:59 a.m. Heather Says...

We love Undercover Tourist! We've always purchased our tickets through them and rely on their tips especially Christmas tips. Also, their crowd calendar and wait times are impeccable!

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