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Home / Blog / Special Events / A Hoppin' Overview of Universal Orlando Resort Events in 2024

A Hoppin' Overview of Universal Orlando Resort Events in 2024

Universal Orlando Special Events 2022 - PinterestWhen it comes to putting on spectacular events, Universal Orlando Resort doesn't hold back. Universal Studios Florida has long been home to one of the nation's premier events — Halloween Horror Nights. If scary isn't your style, you'll find other year-round, family-friendly Universal Orlando events such as Mardi Gras and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Our Frog Family leaps at the chance to experience as many of the annual events as we can, and we know yours will, too!

We wanted to provide you this complete guide to Universal Orlando events in 2024 and beyond because the Universal Studios concerts, parties, festivals and events are some of the best reasons to visit! You will find more resources and tips for planning your Universal Orlando Resort trip inside our Orlando Planning Guide. You'll also find all of the Universal Orlando events listed on our Crowd Calendar, which is the easiest way to see the best times to visit. Note: These Universal Orlando Resort events appear in the order that they are held throughout the year. We don't yet have confirmed dates for all of the events, but we'll add them to this page as soon as they become available!

Complete Guide to Universal Orlando Resort Events in 2024 and Beyond

SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER

Halloween Horror Nights (Universal Studios Florida) — Aug. 30 to Nov. 3, 2024

The biggest Universal Studios Florida event of the year is held on select nights every fall. For horror fans and those of you who just like to be scared, Halloween Horror Nights is not to be missed! The park is transformed from a bubbly theme park into a place of terror. "Scare zones" are set up while creatures roam about. Think you're safe? Ha! You might just find a zombie breathing down your neck. The big lure of the night is the movie set-quality haunted houses themed around popular TV shows, classic and current films and sometimes even video games or music videos.

Universal Orlando Events - SURR3AL

This event is not intended for children and is a separately ticketed event. In fact, you'll probably need our Halloween Horror Nights guide just to make it through the night. Prepare yourself for Halloween Horror Nights with walkthroughs of some of the haunted houses on our YouTube channel.

Wonderful "Wicked" Offerings at Universal Orlando Resort — Late October

Get ready to "defy gravity" as Universal Orlando celebrates the upcoming cinematic event based on the beloved Tony Award-winning musical. Starting in late October, you'll be able to step into the fantastical land of Oz in the most magical way! Wicked: The Experience (housed in the former location of the UNIVRS store and adjacent retail locations) will whisk you along the yellow brick road and into a variety of memorable moments and iconic locations film, from Shiz University to the Emerald City. Here you'll find fanciful costumes and props created by the designers of the film alongside a frogciting variety of merchandise including elevated apparel, home goods, accessories, toys and more.

Universal Orlando Events - Wicked LEGO

Shop the Shiz University Collection, inspired by the famed school where Glinda and Elphaba cross paths, featuring back-to-school must-haves, such as Spirit Jerseys, duffle bags and tumblers. Add to your MinaLima collection with apparel, accessories, home goods and more donning "Wicked"-inspired graphics and prints developed by the legendary studio. You'll even find products from "popular" brands, such as Mattel, Funko, LEGO and Loungefly, as well as cosplay and prop replicas from The Noble Collection!

Universal Orlando Events - Wicked Drink

Hungry for more? Be sure to try the "fantabulous"-themed limited treats inspired by the world of "Wicked" that will be available at Voodoo Doughnuts and The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. And don't froget to see "Wicked" when it flies into theaters Nov. 22, 2024.

NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort — Nov. 22 to Dec. 31, 2024

Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure)

Universal Orlando Events - Celestina Warbeck

Holiday wishes do come true! Muggles can experience Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley trimmed with festive holiday decorations. Even the shops of the Wizarding World are trimmed! There are holiday-themed food and drinks, as well as entertainment.

Universal Orlando Events - Christmas at Hogwarts

The highlight of Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a holiday show taking place on Hogwarts Castle. This incredible experience uses mapped-projection technology to "cast a spell" onto the castle and features iconic moments from the films.

Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's (Universal Studios Florida) 

Cap each night off at Universal Studios Florida during the holiday season with Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's as larger-than-life balloons and floats fill with favorite Illumination and DreamWorks Animation characters. During the parade, guests will see the Minions, Shrek, "Madagascar" characters and more. Santa also attends so he can light up the New York Christmas tree!

Grinchmas (Universal Islands of Adventure) 

Universal Orlando Events - Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular

For those of you who love the Grinch, there is no finer time to visit Universal Islands of Adventure than during Grinchmas. Seuss Landing is transformed into the wonderful world of Grinchmas with the heartwarming live show, "Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular." The show features some of your favorite Grinch characters. It's also set to music recorded by Mannheim Steamroller. Guests can also get up close and personal with the Grinch himself for pictures or autographs at Honk Honkers.

JANUARY

Rock the Universe (Universal Studios Florida) — Jan. 24 to 25, 2025

A separately ticketed special event, Rock the Universe is Florida's biggest Christian music festival. Universal Studios Florida closes at 6 p.m. for the event, but guests with concert tickets can enter the park starting at 4 p.m.

FEBRUARY - MAY

Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval (Universal Studios Florida) — Feb. 1 to March 30, 2025

Universal Orlando Special Events - Jester Float

This Universal Orlando rite of passage takes place each spring on select dates at Universal Studios. Highlights of this family-friendly event include the Mardi Gras parade through the park and live concerts. With flashy floats created by Kern Studios, the company that has created Mardi Gras floats in New Orleans since 1947, this event is as authentic as it gets (while still remaining kid-friendly)! You can check out authentic New Orleans bands. Plus there are Universal Studios concerts from big names in rock, pop, country and more! (In 2024, we rocked out to Walker Hayes, The All-American Rejects and Ava Max! Leap and I truly lived our best lives.) There is always plenty of Cajun food and drinks to fill you up, as well as tons of international offerings so you can taste how countries and cultures around the world celebrate the Carnaval season. Check out our tips for Mardi Gras at Universal Studios for more deets!

Mardi Gras at Universal Studios is included with regular park admission. See all of the partying for yourself!

Universal Epic Universe Grand Opening — May 22, 2025

In our humble froggy opinion, we consider the opening of a brand-new theme park as a special event. Well at least, it's a special event that doesn't hoppen often — but when it does, it's pretty epic. Universal Epic Universe opens May 22, 2025, with portals to five new immersive worlds. Discount tickets through Undercover Tourist are available as of Oct. 22, 2024.

JUNE - AUGUST

Fourth of July Celebration (Universal Studios Florida) — July 4, 2025

Fourth of July is always a hoppening time at Universal Studios Florida! Frogs can enjoy a high-energy band, live DJ, meet and greets with beloved characters (including characters from "Despicable Me," "Madagascar" and "SpongeBob Squarepants") and patriotic-themed performers and stilt walkers. The celebration culminates with a special fireworks display that frogs can view from anywhere in the park. All holiday activities are typically included with admission to Universal Studios. We can't wait to be back this year!

Are you planning on hopping to Universal Orlando Resort this year? Which Universal Orlando events in 2024 and beyond are you most looking forward to attending? Stop by the comments to tell us below!

Related: Halloween Horror Nights Orlando Survival Guide

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

Hoppy planning!

Keep hopping, Mommy Frog!
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Comments

651–700 of 1528 comments
Jun 29, 2019 at 10:48 p.m.
Cayla Says...

I hope I can go someday!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 10:29 p.m.
Brittani Says...

I can't wait to visit again!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 10:22 p.m.
Jenn Says...

Love all of the information, and we always get our tickets through you!!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 10:11 p.m.
Stacy philip Says...

This is just what I need I’m so unorganized thank you

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 10:03 p.m.
Amy Z Says...

Haven't visited, but this is a bucket list trip for me!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 9:54 p.m.
Janice Myers Says...

We have never been to universal but i love all the info I get here for planning for the future!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 9:03 p.m.
Chyna sowell Says...

Hoping to win this amazing sweepstakes! Just a college student with a massive love for Harry Potter and all things universal!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 8:56 p.m.
Holly Says...

We hope to visit Universal Studios again soon!!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 8:52 p.m.
Christina Dominguez Says...

I am a Disney girl at heart and I wasn't super excited to go to Universal Studios but I was proven wrong. Universal is absolutely amazing! I can't wait to go back!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 8:49 p.m.
Hammer Says...

Looks fun!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 8:48 p.m.
Shawna Says...

Wow! Such a fun place to visit with my family! I'd especially love to visit Universal Orlando in the Summer or during December!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 8:41 p.m.
fp falcon Says...

ganar

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Jun 29, 2019 at 8:28 p.m.
Kareema Dunbar Says...

Very informative.

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 8:02 p.m.
Hil Says...

Love christmas & harry potter!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 7:51 p.m.
Leigh Says...

Excited to plan our first Universal trip in December!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 7:42 p.m.
Kssmith Says...

Trying to figure out a budget to do Universal.

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 7:36 p.m.
Lorraine millan Says...

Wow amazing so many things to do

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Jun 29, 2019 at 6:39 p.m.
Amber Haynie Says...

Cant wait for our trip in October. We are so excited!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 6:34 p.m.
Steve Says...

here for my entry

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Jun 29, 2019 at 5:47 p.m.
EllenP Says...

Looks like so much fun. I can’t wait to go!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 5:38 p.m.
Sara Says...

Thanks for the holiday time tips. We are planning a November trip and this really helps

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 5:36 p.m.
Ruth D Says...

Thanks, great info

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 5:32 p.m.
Dafna Karikari Says...

Love Harry Potter world!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 5:15 p.m.
Felicia Schrag Says...

Can't wait to go for new years!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 5:05 p.m.
DeeBee Says...

We'll have to check out Mardi Gras for 2020!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 5:05 p.m.
Lee Morelli Says...

USF & Undercover Tourist are the BEST

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 4:45 p.m.
April Bonise Says...

I'm a huge Harry Potter fan. Can't wait to see the wizarding world when we go to California in the summer ???? these blogs are helpful to learn what's coming up and what things to do

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 4:41 p.m.
Ryn Says...

Can't wait until the next trip back to Universal!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 3:34 p.m.
Samantha Says...

Universal sure has a lot of really cool things planned out, each looks like so much fun!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 3:29 p.m.
Georgia Martin Says...

Will be purchasing my Disney tickets soon, universal studios is awesome.

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 3:23 p.m.
Kerri Capece Says...

One Day we'll make it there! One day!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 3:22 p.m.
Chrissy N Says...

Happy holidays

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 3:13 p.m.
Jordan Bryant Says...

Can't wait for my trip in July!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 2:49 p.m.
Terra Silva Says...

Looks like so much fun! There is something very cool to do every month so no matter when you go it will be amazing! Thanks for all the great info!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 2:41 p.m.
kim Says...

Thank you for the information.I love Disney World and one day I'll visit.

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 12:52 p.m.
Rebecca Henson Says...

Great Blog! Love all the info I found here!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 12:51 p.m.
Allyssa Wheaton-Rodriguez Says...

I wish we lived closer. It all looks fantastic. The last time we were there during Halloween, I really wanted to do the Universal Halloween nights, but my children were too young. When they are teenagers!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 12:40 p.m.
Charlie Says...

This is great!

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Jun 29, 2019 at 12:36 p.m.
Keri Says...

This is great. I would love to visit the universal parks again.

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 12:13 p.m.
Rebecca Krempasky Says...

I would love love love to see all the Halloween fun. Favorite time of the year

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Jun 29, 2019 at 9:47 a.m.
Yoni Sade Says...

Awesome site!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 7:40 a.m.
Cynthia Tomblin Says...

I have always wanted to go and I am looking forward to my trip on what i have planned.

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 6:10 a.m.
Becka Says...

Planning for 2020.....yay. guide is so helpful. Never been to the World...just the Land.

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 6:06 a.m.
Finfam4 Says...

We just started planning for our WDW vacation, our first!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 5:55 a.m.
Giovanna Furbush Says...

Thanks!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 4:49 a.m.
Mitchell Says...

Thanks, looks awesome

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 4:32 a.m.
Marcie Says...

HHH, lets GO!

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 3:56 a.m.
Marian Says...

I love living so close to theme parks can’t wait for all these events

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 3:15 a.m.
Becky R. Says...

Great guide! Wish we could go there, my son would love it.

Reply
Jun 29, 2019 at 1:44 a.m.
Kara Marks Says...

I’d love to win this trip!

Reply

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