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Home / Blog / Special Events / A Hoppin' Overview of Universal Orlando Resort Events in 2025 and Beyond

A Hoppin' Overview of Universal Orlando Resort Events in 2025 and Beyond

by Mommy Frog on February 4, 2025
1590 Orlando Video

Universal Orlando Special Events 2022 - Pinterest

When 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 want to provide you this complete guide to Universal Orlando events in 2025 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 Jump Start 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.

Complete Guide to Universal Orlando Resort Events

FEBRUARY - MAY

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

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! (This year, get ready to rock out to T-Pain, Joe Jonas, Kool & The Gang, Juanes, Scotty McCreery, Foster The People, Illenium, All Time Low, Lawrence, Coco Jones, DJ Pauly D and TLC.)

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!

Universal Orlando Special Events - Jester Float

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

Butterbeer Season — March 1 to May 31, 2025

Toast to everyone's favorite wizarding beverage and celebrate with seasonal-exclusive Butterbeer treats and specialty merchandise during Universal Orlando Resort's second annual Butterbeer Season. Grab a mug, don your frothy mustache and share a laugh with your hot, cold or frozen Butterbeer in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade. More details will be revealed in the coming weeks!

Grad Bash — April 4, 5, 11 and 25, 2025

High school seniors will have a blast with their friends at this graduation celebration with exclusive, private access to both Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. Plus, they'll enjoy thrilling rides and attractions, street entertainment and more!

Universal Volcano Bay Nights — April 12 and 26, May 3, 10, and 17, 2025

Debuting in 2025, the Volcano God, Vol, is inviting you to splash and play all night long at Universal Volcano Bay Nights. Take in the water theme park's beautiful nighttime lighting as you enjoy reduced wait times on 10 of your favorite rides and unique Universal entertainment, including DreamWorks characters meet and greets, a DJ and games and activities for the whole family! You'll also receive a complimentary Coca-Cola Freestyle souvenir cup and get to enjoy specialty themed island treats and eats. Tickets are now on sale through Universal Orlando Resort! Check out our guide to Volcano Bay Nights for everything you need to know about this wet and wild new event.

Gradventure — May 2, 9, 16 and 17, 2025

Middle school grads will be able to celebrate with their friends as they enjoy complete, private access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure all night long at this separately ticketed event.

Universal Epic Universe Grand Opening — May 22, 2025

Epic universe - Birds Eye View

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 now!

JUNE - JULY

Fourth of July — July 4, 2025

Fourth of July is always a hoppening time at Universal Orlando Resort! Frogs can enjoy high-energy bands, live DJs, meet and greets with beloved characters (including characters from "Despicable Me," "Madagascar" and "SpongeBob Squarepants") and patriotic-themed stilt walkers in Universal Studios Florida and Universal CityWalk. The celebration culminates with a special fireworks display over the Universal Studios Florida lagoon. We can't wait to be back this year!

AUGUST - DECEMBER

Passholder Appreciation Days — Aug. 15 to Sept. 30, 2025

Passholders will be able to enjoy over six weeks of offers, special events and more during this annual celebration of the UOAP family.

Passholder Appreciation Nights — Aug. 15-16, 2025

Universal Orlando Events - Passholder Appreciation Nights

Who wouldn't want to have Universal Islands of Adventure all to themselves? Passholders will get to enjoy their favorite rides and attractions, character appearances, live entertainment and more when the sun goes down.

Halloween Horror Nights (Universal Studios Florida) — Aug. 29 to Nov. 2, 2025

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.

Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort — Nov. 21 to Dec. 31, 2025

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. 23-24, 2026

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. We'll update this blog as soon as we know the rockin' acts performing next year!

Are you planning on hopping to Universal Orlando Resort this year? Which Universal Orlando events in 2025 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!
View Comments

Comments

1151–1200 of 1528 comments
Jun 25, 2019 at 3:03 p.m.
Keshiae Says...

I would love to go to Universal, especially for the Harry Potter special event.

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 3:03 p.m.
schinasi Says...

planning on bringing my boys to orlando from France this summer !!

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Jun 25, 2019 at 3:03 p.m.
Tina E Says...

So many fun things to do this year!

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Jun 25, 2019 at 3:02 p.m.
Kelli Fitzpatrick Says...

Thanks for all of the great information! I’d love to take my kids to Universal Studios someday! ❤️

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 3:01 p.m.
cls mitchell Says...

Just came back from Universal Florida. Aside from the Sunburn at Volcano Bay, it was amazing! Going back next month b/c we said, "Yes" to the UOAP - so worth it!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 3 p.m.
Jamie Says...

Would love to go to universal again. It’s been a few years and they have a lot of new rides.

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Jun 25, 2019 at 3 p.m.
Elaine Says...

Would love to visit for Mardi Gras.

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Jun 25, 2019 at 2:59 p.m.
Courtney Says...

Great deal on tickets!

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Jun 25, 2019 at 2:58 p.m.
amy dowdle Says...

Hoping to get there one day to see the Christmas Parade and the holiday show at Hogwarts.

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:57 p.m.
Shae Says...

Our anniversary is during the Halloween horror nights- how fun would that trip be?!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:56 p.m.
Stephanie Says...

Love your planning info. We always check the site when we are planning trips to Orlando!!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:56 p.m.
genre buoy Says...

Sounds wonderful!

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Jun 25, 2019 at 2:56 p.m.
Olivia Enriquez Says...

I love Universal Orlando. The monster cafe is my favorite place to eat. I cried when I entered Diagonally.

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Jun 25, 2019 at 2:55 p.m.
German Lopez Says...

Oh man ive always wanted to visit Universal Studios during the xmas holidays! I bet its super magical!!

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Jun 25, 2019 at 2:54 p.m.
Belinda A Shepherd Says...

I would love to visit Universal to see Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:54 p.m.
Davsaz Says...

My family always purchases tickets through Undercover Tourist!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:54 p.m.
Natalie Lowe Says...

You guys go above and beyond to deliver detailed vacation information.

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 9:55 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

What a compliment! Thanks Natalie!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:53 p.m.
Jil Says...

Thank you for always keeping us in the know with planning vacations! There are so many helpful tips and money saving opportunities from hotel to entertainment and everything in between!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 9:55 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Thanks Jil! We are hoppy to help :)

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:52 p.m.
Sarah Says...

I would love to take my boys to Universal Florida someday!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:52 p.m.
Nicole W Says...

I loved Universal as a kid, would love to see the new Harry Potter world!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:52 p.m.
Laura Register Says...

Would LOVE to win!!!!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:51 p.m.
Mandy Greer Says...

I love Undercover Tourist! This site has everything you need and more to plan a great Disney vacation. I would love to visit Orlando!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 9:53 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Thanks Mandy!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:51 p.m.
Tenley Says...

Universal looks so fun! Would love to take my daughter someday.

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:51 p.m.
Kara Says...

Great planning info!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:50 p.m.
Mel Says...

The Grinchmas breakfast is a blast! So fun ????

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:50 p.m.
Wally Douglas Says...

All of the great information on Universal and Walt Disney World have really made our planning much easier

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:50 p.m.
yodaspoda Says...

Can't wait to visit Florida again! Last time was almost 10 years ago and I'm sure a lot has changed.

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:50 p.m.
Ian S. Says...

Cant wait to get my Disney and universal tickets!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:50 p.m.
Kim Says...

A great way to save money! Thanks, Undercover Tourist!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:50 p.m.
Parkinson Family Says...

We used Undercover Tourist for tickets to Universal earlier this year. They were absolutely amazing to deal with, and would use them many times over, and recommend them to everyone! Their app and trip tips made our trip even better when planning! Thanks Undercover Tourist, you’re awesome!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 9:52 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Thanks so much, Parkinson Family! Hoppy to help!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:49 p.m.
Lindsy Says...

Thank you for all of the travel tips! They helped make our family vacation a breeze!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 9:53 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Thanks so much, Lindsy!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:49 p.m.
Danielle Searle Says...

Lots of exciting things going on and I love it! These times are usually busier for obvious reasons, but defiantly worth the experience!

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Jun 25, 2019 at 2:48 p.m.
BECKY K. Says...

WOW~!

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Jun 25, 2019 at 2:48 p.m.
KaraLynn Says...

My hubs and I went just the 2 of us and had a blast! Our hope is to go back with my daughter and maybe some extended family

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:48 p.m.
Christina P. Says...

LOVE Harry Potter & Universal Studios!! Undercover Tourist is the best, I purchase all of my theme park tickets through these guys!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:48 p.m.
Scott T Says...

Great stuff at Voo Doo Doughnuts

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:46 p.m.
Cathy Says...

Would love to visit Universal again! So many new things since I was there last!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:45 p.m.
amber Says...

thanks!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:44 p.m.
Codey Whitehead Says...

Thanks for keeping us updated.

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:44 p.m.
Samantha Brown Says...

My son loves Harry Potter and would absolutely love to go to Universal Studios!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:43 p.m.
Scott Says...

Very helpful!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:42 p.m.
Adele P. Says...

I would love to see the Holiday Parade! It looks fantastic.

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:42 p.m.
Stephanie Says...

I would love to visit Universal Studios again! Hoping to win!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:41 p.m.
K.K. Says...

We have always wanted to visit, but never seem to make it down there. Still hoping! The Harry Potter section seems amazing!

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Jun 25, 2019 at 2:41 p.m.
Nic2610 Says...

I'd love to see the Wizarding World decked out for Christmas! What a way to end the year!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:41 p.m.
DGliko Says...

Holiday trip would be fun but not sure about dealing with the crowds!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:40 p.m.
meg30accre Says...

I'd love to go take my kids to Universal!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:39 p.m.
Grace Aquino Says...

can’t wait to come back and visit!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:39 p.m.
leilani vazquez Says...

I'm so excited for Halloween Horror Nights! It's my favorite time of the year!

Reply
Jun 25, 2019 at 2:38 p.m.
Tina Says...

I love going in January, less crowded than December but you still get to enjoy the decorations!

Reply

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