From Grinchmas to Hogsmeade, These Are the Things to Do at Universal Studios This Season
Written By: Marissa Stempien
Photography Provided By: Universal Studios Hollywood
Nargles in your mistletoe? A grinch under your Christmas tree? Then it must be the holiday season at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk! To celebrate the magical season, the park will be holding a special Who-lebration for fans of the Grinch, a nightly snowfall in Hogsmeade, have some very merry (but mischievous) Minions scattered throughout the park and decorate a 40-foot tall Christmas tree with nightly lightings. Grab your family (and your muggle friends) and head to Universal Studios Hollywood this season!
Harry Potter fans, mount your Firebolt and head straight to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you’ll be swapping a “Happy Christmas,” with Potterheads from all over the world. To celebrate the holidays in true wizard style, Hogwarts castle is transforming nightly for The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle. The nightly show transforms the magical castle into a digitally-illuminated masterpiece of lights, sound and imagery—all set to your favorite musical moments from the Harry Potter movies. When the fireworks burst over the castle and the Christmas tree lights up, even the most cold-hearted of Slytherins won’t be able to resist shedding a tear at this magical moment.
To keep you in the yuletide spirit, head over to the Three Broomsticks to indulge in some holiday-themed fare and hot Butterbeer (we suggest trying a dessert or two while you’re there!). After, stop at the Hogwarts stage where the acapella Frog Choir of Hogwarts students and their giant, musically-inclined frogs, entertain guests with a setlist of traditional Christmas favorites. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself singing (or croaking) along! And don’t forget to grab a gift or two for under the tree. The park will offer a series of collectable keepsakes this holiday season that include Hogwarts castle snow globes, Hogwarts crest and mascot ornaments, as well as unique tree toppers and house pennant garlands.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas in Hogsmeade without a little snow! Through Jan. 6, “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” will consist of nightly shows, specialty dining, limited-edition gifts, and of course a little seasonal “snow.” Snow will fall over Hogsmeade village every night at 5:15 p.m., so be sure to bundle up in your house colors!
For fans who can’t resist a little Seussian whimsy, skip the Butterbeer and head over to the Who-lebration on the upper lot of Universal Studios! The annual show kicks off the season with performances by Martha May Who-vier and the Who Dolls, and The Who-liday Singers who bring the holiday to life under a towering, 60-foot tall “Grinchmas” tree. Snap a family pic with the Grinch, his dog Max and Whovians during this “Grinchmas” celebration which happens daily from Dec. 14 through Dec. 30.
Of course, you don’t even need to enter the park to celebrate the holidays! On Universal CityWalk an-awe-inspiring, 40-foot tall Christmas tree glitters from top to bottom with 200,000 LED icicles choreographed to the holiday music in the 5 Towers plaza. Plus kids will get what they really want this Christmas (hint: a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood!) as Santa Claus will make daily appearances and offer photo ops to guests at 5 Towers.
Universal Studios Hollywood
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
800.864.8377
With a degree in English Literature and minor in Asian Studies, Marissa loves all things reading, writing and LOCALE. Originally from Santa Barbara, CA, Marissa is an avid traveler, and counts her well-stamped passport and battered suitcase among her favorite possessions. When not online shopping or binge-watching the latest Netflix series, Marissa enjoys writing short stories in her spare time.
