Bionic Buzz® covered the Holidays at Universal Orlando in Orlando, FL. If you’re looking for the ultimate family-friendly holiday destination, Universal Orlando Resort is hands-down the best place to take your kids during the holiday season. From the moment we arrived, the entire park transformed into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer, heartwarming traditions, and non-stop fun for all ages.

First, let’s talk about the atmosphere. The streets of Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure were decked out in sparkling holiday lights, towering Christmas trees, and larger-than-life decorations. It felt like stepping into a real-life holiday movie set. The whole resort was brimming with the magic of the season, from the snowflakes gently falling in the streets to the warm, inviting aromas of seasonal treats wafting through the air.

One of the highlights of our trip was the incredible holiday shows. “Grinchmas” at Islands of Adventure is a must-see for anyone with young kids (or anyone young at heart!). The live musical performance of How the Grinch Stole Christmas!was spectacular, complete with vibrant costumes, catchy tunes, and plenty of holiday cheer. My kids were absolutely mesmerized, and we couldn’t stop talking about it long after the show ended.

Then, there’s the unforgettable holiday parade. Watching the “Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s” felt like witnessing a magical blend of the classic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Universal’s own brand of excitement. The floats were jaw-dropping, the characters were larger than life, and there were even giant balloons soaring through the sky, making it an experience that felt straight out of a dream. My children loved seeing their favorite characters from the Minions and Shrek, as well as some of the most beloved holiday icons.

Of course, the rides are a major draw at Universal Orlando all year long, but during the holiday season, they take things to the next level. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter transforms into a snowy, enchanted village, with holiday-themed decorations, magical lights, and a special version of the Hogwarts Castle light show. It’s a mesmerizing experience that truly makes you feel like you’re living in J.K. Rowling’s magical universe.

The holiday dining options were also a big hit. We indulged in festive feasts with holiday-themed menus, including delicious turkey dinners, seasonal sweets, and hot cocoa to warm up after a chilly ride on Revenge of the Mummy. And let’s not forget the classic hot butterbeer, which was a favorite treat for the whole family.

But perhaps the best part of all is how family-friendly the whole experience is. The staff was incredibly kind and welcoming, always ready with a smile, and there was so much to do for kids of all ages. From age-appropriate rides to interactive experiences, Universal Orlando Resort offers something for everyone. Whether you’re flying through the air with Spider-Man, racing through Transformers: The Ride, or meeting beloved characters like SpongeBob and Bart Simpson, there’s never a dull moment.

We also loved the holiday shopping opportunities. The gift shops were stocked with exclusive seasonal merchandise, from Grinch-themed toys to Harry Potter scarves and sweaters. My kids had the best time picking out souvenirs to remember the holiday magic.

In summary, Universal Orlando Resort takes the holidays to a whole new level of fun and excitement. It’s a place where memories are made, laughter fills the air, and holiday magic is around every corner. If you want a holiday experience that your kids will cherish forever, this is the place to be. We can’t wait to return next year!

Holidays at Universal Orlando Admission Included with Your Theme Park Ticket or Annual Pass (blockout dates may apply) Event Dates now through Dec. 31, 2024. For more information and to buy tickets please visit: https://www.universalorlando.com/

Review by Steve Sievers of Bionic Buzz.