The Holidays are in full swing at Universal Orlando Resort. It began December 6th and runs through January 3rd. Kids from one to 92 can watch larger-than-life balloons float through the streets during the Macy’s Holiday Parade, hear Christmas music sensation Mannheim Steamroller perform beloved holiday classics with a modern twist and come face-to-face with The Grinch at Grinchmas. Apart from the special holiday entertainment offerings, the decorations are simply gorgeous. The huge entrance to Universal Studios Florida is adorned with oversized garland and an Elf Float Balloon. It just looks wonderful. Continue reading for a VIDEO recap of all the events during Universal Orlando Holidays.
Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios Florida, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
At Universal Studios Florida, the Macy’s Holiday Parade fills the streets with some of the same balloons seen in the famous New York City Thanksgiving Day parade. Guests are immersed in the spirit of the season with holiday characters, fantasy-filled floats and a tree-lighting ceremony with the big man himself, Santa Claus. Also, guests won’t want to miss the Chloe The Clown “Balloonicle,” a new addition to the parade that combines a towering balloon with a self-powered vehicle that roams the streets of Universal Studios. They also changed the score for this years Macy’s Holiday Parade and it is more magical than ever.
Cloe the Holiday Clown in New York City, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios Florida, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios Florida, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
Happy the Hippo at Universal Studios Florida, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios Florida, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
Following the parade, the acclaimed musical group Mannheim Steamroller will take to the Music Plaza stage in Universal Studios to perform memorable holiday hits on Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21.
At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, I caught the heartwarming live show, “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular,” featuring The Grinch and the Whos from Who-ville, accompanied by an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller.
Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
Guests can meet the mean, green one himself and the Whos daily and, on select dates, enjoy a special breakfast with the characters. Meeting the Grinch in person is always a highlight for me and should be considered a not to miss attraction for you and your family. If you are able to get a few moments to talk with the Grinch, give him a hard time, he will certainly give you one.
Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, photo courtesy Universal Orlando Resort
All theme park holiday entertainment – including Mannheim Steamroller concerts – is included as part of park-to-park or multi-day admission to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
DISCLOSURE: Adventures by Daddy was hosted by Universal Orlando Resort for the purposes of experiencing Universal Orlando Holidays and sharing this recap. However, all opinions expressed are those of the author. For more family travel news, reviews, and trip reports, be sure to follow Adventures by Daddy on twitter and “like” our facebook page too.
In the first picture, I’m proud to say that I was the pilot for CJ the Elf, and my opening day team was phenomenal!! <3