Planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood during the holidays? You’re in for such a treat. I’m spilling all the details on the best Christmas activities you absolutely need to experience.
This list of things to do on at Universal Studios Hollywood at Christmas was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
We first visited Universal Studios Hollywood at Christmas back during the tail end of the pandemic when masks were still required everywhere.
Our kids had just started getting into Harry Potter (finally!), so the timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
They were beyond excited to get their personalized robes at the gift shop in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. And you know I’m all about family matching outfits, so we wore matching Harry Potter t-shirts that day.
I was SO glad we threw plaid jackets on top though, because it got way colder than I expected once the sun went down.
If you’re looking for a festive way to spend your holiday break, Universal Studios Hollywood at Christmas is absolutely magical.
Between the Grinchmas celebrations, Hogwarts all decked out, and tons of specialty Christmas food, it’s become one of our favorite holiday traditions.
When is Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood?
The 2025 holiday celebration runs from November 24, 2025 through January 4, 2026. Everything is included with regular park admission, so you don’t need a special ticket.
Get Discount Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets
Before you go, grab your tickets through Get Away Today. They consistently have the best prices, and their customer service is incredible.
We use them for all our Southern California trips. They offer layaway plans, which is super helpful for families. Plus, they do tickets for Disneyland and LEGOLAND California, which are also amazing things to do in Los Angeles with kids.
Check the latest Universal Studios Hollywood rates and availability here.
If you think you’ll visit more than once this year, look into whether the Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Pass is worth it for your family.
Want help planning your entire Southern California trip? Check out my free email course on how to plan a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood like a pro.
What’s the Weather Like in December?
Here’s something that surprised me as a Pacific Northwest family: Los Angeles gets pretty chilly in December.
I know, I know. Everyone assumes Southern California is warm year round. But trust me, you’ll need layers, especially after sunset.
December temperatures in LA typically range from upper 60s during the day to lower 40s in the evening. Check the forecast right before your trip, but plan to bring jackets just in case.
What to Wear to Universal Studios Hollywood at Christmas
Let’s talk outfits! I saw so many creative holiday looks during our visit.
Grinch Outfits (The Best Choice!)
The Grinch is basically the star of Universal’s holiday celebration, so wearing something Grinch-themed is perfect.
For kids, I love this kids’ Grinch holiday sweater, these kids’ Merry Grinchmas t-shirts, and this adorable Grinch tutu outfit for toddlers.
Adults can rock this men’s Grinch t-shirt, women’s Grinchmas sweater, women’s Grinch Life sweatshirt, or women’s Merry Grinchmas sweatshirt.
Harry Potter Christmas Gear
You can buy the famous Harry and Ron Christmas sweaters at the gift shop in the park. Or grab the sweatshirt versions on Amazon before you go.
Other cute options include this I’d Rather Stay At Hogwarts This Christmas or this Hogwarts Christmas shirt.
Minion Christmas Shirts
If you want to coordinate as a family, these Minion Crew Neck Christmas sweatshirts are super cute.
Skip the Disney Gear
This is a big one: don’t wear Disney Christmas shirts to Universal. It’s sort of an unwritten theme park rule. You’ll definitely get some looks from other guests.
Save your Disney gear for when you visit Disneyland at Christmas instead.
Grinchmas at Universal Studios Hollywood
Okay, now for the good stuff! As a family travel blogger, I have to tell you that Grinchmas is absolutely adorable.
Meet the Grinch and Friends
You can meet the Grinch himself, plus his dog Max and other Who-ville residents. The photo ops are fantastic.
There’s a daily tree lighting ceremony featuring a massive 65-foot Seuss-inspired Christmas tree covered in hundreds of ornaments. And yes, there’s “snow” that falls around the area. It’s so magical.
Cindy-Lou Who reads “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” during daily story time, which is perfect for younger kids.
Families can also write messages of holiday cheer on postcards and mail them from the Who-ville post office. My kids loved this activity.
Grinchmas Food and Treats
There are tons of sweet holiday treats and hot cocoa options throughout the Grinchmas area. The themed food is always Instagram-worthy.
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
If you’ve read the Harry Potter books or seen the movies, you know the Hogwarts holidays are spectacular. Universal Studios Hollywood really brings that magic to life.
The holiday decorations are incredibly detailed. There’s “snow” on Hogwarts castle and the Hogsmeade rooftops. Every shop in Hogsmeade is decorated with greenery and twinkling lights.
Special Holiday Events
During the day, catch concerts by the Holiday Frog Choir. They perform holiday classics that definitely get you in the festive spirit.
The Hogwarts lighting ceremony is a must-see. This laser and light show happens in the evening, and it’s absolutely worth finding a good viewing spot early.
All the shops in Hogsmeade sell special holiday merchandise like personalized Christmas ornaments and notebooks. Honeydukes has seasonal candy that makes great gifts.
The combination of lights, festive decor, and snow above Hogwarts castle truly captures the magic of the holidays.
Holiday Food at Hogwarts
Want to eat like Harry Potter at Christmas? The Three Broomsticks serves a full English holiday feast. You can try things like Beef Wellington, which is such a treat.
But my absolute favorite? Hot Butterbeer. When the sun goes down and you need to warm up, hot Butterbeer is perfection. I’m seriously dreaming about it right now.
You can also get cold or frozen Butterbeer if you prefer, but during the Christmas season, hot is the way to go.
NEW: Holidays at Super Nintendo World
This is exciting news for 2025! Super Nintendo World is celebrating Christmas for the second year.
You’ll find Mario and Luigi snowmen wearing their signature red and green hats and scarves. There’s a Christmas tree topped with a Super Star. The whole Mushroom Kingdom has festive garlands and wreaths.
Princess Peach’s Castle gets decked out with holiday decorations. Toadstool Cafe serves seasonal treats (reservations recommended). And there’s exclusive holiday merchandise you can only get during the Christmas season.
Other Fun Things to Do at Universal Studios Hollywood
Beyond the Christmas festivities, there’s so much to do at Universal Studios Hollywood with kids.
Best Rides for Kids
Universal Studios Hollywood has plenty of kid-friendly rides. Always check height requirements before getting in line.
Our favorites include:
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (40″ minimum height)
- Flight of the Hippogriff (39″ minimum height)
- Silly Swirly Fun Ride (only for kids under 48″)
- The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash (34″ minimum height)
- The Simpsons Ride (40″ minimum height)
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey requires 48″ height, but you can still walk through the castle and exit before the ride. The castle walk-through alone is worth it.
Don’t Miss the Studio Tour
The 60-minute Studio Tour takes you through 13 city blocks of backlots. You’ll see real movie sets and experience a few attractions along the way.
We like doing the Studio Tour in the afternoon so our kids can sit and rest after walking around all morning.
Play Areas for Toddlers
Super Silly Fun Land in the Upper Lot is Minion-themed and perfect for little ones. It’s designed like the seaside carnival from the movie.
DinoPlay in the Lower Lot has a fossil dig site, jungle climber, rope bridge, and a full-size T. Rex skull. Great for Jurassic Park fans.
Character Meet and Greets
You’ll find characters all over the park. My kids always love meeting the Minions in the Upper Lot.
We’ve also met characters from Trolls, The Simpsons, Shrek, and Scooby-Doo.
Down in the Lower Lot, Transformers like Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and Megatron rotate throughout the day. The Raptor Encounter is super cool too.
Shows Worth Watching
Sometimes you just need to sit down for a while. The WaterWorld show has amazing special effects. Our kids were mesmerized (and they’ve never even seen the movie).
Universal’s Animal Actors show features trained pets doing tricks. It’s only 20 minutes, perfect for shorter attention spans.
The Special Effects Show is awesome for kids who want to know how movies are made.
Amazing Photo Opportunities
Beyond all the holiday decorations, there are tons of Instagram-worthy spots throughout the park.
The Wizarding World has so many magical backdrops. Don’t miss getting a photo with Ron’s flying car.
Want to capture your family memories professionally? Use Flytographer to book a family photo session at Universal Studios Hollywood. Save $20 when you book through my link. As a family travel expert, I can’t recommend Flytographer enough for vacation photos.
Where to Stay Near Universal Studios Hollywood
There are several hotels within walking distance of Universal Studios Hollywood. Unlike Disney, these are regular hotels without character theming.
Sheraton Universal Hotel
This is our go-to because it’s only a 5-minute walk to the park. The Sheraton Universal Hotel on Expedia has outdoor pools, laundry facilities, and a restaurant. But honestly, the location is the biggest perk.
Check current rates and availability for Sheraton Universal Hotel.
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City
Another solid choice at just a 7-minute walk. The Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City on Expedia has an outdoor pool, cribs, extra beds, and a restaurant.
Check current rates and availability for Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City.
Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas FAQs
Is Universal Studios Hollywood open on Christmas Day?
Yes! The park is open on Christmas Day. Expect it to be busy, so plan accordingly and check park hours before you go.
Can you see Santa at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Santa isn’t inside the park, but you can find him on CityWalk right outside the park entrance.
Final Thoughts on Universal Studios Hollywood at Christmas
Universal Studios Hollywood during the holidays is such a magical experience. The special food, incredible photo opportunities, and adorable decorations make it worth the trip.
If you’ve been to Universal Studios Orlando at Christmas, the Hollywood version has its own unique charm. Both are fantastic for holiday celebrations.
The best part? Spending quality time with your family and making memories that’ll last forever.
Want more help planning your Southern California adventure? Don’t forget to grab my free Universal Studios Hollywood planning guide.
Looking for things to do in the area? Check out these other great Los Angeles family activities and tours on Viator or family-friendly Los Angeles tours on Get Your Guide.
Happy holidays, and enjoy all the Christmas magic at Universal Studios Hollywood!
Looking for more SoCal theme parks? Check out my guide to Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood, tips for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood with kids, Universal Studios Hollywood vs Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, guide to LEGOLAND California, Disneyland vs LEGOLAND, and how many days to spend at Disneyland!
