There is nothing quite as awe-inspiring as an Orlando Christmas. While many people head to the area to see the magic of the Disney holidays, they are often overwhelmed by the tremendous crowds at Disney during this time of the year. To experience all the wonder of the Christmas season without getting lost in the crowds, why not give Universal Studios a try?

Incredible decorations, festive lights, and holiday songs greet you along every turn at Universal Orlando Resort. Universal Studios features street performances with memorable characters including those from the Grinch as well as your classic Universal movie favorites. Kids can dance and sing along with their favorite characters at the KidZone Holiday Show and Barney’s Christmas show, ‘A Day In the Park with Barney’. And don’t miss the Blues Brothers Christmas Show, rocking your favorite holiday tunes every night and bringing the snow down on Delancey Street after every show. Literally…..they make it snow. And yes, you’re still in Florida!

One of the coolest things Universal has done is to bring all the favorite floats from this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade down to Orlando. Every night, they use these floats to create their own version of the parade, with fireworks and music. Santa Claus will be there to light the trees and lead the parade too, so if you’ve always wanted to see the Macy’s parade live, here’s your chance.

Universal’s Islands Of Adventure joins in the holiday fun when The Grinch invades Seuss Landing and transforms it into Grinchmas, with Who-ville decked out in holiday lights and decorations. This is an absolute must see: Imagine yourself in the live action movie version of the Grinch, complete with snow and thousands of twinkling lights.

There’s also a live action version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, starring the Grinch himself, featuring music by Mannheim Steamroller.

If you liked Illuminations at Epcot, don’t miss the  Universal 360 Cinesphere Spectacular, bringing iconic Universal special effects to huge, 3D life on spheres across the lagoon along with breathtaking fireworks and laser light displays.

For New Year’s Eve, Universal CityWalk throws a huge blowout celebration, complete with food, drink, and a party in the streets counting down to the New Year.

The Universal Resort hotels also take part in the holiday festivities with festive special events. Celebrate the season Italian-style at the Portofino Bay Hotel, have a rock ‘n’ roll holiday at the Hard Rock Hotel or experience the tropical festivities at the Royal Pacific Resort.

Don’t miss Christmas with a twist of movie magic as only Universal can bring it to you!

While Universal Orlando Florida is home to hundreds of great attractions, there are a few that shouldn’t be missed. Here are some of the very best Universal Attractions that you should check out on your visit:

10. Jaws - This ride at Universal Studios is a classic favorite. You’ll take a boat tour through the harbor, where you’ll be tailed by a certain Great White Shark from movie fame. Some people may call it cheesy, but that’s part of its appeal.

9. CityWalk - This complex of restaurants, shops, and night spots is the first thing you see when you reach the Universal Orlando complex. There’s nothing like spending an evening at Margaritaville, chowing down on a great meal as you watch the crowds go by. Kids and Teens will love shopping at the many trendy stores here, while adults will appreciate the unique nightlife opportunities.

8. Dueling Dragons Coaster - This pair of roller coasters at Islands of Adventure takes riders on a twisting, looping, white-knuckle ride, with the two coasters racing to the finish line. Riders will experience two near collisions, where the trains pass within inches of each other. Be sure to ride both coasters, as they’re totally different experiences. The elaborately themed queue here is half the fun.

7. E.T. Adventures - Another classic favorite for kids and adults alike. You’ll board your bicycle and travel through the woods with E.T. The theming is impressive, and offers a cool, whimsical look inside this beloved movie. When the ride is over, E.T. will greet each guest by name, through the magic of technology.

6. Mythos - This restaurant tucked away inside Islands of Adventure is simply incredible. During a long, hot visit to the park one year, my friend and I simply stumbled upon this place and couldn’t believe out luck. It’s a full service, high-end restaurant serving incredible, creative food in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s also unlike any theme park restaurant you’ll ever see anywhere else. Don’t miss it.

5. The Simpsons Ride - This simulator ride at Universal Studios features America’s favorite cartoon family. Fans of the show will love finally seeing the Simpsons on a ride, and visiting the large giftshop to check out unique merchandise.

4. Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster - This coaster is aimed at children and their parents, and features gentle curves and twists. It’s one of the best children’s attractions at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

3. The Incredible Hulk Coaster - This is the biggest, baddest, and fastest roller coaster Universal has to offer. It is also one of the most popular Universal attractions. The coaster shoots riders from the launching platform at 60 miles per hour, then takes them on a twisting, looping thrill ride. Ride this coaster early to avoid long lines.

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