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Christmas festivities return to Universal Orlando this year including Grinchmas, holiday parade

ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort has announced that their holiday traditions and characters will return “bigger and louder than ever” this year.

The one-of-a-kind festive experiences will last from Nov. 13 through Jan. 2 and bring back popular holiday staples at Universal, which are included with theme park admission.

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Here’s what to expect at this year’s holiday festivities.

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The streets of Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley and London will be transformed with themed decorations, garlands and lights as special holiday-themed performances fill the air.

At Islands of Adventure, guests will be able to see “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” which transforms the landmark with projections of holiday spirit and Christmas moments inspired by the Harry Potter films.

Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

The maven of mischief himself The Grinch will return this year for the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular,” a hilarious live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” starring The Grinch and featuring special appearances by the Whos from Who-ville.

In addition, Seuss Landing will be completely transformed into a holiday wonderland with resident Whos spreading “Who-liday” joy.

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s returns this year, allowing guests to see more than 30 larger-than-life balloons take the streets of Universal Studios Florida alongside beautifully decorated floats and hundreds of festive performers to fill the streets with holiday cheer. Characters from “Shrek” and “Madagascar” will also make appearances.

Santa Claus will also be part of the parade and light Universal Studios’ 80-foot Christmas tree.

Other holiday festivities such as food and beverages and merchandise will be available, as well as strolling carolers, holiday crafts and more.

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.