It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better gift to give your children and your inner child than a trip to some of the USA’s best theme parks? They’re must-haves on any itinerary because of the fun attractions that can be enjoyed by tourists of all ages. But during the holidays, each park pulls out all the stops with loads of festivities, photo ops, and themed memorabilia to celebrate the season.
- Disneyland Resort California
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Walt Disney World Orlando
- Universal Orlando Resort
Disneyland Resort California
Make Disneyland part of your holiday traditions!
Disneyland is already known as the happiest place on Earth, but their Christmas magic is unlike any other. There are two parks at Disneyland California and both have their own holiday activities. At Disneyland Park, the Christmas Fantasy Parade and the “Believe… In Holiday Magic” Firework Show are the main events. Join your favorite Disney characters in a festive show of music, lights, fireworks, and more! Some of the park’s iconic attractions have also been reimagined in the holiday spirit, like the Haunted Mansion Holiday, Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, and the “it’s a small world” Holiday.
If you’re heading to Disneyland California Adventure Park, join the party at Disney Viva Navidad for song and dance featuring live musicians. You can enjoy more of the Disney magic and music at the World of Color - Season of Light and Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Maybe the Grinch isn’t so mean after all!
Anyone who’s seen the Harry Potter movies knows that the wizarding world doesn’t hold back when it comes to Christmas festivities. Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter includes holiday performances by the Frog Choir, the Hogwarts Castle decked out in themed decor, and, of course, warm Butterbeer.
Universal Studios Hollywood also celebrates Grinchmas where you’ll be able to meet The Grinch himself, his pet Max, and a bunch of other Who-ville residents. If you aren’t able to make it, you can also write a postcard to The Grinch at the Who-ville Post Office, plus you can make a donation to Schools on Wheels while you’re there to truly get into the spirit of giving.
Walt Disney World Orlando
Walt Disney World tickets are great Christmas presents for your loved ones and for yourself!
Walt Disney World Orlando is the place to be this holiday season. Aside from the spectacular lineup of activities and attractions, the Walt Disney World Resort is also celebrating its 50th anniversary. Expect twice the cheer and twice the fun at any of the four Disney worlds:
- Magic Kingdom - purchase tickets to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, marvel at the castle projections on Cinderella’s Castle, and munch on holiday treats.
- Epcot - enjoy the International Festival of the Holidays, the Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Remix, and live storytelling.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios - join in on For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, Santa Claus Motorcade, and Sunset Seasons greetings show.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom - don’t miss out on the Merry Menagerie, the Santa Claus Festive Flotilla, and the Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition.
Universal Orlando Resort
This holiday parade is larger than life—literally!
If you’re already in Orlando for Walt Disney World, you won’t want to miss out on the festivities at Universal Orlando Resort. Parkgoers look forward to the Universal Holiday Parade every year to see their favorite characters come to life. Get yourself in the Christmas spirit with The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, the holiday experience at Diagon Alley, the live performances at the Music Plaza, and the Holiday Tree Hunt scavenger hunt.
Now that you’ve got an idea about each park’s special activities and attractions, start a tradition of celebrating with family and friends at Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland California, or Universal Orlando Resort!
