When is the best time to visit the Universal parks in Orlando? … well, it depends - what’s your favourite event?
Universal hosts special events throughout the year, of course, Mardi Gras and Halloween Horror Nights are probably the most popular, but there’s more than those two.
Whether you intend to go the parks when your favourite event is on - or you want to avoid them, and avoid the peak crowds, knowing what’s going to be on at the parks is vital to planning a successful trip.
Here, we take a closer look at the Universal Florida events calendar.
Universal Mardi Gras: February 1 to March 30
Celebrate spring in style with the vibrant festivities of Universal Mardi Gras.
This event runs daily from February 1 through March 30 and is included with regular theme park admission.
Universal Mardi Gras transforms Universal Studios Florida into a colourful celebration of cultures. It features dazzling parade floats, and this year includes live concerts - by top artists like T-Pain and Joe Jonas - as well as mouthwatering cuisines from around the world.
Guests can to catch the Mardi Gras beads flying from the parade floats and indulge in classic Cajun dishes like jambalaya, along with internationally inspired dishes.
Universal’s Mardi Gras brings lively energy, but also family-friendly, atmosphere, Mardi Gras is a can’t-miss experience for visitors of all ages.
Butterbeer Season: March 1 to May 31
Harry Potter fans, rejoice!
Butterbeer Season comes to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter this Spring, and it is a chance for guests to indulge in some special treats based on Universal’s favourite flavour.
Running from March to the end of May, and included in the regular theme park admission, it is a great extra experience on your theme park day.
Butterbeer Season serves up the classic cold, frozen, and hot Butterbeer drinks, as well as exclusive versions of Butterbeer ice cream, fudge, and potted cream.
In the Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade theme park areas, in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventures, there will be exclusive themed merchandise and festive decor, set against the of your Wizarding adventure.
Universal Volcano Bay Nights: April 19 to May 17
Slide into summer early with Universal Volcano Bay Nights!,
Enjoy the Spring vibes with this exclusive, separately ticketed nighttime event at Universal’s tropical water park.
On select nights in April and May, the Volcano Bay water stays open late, offering guests exclusive access to water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers under the stars.
The event features live entertainment, music, character meet-and-greets, and a unique nighttime atmosphere.
Grad Bash: April 4 to April 25
April is the month of celebration for graduating high school seniors, and Universal helps thousands of them celebrate with the Grad Bash.
This exclusive, separately ticketed event takes place on select nights (April 4, 5, 11, and 25) and offers private access to both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
Seniors can enjoy thrilling rides, live DJs, and street entertainment, all in a fun and safe environment. The event also includes early entry to the parks starting at 4:00 PM, making it an all-night celebration of memories and achievements.
Gradventure: May 2 to May 17
Middle school graduates get their turn to shine with Gradventure. Held on May 2, 9, 16, and 17, Gradventure gives students private access to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure for a night filled with exciting rides, live entertainment, and endless fun.
A dinner voucher is included with admission, ensuring kids can refuel between adventures. It is a separately ticketed and designed to give younger grads a night they’ll never forget.
Halloween Horror Nights: August 29 to November 2
Fall is spooky season and it starts early at Universal Studios Florida with the return of Halloween Horror Nights, running certain nights from August 29 to November 2.
As a separately ticketed event, Halloween Horror Nights is perhaps the most famous and favourite theme park event.
It is best known for its haunted houses and sinister scare zones, both of which are filled with fantastic and gruesomely made-up live actors, as well as special immersive live entertainment.
Every year horror fans can look forward to a lineup of new haunted attractions inspired by cinematic classics and original nightmares.
The event features themed food, exclusive merchandise, and free self-parking after midnight, it’s no wonder this event is celebrated as the world’s premier Halloween experience.
Holidays at Universal: November 21 to December 31
Ending the year on a festive note is the Holidays at Universal Orlando, a resort-wide celebration that’s included with everyone’s theme park admission.
From November 21 to December 31, the parks are transformed by dazzling festive decor and unique seasonal offerings.
Highlights include Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas at Seuss Landing, and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s.
Guests can also savour holiday-themed food and shop for exclusive seasonal merchandise.
So, whether you're snapping a selfie with the Grinch or enjoying hot Butterbeer, the holidays at Universal are sure to leave you with magical memories!
