Universal Orlando Resort has revealed an incredible lineup of events and experiences for 2025, and it’s all kinds of exciting! Whether you’re ready to catch beads at Mardi Gras 🎭, sip a Butterbeer in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter 🪄, or face the scares at Halloween Horror Nights 🎃, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit. Oh, and let’s not forget the highly anticipated opening of Universal Epic Universe! 🌌✨ Here’s your guide to everything happening at Universal next year.
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval 🎭✨
When: February 1–March 30It’s a Mardi party, and you won’t want to miss it! This vibrant event is packed with delicious food, dazzling parades, and live entertainment. Start your day with classics like powdered-sugar-covered beignets or try international dishes from around the globe. Catch beads at the famous Mardi Gras Parade, and end the night dancing along to concerts.
PRO TIP: Staying at a Universal Orlando hotel? You’ll have access to exclusive Mardi Gras-themed food and drinks!
Butterbeer Season 🪄🍻
When: March 1–May 31Raise a frothy glass to the most magical drink in the wizarding world! Butterbeer Season is your chance to indulge in hot, cold, or frozen Butterbeer in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — and yes, there’s even a vegan option! This event also includes seasonal-exclusive Butterbeer treats and merchandise, so it’s the perfect time to celebrate with your fellow witches and wizards.
Grad Bash 🎓🎉
When: April 4, 5, 11, & 25High school seniors, this one’s for you! Grad Bash gives you exclusive access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure after hours. Dance with your friends, ride thrilling attractions, and celebrate your graduation in style. It’s the ultimate send-off into your next chapter!
NEW! Universal Volcano Bay Nights 🌋🌙
When: April 19, 26, May 3, 10, & 17Experience Volcano Bay in a whole new way at this exclusive nighttime event! With live entertainment, character meet-and-greets, and shorter wait times for water attractions, Volcano Bay Nights will take your water park adventure to the next level. And let’s not forget the stunning glow of the volcano under the night sky—it’s pure magic.
HOT TIP: Book a Volcano Bay view room at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort to enjoy the best views and maximize your experience!
Gradventure 🎓✨
When: May 2, 9, 16, & 17Middle school grads, this is your moment to shine! Gradventure gives you and your friends exclusive access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure for an unforgettable night of rides, street entertainment, and memories to last a lifetime.
Grand Opening of Universal Epic Universe 🌌🎢
When: May 22The countdown is on for Universal Epic Universe, and it’s going to be, well, epic! Featuring five themed lands, including Celestial Park, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, and How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, this new park will raise the bar for immersive experiences. With three new hotels nearby, you can stay steps away from the action. Tickets are already on sale—don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic opening!
Halloween Horror Nights 🎃👻
When: Select Nights, August 29–November 2Brace yourself for the ultimate scare fest as Halloween Horror Nights returns earlier than ever. With haunted houses inspired by horror classics, scare zones, and chilling live entertainment, it’s the perfect event for thrill-seekers. Want an extra dose of fear? Book a “Behind the Screams” tour for a lights-on look at the haunted houses or go all-in with a specialty VIP experience.
PRO TIP: Staying at a Universal Orlando hotel? Look out for themed bars and spooky experiences in the hotel lobbies to keep the scares going!
Holidays at Universal Orlando 🎄🎁
When: November 21–December 31Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with festive decor, live entertainment, and holiday cheer throughout Universal Orlando Resort. Highlights include:
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Marvel at the magical decorations and holiday performances in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. 🪄
Universal Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s: Watch larger-than-life balloons and festive floats parade through the park. 🎈
Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular: Laugh along with the Grinch and sing with the Whos during this heartwarming show. 💚
Don’t forget to check out holiday-themed food, merchandise, and decor at Universal’s hotels, too!
PRO TIP: Experience it all with the Universal Holiday Tour—a four-hour guided tour showcasing the best of the holidays at both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure.
Ready to Book Your Universal Adventure?
Whether you’re craving Butterbeer, ready to conquer a haunted house, or eager to explore the brand-new Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort has something for everyone in 2025. Let's start planning your trip today, and get ready to make unforgettable memories! 🎢✨
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