Universal Orlando’s events are among the most anticipated in the theme park world, attracting thousands of visitors eager for immersive entertainment.
Guests rave about the top-tier performances, elaborate decorations, and exclusive attractions that make each event special.
The park offers something exciting year-round, from thrilling Halloween experiences to festive holiday celebrations.
The combination of interactive experiences, gorgeous theming, and unique food offerings keeps visitors coming back.
If you’re planning a trip in 2025, this guide covers all the key events to help you make the most of your visit!
Rock the Universe
Date: Usually in late January. (This year – January 24–25, 2025)
Rock the Universe is the biggest Christian music festival in Florida. This special event brings together Christian music fans for an uplifting weekend of live performances, worship sessions, and nighttime theme park fun. The festival is held annually at Universal Studios Florida, and in addition to the music, you can also enjoy the park’s rides and attractions late into the night. This event requires a separate ticket.
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval
Date: February 1–March 30, 2025
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Florida! This celebration includes a dazzling parade, live concerts on select nights, and an incredible lineup of global cuisine. Indulge in classic beignets, seafood dishes, and creative fusion flavors while collecting beads along the parade route. Best of all, this event is included with park admission.
Butterbeer Season
Date: March 1–May 31, 2025
For fans of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, spring is the perfect time to enjoy Butterbeer in all its delightful forms. Sip on a warm mug in Diagon Alley, cool off with a frozen version in Hogsmeade, or try one of the seasonal-exclusive Butterbeer treats available during this celebration. Specialty merchandise and themed desserts make this a must-do for every Harry Potter fan.
Grad Bash
Date: 4, 5, 11 and 25 April 2025
High school seniors can celebrate their upcoming graduation with an unforgettable night of exclusive theme park access, live entertainment, and endless thrills. This separately ticketed event spans both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, offering an exciting way for graduates to make lifelong memories with their classmates.
Universal Volcano Bay Nights
Date: 12 and 26 April 2025; 3, 10 and 17 May, 2025
For the first time ever, Universal’s tropical water theme park is hosting after-hours events featuring unique nighttime entertainment, shorter ride wait times, and a breathtaking illuminated atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a serene evening floating along the lazy river, taking on adrenaline-pumping slides, or simply relaxing under the glowing lights of the Krakatau volcano.
👉 Get the full scoop on the Volcano Bay theme park with all the information about tickets, famous attractions, and more!
Gradventure
Date: 2, 9, 16, & 17 May, 2025
Middle school students also get their moment in the spotlight with this special event designed just for them. Gradventure grants exclusive nighttime access to both Universal theme parks, providing a safe and fun way for young graduates to celebrate their achievements.
Grand Opening of Universal Epic Universe
Date: May 22, 2025
One of the most highly anticipated events of the year, Universal’s Epic Universe, is set to open on May 22, 2025. This brand-new theme park will introduce visitors to several immersive worlds, 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. Three amazing new hotels will also open alongside Epic Universe, providing easy access to this next-level theme park experience.
Explore more about Epic Universe
Fourth of July Celebration
Date: July 4, 2025
Celebrate Independence Day with a full day of patriotic fun at Universal Orlando Resort. Expect themed entertainment, festive food offerings, and an unforgettable fireworks display lighting up the night sky.
Passholder Appreciation
Passholder Appreciation days
Date: August 15–September 30, 2025
Universal Orlando Annual Passholders will receive exclusive perks, special discounts, and limited-time experiences as part of this annual appreciation event. It’s a great time to take advantage of extra benefits and celebrate the Universal community.
Passholder Appreciation Nights
Date: August 15–16, 2025
Passholders can enjoy after-hours access to the theme parks, complete with thrilling rides, exclusive character encounters, and special entertainment. It’s the ultimate VIP experience for dedicated Universal fans.
Halloween Horror Nights
Date: Select Nights August 29–November 2, 2025
As one of the most anticipated Halloween events in the world, Halloween Horror Nights transforms Universal Studios Florida into a terrifying realm of haunted houses, eerie scare zones, and live horror entertainment. Each year, the event features new spine-chilling themes inspired by classic horror films, television series, and original concepts. Tickets for this event sell out quickly, so plan ahead if you dare to enter.
Holidays at Universal Orlando
Date: November 21–December 31, 2025
The holiday season at Universal is truly magical! Enjoy Christmas decorations, festive shows, and seasonal treats throughout the parks. Highlights include:
- Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogwarts Castle lights up with holiday magic.
- Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s – Watch giant balloons float through the park.
- The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular – A fun and festive show starring The Grinch himself.
Year-round events at Universal Orlando Hotels
Universal Orlando’s resorts offer an exciting lineup of events all year long, enhancing your vacation experience with themed dining, live music, and exclusive celebrations. Here’s a glimpse of what’s happening in 2025
| Event Name | Date(s) | Location |
| Wantilan Luau | Every Saturday | Loews Royal Pacific Resort |
| Acoustic Brunch | Every Sunday | Universal Hard Rock Hotel |
| Harbor Nights Romantico | February 14 | Loews Portofino Bay Hotel |
| Easter Dining | April 20 | Select Hotels |
| Mother’s Day Dining | May 11 | Select Hotels |
| Harbor Nights La Dolce Vita | October 17 | Loews Portofino Bay Hotel |
| Thanksgiving & Christmas Dining | November 27 & December 25 | Select Hotels |
| New Year’s Eve Celebrations | December 31 | Select Hotels |
Explore more about Universal Orlando Hotels
Live entertainment & seasonal fun at Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk is the hub for year-round entertainment, featuring concerts, themed parties, and culinary events. Some highlights include:
| Event Name | Date(s) | Location |
| Mardi Gras After Party | Fridays & Saturdays, Feb–Mar | Universal Orlando |
| St. Patrick’s Day Celebration | March 16–17 | Pat O’Brien’s |
| Latin Nights & Love is Universal Nights | May–June | Red Coconut Club |
| Dead Coconut Club | August–November | Halloween-Themed Bar |
| Green & Red Coconut Club | November–December | Holiday-Themed Bar |
| New Year’s Eve Party | December 31 | Universal Orlando |
