Holidays at Universal Orlando are Pure Magic

The holidays are upon us! If you need an out of town option for entertaining kids (or yourself!), head down to Universal Studios and/or Islands of Adventure in Orlando for some family-friendly fun. Universal Studios has the Macy’s Holiday Parade EVERY DAY at 5pm until December 21st, then at 8pm from December 22nd through January 3rd. Walking around before the parade, you’ll see floats stationed at various points throughout the park. (Curious George is particularly well-placed!)

Just after the parade, catch performances by Mannheim Steamroller, who have “holiday” listed as their genre on their Wikipedia page. If the name is unfamiliar to you, just drive around listening to Lite 96.1 for a while, and I can guarantee that you’ll hear their epic instrumental version of Carol of the Bells, which is full with sound, somehow almost creepily sinister, yet powerfully Christmas-y. They’ve got two more performances lined up for December 20th and 21st, both of which are included with park admission.

Over at Islands of Adventure, the family-friendly Seuss Landing is home once again to everyone’s favorite Stink-Stank-Stunk baddie with a heart of unwashed socks, Mr. Grinch. Meet all the Whos of Who-ville as well as the mean one, himself, and delight in their goofy stage antics at the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a live musical with performances several times each day. Apparently, you can also have a character breakfast with these folks at the Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous, though reservations are required.

If you do make it to Universal, be sure to tag us (@eujacksonville) in your photos, and let us know what your favorites are. While you’re down there, be sure to also check out Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade for all of your Harry Potter needs (the hot butterbeer will keep you warm on these chilly days). Have a merry and safe Who-liday!