From Mardi Gras to the Holidays: Your Complete Guide to Universal Orlando Events in 2026

Plan your next vacation with our guide to 2026 Universal Orlando Events, including Mardi Gras, Epic Universe updates, and HHN 35.

If you’re planning a 2026 theme park vacation, Universal Orlando Resort is loaded with exciting experiences, seasonal events, and a few must-know refurbishments and closures to shape your trip. From classic celebrations like Mardi Gras and Halloween Horror Nights to new perks like park-hopping with Epic Universe, this is your go-to guide for planning the perfect Universal getaway.

As we step into 2026, Universal Orlando Resort is no longer just a weekend getaway—it is a global powerhouse of entertainment. With the massive Universal Epic Universe theme park now in its first full year of operation, the resort has officially transitioned into a destination that rivals any other on the planet. Whether you are looking for the high-energy bead-throwing of Mardi Gras or the bone-chilling terror of an anniversary year at Halloween Horror Nights, the 2026 Universal Orlando Events calendar is packed with more magic and mayhem than ever before.

2026 Universal Orlando Guide

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential dates, seasonal celebrations, and major park updates you need to know. From the debut of full park-hopping access at Universal Epic Universe to the return of fan-favorite concert series, here is everything you can expect from 2026 Universal Orlando Events.

The year 2026 marks a historic turning point for Central Florida tourism. While 2025 was defined by the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe, 2026 is the year the “new normal” takes hold. For the first time, guests can experience a fully integrated theme park resort where the barriers of entry to the newest worlds have finally been lowered. From the streets of London in Diagon Alley to the fog-filled paths of Halloween Horror Nights, the lineup of 2026 Universal Orlando Events is the most ambitious in the company’s history.

The Epic Evolution: A New Way to Play

Before diving into the seasonal calendar, it is vital to understand the structural changes hitting the resort this year. During its inaugural year, Universal Epic Universe operated under strict ticketing tiers. In 2026, those training wheels come off.

Unlimited Park Hopping

Starting this year, Universal Orlando Resort has transitioned to a standard “All-Parks” ticketing model. This means that guests with multi-day Park-to-Park tickets no longer have a “one-day-at-Epic” limit. You can now start your morning racing to Stardust Racers in Celestial Park at Universal Epic Universe, take the bus to Universal Islands of Adventure for lunch, and finish your night at Universal Studios Florida.

The “Ministry of Magic” Synergy

With the Ministry of Magic world at Universal Epic Universe now fully operational for over a year, 2026 is the first time fans can participate in the “Triple Crown” of Wizarding World events. Look for increased cross-park entertainment, with stories of 1920s Paris and 1990s London overlapping more than ever.

2026 Universal Orlando Events – Winter 2026: Music and Faith

The year kicks off with a focus on high-energy music and spiritual gatherings.

Rock the Universe 2026 (January 23 – 24, 2026)

Florida’s most significant Christian music festival returns to the Music Plaza Stage at Universal Studios Florida. The 2026 lineup is headlined by Forrest Frank and Switchfoot, with supporting acts like Phil Wickham, LECRAE, and Colton Dixon. The festival features powerful live performances from top Christian artists across three main stages: the Music Plaza Stage, the Hollywood Stage, and the FanZone Stage.

Rock the Universe is an annual, separately ticketed event held at Universal Studios Florida. Known as Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, it brings together faith, fellowship, and world-class entertainment for a weekend of “rock, ride, and rejoice.”

Faith and Attractions

Beyond the concerts, attendees can enjoy:

• Thrilling Rides: Most major attractions, including Revenge of the Mummy, remain open late.
• FanZone: A dedicated area for up-and-coming artists and autograph sessions.

Initially held in September, the event now takes place in late January, serving as a popular retreat for youth groups and families looking for an uplifting theme park experience. During Rock the Universe, the park remains open late (until 1:00 AM) for attendees, offering a unique opportunity.

January 2026 Passholder Bonus Benefits

Throughout January 2026, Universal Orlando annual passholders can enjoy exclusive hotel discounts and limited-edition collectibles. Universal Orlando is kicking off the year with Passholder Bonus Benefits, running from January 5 through January 31, 2026. This event offers exclusive perks for the UOAP (Universal Orlando Annual Passholder) community.

Exclusive Perks & Giveaways

• Shrek-Themed Lanyard: To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the beloved ogre, passholders can pick up a free limited-edition lanyard at the UOAP Lounge in Islands of Adventure or The Tonight Shop in Universal Studios.
• Hotel Savings: Enjoy up to 35% off select Universal Orlando hotels, including Cabana Bay, Aventura, and the new Stella Nova and Terra Luna resorts.
• VIP Experiences: Save 25% on 1-day VIP or Private VIP tours across the parks.

Dining & Food Benefits

Passholders can access exclusive menu items and dedicated dining areas, such as the upstairs seating at Lombard’s Seafood Grille. Featured 2026 menu items include:

• Cacio E Pepe at VIVO Italian Kitchen
• Pork DanDan Noodles at Mythos
• NSFD Doughnut at Voodoo Doughnut
• Medjai Mule (exclusive gin/bourbon cocktail) at Chez Alcatraz

For those visiting Volcano Bay, 3-Park Power and Seasonal passholders get Early Park Admission on select dates throughout the month.

The First “Quiet” Season?

Late January and early February are traditionally the “slow” months, but in 2026, the draw of Universal Epic Universe has shifted the crowd dynamics. If you are visiting during this window, prioritize weekends for the full entertainment schedule, and use weekdays for shorter wait times at attractions like Revenge of the Mummy or Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

2026 Universal Orlando Events: The Season of Carnaval

Late winter and spring at Universal Orlando Resort are synonymous with one thing: beads and concerts!

Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval (Dates: February 7 – April 4, 2026)

The 2026 Universal Orlando Events calendar wouldn’t be complete without its signature party. This year, the event leans heavily into its “International” branding. This fan-favorite event transforms Universal Studios Florida into a massive, park-wide street party that blends the soulful traditions of New Orleans with the high energy of global Carnaval celebrations.

Spectacular Entertainment

The heart of the event is the nightly Mardi Gras parade, which winds through the park’s streets with towering, glittering floats designed by the world-renowned Kern Studios. Guests can expect a flurry of street performers, stilt walkers, and, of course, the chance to catch endless strings of colorful beads. For those seeking an upgraded experience, the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine package is back for 2026, allowing guests to enjoy a three-course meal before boarding a float to toss beads.

Global Cuisine & Concerts

As the “International Flavors” name suggests, food is a massive draw. The park features dozens of kiosks serving authentic NOLA staples such as gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets, alongside global street food from regions including Brazil, Colombia, and Belgium. On select nights, the Music Plaza Stage hosts world-class concerts included with regular park admission. While the 2026 headliner lineup is typically announced closer to the start date, past performers have included major acts such as T-Pain, TLC, and Foster the People. Whether you are there for the spicy crawfish or the live music, Mardi Gras 2026 is set to be a highlight of the spring season.

Butterbeer Season (March – May 2026)

Following its successful debut in previous years, Butterbeer Season returns to all three parks. This event features specialty treats such as cold, frozen, and hot Butterbeer, along with unique items including Butterbeer fudge and limited-edition silver-tinted steins.

Grad Bash & Gradventure

Universal Orlando Resort offers two premier “rites of passage” for graduating students: Grad Bash for high school seniors and Gradventure for 8th-grade graduates. These events provide exclusive, after-hours access to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, creating a safe yet high-energy environment for students to celebrate their achievements.

Event Dates and Details

For 2026, the celebrations are scheduled across several nights to accommodate schools from across the country:

• Grad Bash 2026: April 17, 18, 24, and 30.
• Gradventure 2026: May 1, 8, 15, and 21.

Both events feature a “Mix-In” period starting at 4:00 PM, allowing students to enter the parks early. Once the parks are closed to the general public, the private event begins with live DJs, dance zones, and street entertainment. Students can move seamlessly between the two theme parks, allowing them to experience top-tier attractions such as the Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure with significantly shorter wait times.

Safety and Chaperone Perks

Safety is a priority, with strict dress codes and “lock-down” policies in effect. For every ten student tickets purchased, schools typically receive one complimentary chaperone ticket. Chaperones aren’t just supervisors; they enjoy Universal Express Unlimited access to skip lines and can relax in private lounges with complimentary snacks and beverages. Whether it is the final high school hurrah or a middle school send-off, these events offer a unique, multi-park experience that Orlando’s youth groups look forward to all year.

2026 Universal Orlando Resort – Summer 2026: High Thrills and Night Vibes

Summer is the peak of the tourist season, and Universal responds with extended hours and nighttime spectaculars.

Volcano Bay Nights

Universal Orlando Resort’s Volcano Bay Nights is the ultimate way to experience a tropical paradise under the stars. This separately ticketed, after-hours event transforms the 25-acre water theme park into a neon-lit oasis with shorter wait times, exclusive entertainment, and a vibrant party atmosphere.

Event Highlights and Dates

Running on select nights in 2026, Volcano Bay Nights offers a more intimate experience with limited capacity. The event typically allows guests to enter as early as 4:00 PM for a “mix-in” period, with the exclusive party running from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The centerpiece is the 200-foot Krakatau volcano, which glows with fiery internal lights and serves as the backdrop for a nightly beach bash.

Food, Fun, and Characters

What sets this event apart is the added value. Every guest receives a complimentary Coca-Cola Freestyle souvenir cup with unlimited refills and access to free island-inspired snacks, including spicy island shrimp, churro bites, and pineapple popcorn. The entertainment is equally unique, featuring:

• Live DJ & Beach Bash: High-energy music and games like limbo at Waturi Beach.
• Character Meet-and-Greets: Rare appearances from DreamWorks favorites like Shrek, King Julien, and even Scooby-Doo and the Gang.
• Low Wait Times: Popular attractions like the Krakatau Aqua Coaster and TeAwa the Fearless River often feature walk-on wait times.

Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular

Universal Orlando Resort’s CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular is a breathtaking nighttime lagoon show that celebrates the emotional power of cinema through music. Located at Universal Studios Florida, this 22-minute production transforms the park’s central lagoon into a massive outdoor theater, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.

A Technological Marvel

The show is a masterclass in modern entertainment, utilizing a massive array of special effects to bring movie moments to life. The production features:

• 228 Dancing Fountains: Reaching heights of up to 131 feet, these fountains act as fluid screens and rhythmic dancers.
• 600+ Synchronized Drones: These “glowing constellations” form massive, 3D images in the sky, including the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, the Jaws shark, and a detailed Hogwarts emblem.
• 4K Projection Mapping: The buildings of New York and San Francisco are used as canvases for vibrant animations.

Iconic Soundtracks

While many shows rely on dialogue, CineSational prioritizes the original film scores. Guests are swept through a medley of legendary soundtracks from franchises like Harry Potter, Jurassic World, Back to the Future, and The Super Mario Bros. Movie. It even includes tributes to classic Universal attractions like The Mummy and King Kong.

For the best experience in 2026, head to the tiered viewing area in Central Park about 30 minutes before showtime. This location offers a perfectly centered view of the fountains, the projections, and the drone formations overhead.

Back to Hogwarts (August 1 – September 1)

This event celebrating the timeframe students traditionally return to Hogwarts in the “Harry Potter” stories

Autumn 2026: The 35th Anniversary of Fear

This is the “Main Event” of the 2026 Universal Orlando Events lineup. Universal Orlando Resort is preparing for a landmark milestone in 2026: Halloween Horror Nights 35 (HHN 35). As part of the 35th-anniversary celebration, this season is expected to be an expansive tribute to the event’s “roots” while introducing new intellectual properties (IPs). While official dates are typically finalized in late spring, HHN 35 will run on select nights from August 28 through November 1, 2026.

Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights 35 (HHN 35) is set to return in 2026, marking three and a half decades of the world’s premier Halloween event. While the official lineup is typically revealed in phases throughout the spring and summer, the event consistently delivers a high-production experience that transforms Universal Studios Florida into a landscape of cinematic and original terror.

Event Format and Scale

HHN 35 will feature ten terrifying haunted houses, ranging from massive intellectual properties (IPs) based on famous horror films and TV series to intricate original stories created by Universal’s Entertainment team. Complementing the houses are five scare zones—open-air themed areas where “scareactors” roam freely—and world-class live entertainment. Historically, the event also includes a limited-capacity Premium Scream Night in late August, offering fans a first look with significantly shorter wait times and all-inclusive snacks.

The Guest Experience

The event is a separately ticketed, after-hours experience that usually begins at 6:30 PM and runs until 2:00 AM on select nights. Beyond the scares, guests can enjoy:

• Themed Food & Drinks: Specialized menus featuring seasonal treats and unique beverages.
• The Tribute Store: A highly detailed, multi-room retail space that serves as an attraction in its own right.
• Select Rides: Popular attractions such as Revenge of the Mummy and Men in Black: Alien Attack typically remain open for guests seeking a break from the fog.

As an anniversary year, HHN 35 is expected to honor the event’s history while offering a mix of classic nostalgia and modern horror innovation.

UOAP Passholder Days Return

Usually, from August 15 through September 30, Universal Orlando Resort extends special passholder privileges. These will be more extensive compared to the benefit days in January. Also, there are typically a few weeks of passholder days in May.

2026 Universal Orlando Events – Winter 2026: A Holiday Transformation

Holidays at Universal Orlando (Dates: November 14 – January 3)

Holidays at Universal Orlando transforms the entire resort into a winter wonderland, blending traditional festive cheer with high-energy theme park thrills.

Signature Experiences

The centerpiece of the festivities is Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida. This nightly spectacle features massive, larger-than-life balloons, elaborate floats, and a cast of characters from Shrek, Madagascar, and Despicable Me. The parade concludes with an appearance by Santa Claus and the lighting of a massive 80-foot Christmas tree.

In Universal Islands of Adventure, Grinchmas takes over Seuss Landing. Guests can enjoy the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a live retelling of the classic Dr. Seuss story, and meet the Grinch himself for a “sarcastic” photo op. For a more immersive experience, the Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast offers a festive meal with the mean, green one.

Wizarding World Magic

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a resort-wide highlight. Both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade are adorned with themed garlands and twinkling lights. Each night, The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle projection show illuminates the sky with music and moments inspired by the films.

Additional 2026 Information

While rumors of an expansion of Universal Epic Universe continue to float around, we know some new dining options are coming to that theme park. An Italian and a Mexican restaurant are expected to open in the Celestial Park area of Universal Epic Universe in 2026. It is anticipated that at least one of these will be a quick-service dining option.

Harbour Nights at Portofino Bay Hotel

Harbour Nights at Universal Orlando Resort is a sophisticated, separately ticketed event that brings the charm of the Italian Riviera to Central Florida. Held on select Friday nights throughout the year at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, this adults-only (21+) gathering is hosted on the picturesque Harbor Piazza and features unlimited gourmet food, fine wines, and live entertainment.

2026 Event Schedule

For 2026, the series kicks off with the popular Harbour Nights Romantico on February 13, perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day weekend. Other seasonal iterations typically include:

• Harbour Nights Primavera: April 25, 2026
• Harbour Nights La Dolce Vita: October 16, 2026 (Projected)
• Holiday Harbour Nights: November 27, 2026 (Featuring the hotel’s tree lighting)

Culinary and Musical Highlights

The event showcases the culinary excellence of the resort’s premier restaurants, including Mama Della’s Ristorante and Bice Ristorante. Guests can stroll between stations to sample authentic Italian fare, including braised short ribs, handcrafted pastas, and artisanal cannolis. Each dish is paired with a curated selection of wines, ranging from crisp Pinot Grigios to robust Chiantis.

A live jazz band and a signature balcony opera performance complete the ambiance. As the sun sets, talented vocalists serenade the crowd from the Mediterranean-inspired balconies overlooking the harbor, creating a truly romantic atmosphere.

Ticket Options

General admission includes unlimited food and wine samples. At the same time, VIP tickets offer an elevated experience with reserved seating in a private area, a six-course wine dinner, and exclusive pours not available to the general public.

Celebrations Continue at Universal CityWalk
Guests can extend their thrills outside the parks with themed events in Universal CityWalk throughout the year – including the Mardi Gras After Party and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at Pat O’Brien’s in the spring, special viewings to watch NBC and Peacock’s Super Bowl (February 8) and the Kentucky Derby (May 2) at NBC Sports Grill & Brew, the wildly-popular annual transformations of the Red Coconut Club into the Cursed Coconut Club for Mardi Gras, the Dead Coconut Club for Halloween Horror Nights and the Green & Red Coconut Club for the Holidays – and more.

Plus, Universal CityWalk will host special activities and viewing parties for Milan Cortina Winter Olympics and Telemundo’s Spanish Language coverage of the FIFA World Cup, a CityWalk Summer Movie Series, a Summer Music Series, and so much more.

Happenings at Universal Orlando Hotels
Universal Orlando hotel guests can enjoy even more seasonal events and offerings at select hotels during their stay, including:

• An Acoustic Brunch every Sunday at The Kitchen in the Hard Rock Hotel, where guests can savor a full brunch buffet and chef-inspired creations while enjoying live music. Reserve now.
• A Wantilan Luau at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, where guests can enjoy a festive, family-friendly luau and dinner show on Saturday evenings (subject to change). To purchase tickets, click here.
• Harbor Nights at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, where guests can escape to the Mediterranean and enjoy unlimited gourmet food and wines from the hotel’s restaurants, live music and a traditional opera performance. Harbor Nights will take place on February 13, April 17, October 16 and November 27. To purchase tickets, click here.
• U.S. Hunger Meal Packing in November, where guests can volunteer to help package 555,000 healthy meals for people in need across Central Florida. For more information, click here.
• Velvet Sessions and Velvet Unplugged at Hard Rock Hotel, showcasing live music from legendary artists throughout the year. To purchase tickets, click here.

Special dining will also be available for guests on Easter, Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve at participating hotels, including Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.

Additional details about Universal Orlando’s 2026 events and experiences will be released throughout the year. For more information and to begin planning a 2026 Universal Orlando Resort vacation, visit www.universalorlando.com.

Important 2026 Refurbishments

Planning around closures is essential for a 2026 visit. The ones we know about currently include:

• Jurassic Park River Adventure: CLOSED Jan 5 – Nov 19, 2026. This is a massive, nearly year-long overhaul to update animatronics and ride systems.
• Hogwarts Express: CLOSED Feb 9 – 23, 2026. Plan for a long walk between parks during this window.
• Volcano Bay Seasonal Closure: Starting Oct 26, 2026, the water park will close for its annual winter maintenance.
• Finnegan’s Bar & Grill at Universal Studios Florida – One of Universal Studios Florida’s most beloved dining spots, Finnegan’s Bar & Grill, is scheduled for a major refurbishment in 2026 that will impact your vacation planning. Located in the park’s New York area, this Irish-American pub is known for hearty fare, live entertainment, and classic pub atmosphere — making it a favorite stop for families, foodies, and annual passholders alike. Universal Orlando has announced that Finnegan’s will close temporarily on January 12, 2026, to begin a nearly year-long renovation. While the resort has not confirmed a specific reopening date, the restaurant is expected to remain closed through late 2026 or winter 2026, meaning it will not be open during Halloween Horror Nights 35 — a key season for many guests.

Pro Travel Tips

• Check the official Universal Orlando calendar before booking to align your visit with your favorite events and avoid closures.
• Park-to-park tickets = park hopping goodness, especially with Epic Universe now in play.
• Consider an off-peak visit in early January or May for lighter crowds and significant seasonal events.
• Hotel packages & Express Passes can save time and enhance your experience — ask your travel agent about the best options!

Ready to Plan?

2026 at Universal Orlando Resort is shaping up to be one of the most memorable years yet — packed with celebrations, new options like park hopping, classic events returning bigger than ever, and plenty of sun-soaked thrills.

Let us plan the perfect Universal vacation for you! Our team knows how to maximize your days, minimize wait times, and curate the best experiences for families, couples, and thrill-seekers alike. Best of all, their services are free to you. Universal Orlando pays them after your stay. Contact us today for a free vacation quote!