Ringing in 2026: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Universal Studios
If you’re searching for an unforgettable way to wrap up 2025 and usher in 2026, both Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood offer a plethora of festive options for celebrating New Year’s Eve. With exciting events and unique experiences at their theme parks on December 31, there’s something to suit every preference—whether you want to enjoy a day filled with adrenaline and fun or attend stylish nighttime celebrations. Plus, the holiday decorations lingering from Christmas add even more magic to the atmosphere!
Holiday Festivities Lasting Into the New Year
Visitors can continue to indulge in the holiday spirit as Universal Orlando Resort in Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood in California will maintain their festive decorations and special experiences until January 4, 2026. This means that guests can appreciate the enchanting décor, savor seasonal foods, and enjoy various holiday-themed attractions and events as they gear up for the countdown to the New Year.
At Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, as well as select attractions at the new Epic Universe, you can immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere right through to the start of January. Likewise, at Universal Studios Hollywood, you can partake in the holiday spirit while indulging in special menus, tree lightings, and beloved shows like the Harry Potter-themed celebrations.
Universal Studios Hollywood’s EVE
Universal Studios Hollywood invites everyone to participate in its exciting annual all-ages celebration, EVE. This sensational event, which is included with your theme park admission, kicks off at 9 p.m. and is designed to cater to families and party-goers alike. The evening will feature a dazzling midnight fireworks display, energetic live entertainment with DJs spinning various genres, photo opportunities, and more.
Plus, if you’re a Pass Member, there are exclusive perks such as special pricing and designated viewing areas to enhance your celebration. EVE promises a lively atmosphere that combines the thrill of the park with the excitement of welcoming a new year.
Universal Orlando Resort’s New Year’s Eve Celebrations
At Universal Orlando Resort, the festivities are vibrant and diverse, spread across Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe, and Universal CityWalk. There’s something for everyone, whether you decide to start your evening early or arrive later for the countdown.
Universal Studios Florida begins its celebrations at 6:15 p.m. with a live DJ performing at the Music Plaza Stage. Throughout the night, visitors can enjoy enchanting stilt walkers and photo opportunities with floats from the Universal Holiday Parade. A highlight of the evening will be the performance of CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular at 10 p.m., followed by an elaborate countdown celebration near the Music Plaza Stage as midnight approaches.
Over at Universal Islands of Adventure, guests will also experience live DJ sets starting at 6:15 p.m., in addition to character meet-and-greets scattered throughout the park. As the clock ticks down, guests can join various countdown celebrations with prime viewing areas in Port of Entry, Seuss Landing, and Toon Lagoon.
Not to be overlooked, Universal Epic Universe will host a midnight countdown as well, featuring dynamic entertainment from a DJ at the Hemisphere Stage in Celestial Park, complete with a spectacular fountain show spanning the park’s waterways.
CityWalk and Hotel Celebrations
Even if you’re not stepping into the parks, Universal CityWalk offers a vibrant nightlife atmosphere with live music and DJ sets at both the Waterfront Stage and the Green and Red Coconut Club. The outdoor complex will feature various forms of entertainment, ensuring a festive backdrop leading up to the midnight countdown.
If you’re considering a more upscale celebration, some of Universal Orlando’s hotels still have limited availability for exciting New Year’s Eve events. The Party on the Piazza at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is a family-friendly option that includes an array of food stations, decadent desserts, and live music.
For adults seeking a more exclusive experience, Universal Aventura Hotel is hosting an adults-only rooftop celebration featuring unique Korean and Latin-inspired food stations, specialty cocktails, and stunning panoramic views of Orlando’s skyline. Availability for these events tends to fill up quickly, so it’s worth checking for tickets soon if you’re interested.
Explore More Options
To discover more about the various free and ticketed New Year’s Eve activities at both Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, check out their respective websites. Whether you’re looking for thrilling rides, festive celebrations, or elegant dining experiences, both destinations promise an exciting send-off to 2025 and a vibrant welcome to 2026.