Fantastic news, Universal fans! We know you've been waiting for another unforgettable year of adventure at your favorite theme park. So, we are happy to share with you this list. Universal Orlando just dropped its official calendar of events in 2026, and we are so stoked! This year's calendar is filled with exciting seasonal events and festivities for everyone.
From Mardi Gras 2026 and summer at Universal Volcano Bay, to Halloween events and magical holiday events, this one's for you. See the official list of Universal Orlando Resort events this year. Read more.
Every exciting event happening at Universal Orlando Resort in 2026
Rock the Universe | January 23–24
For over 25 years, Rock the Universe has been Florida's largest Christian music festival, featuring live music, worship, and exciting rides at this ticketed event.
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval | February 7–April 4
You surely won't want to miss out on the Mardi party! It's one of those awesome UOR events that has such a fun atmosphere, and guess what? It's part of your Universal Studios Florida ticket!
Experience the excitement of the Mardi Gras Parade, a true spectacle where you can catch beads. Enjoy live concerts with friends, great food, and drinks like beignets and a different international cuisine each year. This event is a must for your spring plans.
Butterbeer Season | March 1–May 31
Butterbeer Season is such a fun time to get together and raise a glass to that beloved wizard's drink! Whether it's your first sip or your hundredth, you're in for a treat! Discover a range of seasonal treats and amazing Butterbeer merchandise that celebrates this iconic drink.
The festivities happen in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at three parks: Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, and wizarding Paris. Whether you like your Butterbeer hot, cold, or frozen, grab a mug and have a good chuckle over your Butterbeer mustache. Keep an eye out for more tasty updates coming your way soon.
Grad Bash | April 17, 18, 24 & 30
Separately ticketed event
Attention, seniors! Don't miss out on a fantastic graduation celebration with your friends. You'll have exclusive access to both Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. Get ready for some epic rides, street entertainment, and loads of fun!
Volcano Bay Nights | Dates to be announced
Separately ticketed event
Can I just say that Volcano Bay is an underrated water park in terms of attractions and experiences? It is unique and looks even more captivating at night. This special event lets you soak in the beauty and fun of Universal Orlando Resort's one and only water park!
This summer, elevate your theme park adventure by joining your loved ones to this ticketed event! Witness this iconic attraction light up at night and dive into its mesmerizing ambiance. More details will be up soon.
Gradventure | May 1, 8, 15 & 21
Middle school graduates, it's time to celebrate! Enjoy a fun night with friends at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure during this exclusive ticketed event. I don't remember having such an epic celebration during my high school graduation. So grab this opportunity, you lucky bunch!
Summer Fun at Universal Orlando Resort | May–August
The hot season will be made even hotter by Universal Orlando's iconic summer festivities!
Universal Mega Movie Parade
Enjoy the thrill of rides and attractions at four theme parks and see your beloved movies come alive!
CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular
It's giving lights. It's giving drama. It's giving CineSational.
Get ready for an incredible journey with magical movie music and dancing fountains. Revisit your favorite films with legendary soundtracks that evoke the magic of Harry Potter™, the excitement of Jurassic World, and the suspense of Jaws.
Hogwarts Always
Discover the enchanting spectacle of Hogwarts™ Always, a spectacular new production that sweeps you into a magical experience throughout the school year at Hogwarts™. Delight in unforgettable tunes and mesmerizing moments of wizardry, enhanced by the awe-inspiring backdrop of Hogwarts™ castle.
Summer Concert Series at Universal CityWalk
Want to experience live shows the Universal way? Check out Universal CityWalk for the best music performances by the finest artists in town.
Summer Movie Series at Universal Cinemark
Summer is indeed one of the best times to visit Universal Orlando if you are a cinephile! Catch your favorite flicks at Cinemark for a fantastic movie series experience.
Fourth of July
Wear your red, white, and blue and bring sunscreen for a full day of Independence Day celebrations at Universal Orlando Resort, with special activities included in your ticket.
Back to Hogwarts | August 1–September 1
With the school year about to start, it's a great time to head back to Hogwarts! Don't forget to visit Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade to show off your house pride. Join the fun on September 1 as students leave King's Cross Station for Platform 9¾, heading to Hogwarts.
Wear your robes, take your wands, and join other witches and wizards for a celebration in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There's a ton to enjoy, from exciting attractions to tasty treats, making great memories for Back to Hogwarts.
Halloween Horror Nights | Select Nights August 28–November 1
Separately-ticketed event (EXTREMELY POPULAR!)
The Golden Ticket Legend Award for the Best Halloween Event is well-deserved when you experience this iconic Halloween event. If you are into jump scares and unbelievably terrifying adventures, don't ever skip Halloween Horror Nights.
Fall might be the perfect season to visit Universal Orlando this year because the resort takes Halloween very seriously. They don't mess around. Think multiple haunted houses and scare zones inspired by the best horror films. It's an extremely popular event, so make sure to get your tickets as early as possible.
Dark Arts | Select Nights in the Fall
Experience the dark side of magic during Dark Arts in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter on certain fall nights. Encounter Voldemort's followers in Diagon Alley as they seek new recruits for their cause.
As the sun sets over Hogsmeade, come to Hogwarts castle and see a chilling display of lights and music. Terrifying beings like Death Eaters and Dementors will invade the castle with creepy visuals and dark spells, summoning Lord Voldemort and his gang.
Holidays at Universal Orlando | November 14–January 3
Holiday experiences are included in your theme park admission.
Universal Holidays offer a unique and festive experience. Enjoy The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter across three parks, and watch giant balloons in the Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's.
Themed entertainment, seasonal food and merchandise, and festive decor will also be available throughout Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Orlando hotels.
Universal CityWalk Events | Year-Round
Looking for more festive food and fun? Explore CityWalk for an array of spectacular experiences that change with each season. Your vacation to Orlando is not complete without a visit to the park's dining and shopping hub. After enjoying thrilling attractions in Universal Studios Florida and Universal EPIC Universe, CityWalk offers a more laid-back experience.
Visit Universal Orlando this year for an amazing time!
And there you have it! For everyone who wants to visit Universal Orlando Resort this year, brace yourself for incredible experiences. These events at Universal Orlando are generally included with your theme park admission. But if you want to explore ticketed events, planning ahead is a must. Secure your tickets on time and take advantage of exclusive theme park benefits.
This 2026 Universal Orlando Resort events calendar will guide you to spectacular events and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Plan your trip, grab your discounted tickets, and get ready for an amazing time, Universal style. See you at the parks, FunExplorers!