Source: This story originated with Deadline.
Universal Studios Hollywood is mapping out its next seasonal transformation while Halloween Horror Nights is still underway, unveiling a holiday lineup that combines returning attractions with a new Minions experience.
The park’s annual festivities will run from Nov. 21 through Jan. 3, 2027, and will be included with regular theme park admission, according to Deadline, with City News Service contributing to the report.
“Grinchmas” and “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” are both returning. This year’s program will also introduce “Illumination’s Merry Minions” and bring seasonal decorations to Super Nintendo World.
Grinchmas Returns to Universal Plaza
Universal Plaza will once again become a holiday-themed Who-ville for Grinchmas. Its centerpiece will be a 65-foot Christmas tree covered with hundreds of ornaments and 200,000 LED lights.
The Grinch, his dog Max and residents of Who-ville will greet guests throughout the celebration. Cindy-Lou Who will also read How the Grinch Stole Christmas, while nightly tree-lighting ceremonies will include snowfall effects.
On select evenings, the 5 Towers stage will add live music, DJs and street performers to the seasonal programming.
Merry Minions Makes Its Debut
Minion Land is getting a new holiday component with the debut of “Illumination’s Merry Minions.” The animated characters will appear in seasonal attire and be available for meet-and-greet opportunities.
The area will also feature holiday decorations, themed food at Minion Cafe and seasonal merchandise. The debut gives the park’s holiday program a new character experience alongside the established Grinchmas and Wizarding World offerings.
Hogwarts Castle Gets a Nighttime Holiday Show
In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Hogsmeade village will be dressed with lights, garlands and wreaths. The Frog Choir will perform holiday music several times each day, according to the park.
After dark, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” will present holiday-themed projections accompanied by music from the films. Hot Butterbeer will also be available during the celebration.
Super Nintendo World Adds Seasonal Details
Super Nintendo World will join the festivities with its own decorative touches. At the entrance to the Mushroom Kingdom, guests will find Mario and Luigi snowmen near a Christmas tree crowned by a Super Star.
The additions give the park’s gaming-themed area a defined place in the wider seasonal event, which will extend across Universal Plaza, Minion Land, Hogsmeade and the Mushroom Kingdom.
ShowBiz Take
Universal Studios Hollywood’s holiday plan matters because it is not relying solely on its returning seasonal anchors. Grinchmas still supplies the large-scale tree, character appearances and nightly ceremony, while The Wizarding World of Harry Potter retains its decorated village, live performances and Hogwarts Castle projection show.
At the same time, “Illumination’s Merry Minions” adds a debut attraction, and Super Nintendo World expands the celebration into another major themed area. With all of the announced holiday festivities included in regular park admission, the program brings multiple entertainment properties into one seasonal schedule without requiring a separate event ticket.
What Happens Next?
The holiday celebration begins Nov. 21 and continues through Jan. 3, 2027. During that run, visitors will be able to see the returning Grinchmas and Wizarding World programs, meet the holiday-dressed Minions and view Super Nintendo World’s Mario and Luigi snowmen and Super Star-topped tree.