Universal Orlando Just Announced ALL the Important Dates for 2026

2026 is going to be a big year for Universal Orlando!

Universal Studios

The resort has quite a few celebrations planned in the coming months, so if you’re hoping to make a visit, you’ll want to see the schedule ahead of time. So what’s on the docket? Let’s take a look at the calendar!

First on the list is Rock the Universe, which is the biggest Christian music festival in Florida. It returns to Universal Studios Florida on January 23rd and 24th, 2026. Keep in mind that this festival often draws large crowds to the parks for the weekend.

©Universal

Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval is next! This year, it’ll take place from February 7th through April 4th. Universal goes BIG for Mardi Gras with food booths, special entertainment, performances by popular music artists, and of course, the iconic parade.

Mardi Gras will be back before we know it!

Harry Potter fans may want to plan their trips for August 1st through September 1st because then it’s time for Back to Hogwarts, baby! Or, maybe you’re more interested in coming from March 1st through May 31st — that’ll be Butterbeer Season.

Butterbeer!

Also, this fall, Dark Arts returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This celebration will include the projection spectacle “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” in Hogsmeade, and roaming Death Eaters in the streets of Diagon Alley. More details are to be shared at a later date.

Hogwarts

From August 15th through September 30th, Universal Orlando will offer Passholder Appreciation Days. They’ve shared that this event will offer perks “throughout the parks, hotels, and Universal CityWalk.” For more information, stay tuned to the Universal Orlando website.

Universal Orlando’s past Passholder perks

Then, one of the biggest events of the year is coming back…Halloween Horror Nights! In 2026, it will take place from August 28th through November 1st. Of course, there will be more spooky haunted houses, scare zones, entertainment, treats, and more. This year will be the event’s 35th anniversary.

HHN 2024 Tribute Store

Finally, to wrap up the year, Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort will return November 14th, 2026, through January 3rd, 2027. This will include the return of Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, Grinchmas, and holidays in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. We’re excited already!

The Christmas tree!

Universal also shared in these announcements that Volcano Bay Nights are returning for 2026, but no dates or details have been revealed yet. We’ll just have to stay tuned!