Universal Orlando Resort is gearing up to ring in 2026 with destination-wide celebrations — including live DJs, character appearances, extended park hours, midnight countdowns, and the first-ever New Year’s Eve festivities inside Universal Epic Universe. From family-friendly parties to late-night rooftop events, guests will have more ways than ever to welcome the new year across the entire resort.
Here’s everything happening on December 31.
Theme Park Celebrations
Universal Studios Florida
Festivities begin at 6:15 p.m. with a live DJ at the Music Plaza Stage, roaming stilt walkers, and select floats from Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s available for photo ops.
Guests can also catch CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular at 10 p.m., followed by a high-energy midnight countdown near the Music Plaza Stage.
Universal Islands of Adventure
Starting at 6:15 p.m., Port of Entry transforms into party central with a live DJ, entertainment throughout the park, and meet-and-greets with fan-favorite characters.
Dedicated countdown viewing areas will be available in:
- Port of Entry
- Seuss Landing
- Toon Lagoon
Universal Epic Universe
Epic Universe joins New Year’s Eve for the first time ever, giving guests the chance to celebrate inside the newest park.
Guests can enjoy:
- Live entertainment and a DJ at the Hemisphere Stage in Celestial Park
- A special midnight countdown featuring an exclusive fountain show that spans the waterways of Celestial Park
- Access to the park’s award-winning attractions throughout the evening
Enjoy the Final Days of Universal Orlando’s Holidays Celebration
While celebrating New Year’s Eve, guests can also experience the last stretch of Universal Orlando’s Holidays programming, running through January 4. Highlights include:
- Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Grinchmas
- Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s
- Holiday Tribute Store
- Seasonal treats, beverages, and festive merchandise
Universal CityWalk Celebrations
CityWalk will once again become one giant party zone on New Year’s Eve with:
- Live DJs and music at the Waterfront Stage
- Entertainment and holiday cocktails at the Green & Red Coconut Club
- Stilt walkers and roaming performers
- Resort-wide midnight countdown moments
Hotel Events & Dining
Universal Orlando’s hotels offer a variety of New Year’s Eve experiences — from upscale adults-only parties to family-friendly celebrations and special dining events.
Universal Helios Grand Hotel (21+)
New Year’s Eve Party at the Palace
- Elegant evening event featuring dinner, drinks, DJ entertainment
- Exclusive views of Epic Universe from Bar Helios
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Party on the Piazza
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Family-friendly celebration with food stations, desserts, beer & wine, live music, and dancing
Universal Aventura Hotel (21+)
Rooftop New Year’s Eve Celebration
- Korean- and Latin-inspired food stations
- Specialty cocktails
- Panoramic views of Orlando’s skyline
Special Holiday Buffets
Available at:
- The Kitchen (Hard Rock Hotel)
- Islands Dining Room (Loews Royal Pacific Resort)
- Amatista Cookhouse (Loews Sapphire Falls Resort)
Additional festive dining and seasonal menu items will also be served at:
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Endless Summer Resort
- Stella Nova Resort
- Terra Luna Resort…and more.
Plan Your Night
With celebrations happening at three theme parks, CityWalk, and 11 hotels, Universal Orlando’s New Year’s Eve offerings are bigger than ever. Whether it’s entertainment-packed countdowns, elegant hotel parties, or panoramic rooftop celebrations, guests have no shortage of memorable ways to welcome 2026.
More details can be found at UniversalOrlando.com/Holidays.
Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she’s been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she’s not at a theme park, she’s probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.