Have a Merry Grinchmas at Universal Orlando (2023 Ultimate Guide To The BEST Trip)

Have you ever had the chance to experience Grinchmas at Universal Orlando Resort? If you haven’t, then you’re missing out on one of Orlando’s fun holiday festivities.

Islands of Adventure Seuss Landing is completely decorated with yuletide magic in celebration of Dr. Seuss’s classic book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas that was published over 50 years ago.

Grinchmas at Universal Orlando Resort Seuss Landing Entrance Islands of Adventure

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How The Grinch Stole Christmas!

This Dr. Seuss story is about a revenge-seeking Grinch who lives on the outskirts of Who-ville.

Grinchmas at Universal Orlando Resort Grinch Christmas Store Islands of Adventure

Since he is detested by the citizens of this town, he plans on destroying Christmas for all the Whos living in Who-ville.

Dr. Seuss’s classic book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas that was published over 50 years ago.

This legendary story would go on to produce multiple films in 1966, 2000, and 2018. Plus, an annual event that takes place inside Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

You can get your copy of the book How the Grinch Stole Christmas on Amazon here.

History of Grinchmas at Universal Islands of Adventure

Over the years, Grinchmas has transformed Islands of Adventure into a wintery holiday since December of 2000.

Universal Orlando Resort Grinchmas Christmas decor in Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure
Grinchmas

The Seuss-inspired holiday would go on to have tree lighting ceremonies, seasonal treats, and other festival happenings.

Christmas at Universal Grinchmas Seuss Landing Islands of Adventure with Green Christmas Tree

This event would open as a tie in to the hit film starring Jim Carrey that featured Cindy Lou Who, Max, the Grinch, and Martha May.

Dr. Seuss’s classic book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas that was published over 50 years ago. Hit film starring Jim Carrey on Amazon.

Grinchmas was thought to have been brought on as Universal’s own interpretation of Christmas in order to compete with the likes of Disney.

Honk Honkers Christmas decor during Grinchmas at Universal Islands of Adventure

Universal would do this by transforming Seuss Landing into Who-ville complete with the Grinch’s Lair.

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The Grinch’s Lair

The lair was built to look like the Grinch’s home from the 2000 film and once guests ended their walkthrough, they’d be greeted by the infamous man himself.

Christmas at Universal Grinchmas Seuss Landing Islands of Adventure

Throughout the dark queue, guest would see all kind of trinkets known to the Grinch plus a few interactive elements within the queue.

Tribute Store Grinch Area Christmas at Universal Studios in Universal Orlando Resort

Unfortunately, The Grinch’s Lair would close to make way for the High in the Sky Seuss Trolley.

 

Prior to the current home of Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular on the Universal Orlando soundstage, the Grinchmas show would take place on a small stage between Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous and the All You Can Read bookstore complete with a tree lighting ceremony towards the end of the day.

The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride
The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride

You can rent or buy the 2000 film, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, here on Amazon.

Preparing for Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Before we get into all the fun activities of this Who-ville holiday, let’s go over a few questions that you may have about the event.

Seuss Landing | Islands of Adventure #universalorlando #themepark
Seuss Landing | Islands of Adventure

When Does Grinchmas Start and End for 2022?

This year, Grinchmas is happening from November 12, 2022 through January 1, 2023. You’ll be able to see the Grinch and the characters of Whoville roaming Islands of Adventure in the Spirit of the Season.

Merry Merry Seuss Landing Entrance at Islands of Adventure

What is Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular?

The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular is a special holiday showing of the classic tale How The Grinch Stole Christmas. It features music recorded by Mannheim Steamroller and a score composed by Chip Davis.

Who Holiday Spectacular Show at Grinchmas in Universal Islands of Adventure
Photo Courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort

This Grinchmas show takes place inside one of the sound stages on property that’s right between both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.

Grinchmas during Christmas at Universal Islands of Adventure
Photo Courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort

You definitely have to watch this touching Grinchmas show during your visit to Islands of Adventure once it returns.

How much are Grinchmas tickets?

Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure is FREE and is included with your park admission.

Universal Orlando Resort Seuss Landing Entrance at Christmas Islands of Adventure

So, once you pay to get into Islands of Adventure you won’t have to worry about having to pay a separate price for this holiday adventure.

Check out the ticket breakdown for Universal Orlando Resort here!

Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Not only can you enjoy the incredible show of Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, you can dine with the Grinch himself for breakfast. 

Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular Breakfast

Grinchmas Character Breakfast

Breakfast with the Grinch and other Seuss Landing characters is a separately-ticketed experience on select dates at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous and you must have already paid for park admission to participate.

The Circus McGurkus Cafe StooPendous Christmas Decor in Islands of Adventure for Grinchmas

This holiday breakfast is quite interactive. The characters at Universal Orlando always have great improvisational skills, but during this character meet-and-greet, there’s little bit more of the Who-ville Christmas magic.

Christmas at Universal Grinchmas Christmas Tree in Seuss Landing

When does the Grinch Character breakfast start and end?

The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast starts on November 12, 2022 and continues until December 29, 2022.

The Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast during Christmas at Universal Islands of Adventure Grinchmas (2)
Photo Courtesy of Universal Orlando

You can book this experience by by visiting www.universalorlando.com/holidays.

How much is the Grinch Character Breakfast at Universal?

The cost for this holiday experience is $41.99 (plus tax) for adults and $26.99 (plus tax) for children. As previously mentioned, a separate theme park admission is required.

The Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast during Christmas at Universal Islands of Adventure Grinchmas
Photo Courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort

You’ll be happy to know that Annual and Seasonal Passholders are able to get a 20% discount on the dining experience.

Recommended: 27 Most Festive Things to Do in Orlando for Christmas 

Atmosphere in Seuss Landing during Grinchmas

The holiday spirit is felt all across Seuss Landing. All of the Whos come out to partake in the Christmas festivities with you!

The Grinch Grinchmas Merchandise Christmas at Universal Studios in Universal Orlando Resort

Plus, their interactions are top-notch which is something that I truly enjoy during Grinchmas.

Truffula Trees in Seuss Landing
Truffula Trees in Seuss Landing

You’ll not only be engulfed in the holiday décor, you’ll see a particular Who sleeping on benches, Whos singing holiday carols, and Whos ready to tell you some of the many wonderful Christmas stories.

It’s so magical!

8 Tips for the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular You MUST KNOW

Before we end this Who-liday guide, let’s go through some tips to help you make the most of your time during Grinchmas.

Christmas at Universal Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular
  1. Be aware that there are no restrooms inside the soundstage. The nearest one will be back inside of Seuss Landing so you want to go before you get in line (Please note that is rumored that the location may change, so I will update this information once Universal confirms).
  2. Make sure to get a photo with the Grinch during your visit as he’s usually roaming the area of Seuss Landing (check park map upon your arrival for the times)
  3. Don’t miss the fun decorations outside the show building while waiting in queue line
  4. Experience the Grinchmas Breakfast
  5. Get in line for the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular about 30 minutes prior to the show
  6. Look out for Max’s dog house as Max is played by a real dog
  7. One of the best seats in the house is the upper middle area near the right side of the stage (here you’ll get a good view of key props and scenes)
  8. Please note that it is bleacher-style seating inside the soundstage where the Grinchmas show takes place

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

What to Know Before You Go to Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure is located in the Universal Orlando Resort and is just a quick ten minute walk from Universal Studios or a short ride on the Hogwarts Express.

Port of Christmas Shop at Islands of Adventure
Port of Christmas Shop at Islands of Adventure

What time does Islands of Adventure open?

Universal’s Islands of Adventure is opened 365 days a year from 9 a.m to 6 p.m. in the regular season. Hours may change based on the busyness of the park.

Seuss Landing Entrance at Christmastime

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How much does it cost to go to Islands of Adventure in Florida?

The cost of admission starts at $125*, but I like discounts so I use The Park Prodigy and Groupon to find cheap Islands of Adventure tickets.

Port of Christmas Shop at Islands of Adventure
Port of Christmas Shop at Islands of Adventure

*Please keep in mind that the cost for tickets to Islands of Adventure vary based on the season and are subject to change at anytime.

What rides to do first at Islands of Adventure?

Hipster Power Tip: If you find a ride or an experience that you’re on the fence about on day one, wait until your second day to try it out.

What is the best time to go to Islands of Adventure?

The best times to visit Islands of Adventure are:

  • January
  • February
  • April
  • November

These months are closely followed by March, May, September, and October as still pretty decent visiting times.

Port of Christmas Shop at Islands of Adventure
Port of Christmas Shop at Islands of Adventure

Get the full Islands of Adventure Crowd Calendar here!

My Final Thoughts on Grinchmas at Universal

Overall, you’re going to have a fun day experiencing Grinchmas at Universal.

Tribute Store The Grinch Area Christmas at Universal Studios in Universal Orlando Resort for Grinchmas

It’s a great addition to Islands of Adventure during the holidays and it’s a perfect memory for you to create on your next trip to the parks.

Grinchmas Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort
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This is a staple of holiday time at the Universal parks and a holiday traditional you must start.

If you enjoy this article, then you’ll love these holiday-inspired tips:

Have a Merry, Merry Grinchmas Hipsters!

NikkyJ

(Original Date: August 25, 2014/Updated October 22, 2022)

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