Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's
Visitors gather along the streets of Universal Studios Florida to watch larger-than-life balloons float overhead alongside classic festive floats. The procession features appearances by Illumination’s Minions, characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar films, and Santa.
What to Expect
Giant balloons and floats featuring Illumination and DreamWorks characters.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Universal Studios
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and visitors of all ages
Vibe
Big and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Included with a Theme Park Ticket or Annual Pass; blockout dates may apply. No dollar price is stated. – Get tickets
- Parking: Park in the garages at 6000 Universal Boulevard, where you can pre-pay for self-parking. Valet and accessible spaces are also available.
- Accessibility: Accessible parking is available with a valid placard or plate. The garages have moving sidewalks, escalators and elevators, and courtesy wheelchairs are available from the parking areas.
Tips & Advice
- Download the free Universal Orlando Resort App before you arrive so you can check showtimes on the interactive map and place mobile food orders.
- Pre-pay for self-parking before your visit to skip paying at the toll plaza, and keep your receipt in case you leave and come back that day.
- Book the Universal Holiday Tour if you want a reserved parade viewing area, but remember it needs a reservation and doesn't include park admission.
- Annual Passholders should check their blockout dates before planning a parade night, since the parade is included with an Annual Pass but blockouts may apply.
Special Events & Promotions
- On select dates from Nov. 14, 2026, to Jan. 2, 2027, the separately purchased Universal Holiday Tour offers an optional reserved parade-viewing area; reservations are required, and park admission is not included.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who appears in the parade?
Giant balloons, classic holiday floats, the Minions from Illumination's Despicable Me, characters from DreamWorks' Shrek and Madagascar films, and Santa in his sleigh.
Is the parade good for all ages?
Yes. It's for everyone: adults, teens, tweens and kids under 7.
Can I get reserved viewing for the parade?
Yes, on the Universal Holiday Tour. It's a guided daytime tour on select dates that includes an optional reserved viewing area for the parade. It also includes reserved seats for the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular and meet-and-greets with the Grinch, Max and Santa. You need a reservation, and park admission isn't included.
Where do I park?
Universal Studios Florida uses the parking garages at 6000 Universal Boulevard. You can pre-pay for regular self-parking before you arrive, and valet is also available.
Is there accessible parking?
Yes. Accessible spaces are available with a valid disability placard or plate. The garages have moving sidewalks, escalators and elevators, and courtesy wheelchairs can take you from the parking areas to the rental locations at the front of the parks.
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