Best time to go to Universal Orlando in 2026

Honestly, there’s no bad time to go to Universal Orlando Resort. From New Orleans-style Mardi Gras in the spring and Halloween Horror Nights in the fall, to shaking hands with the evil green guy (Grinch) during the holidays, the parks and resorts at Universal Orlando really know how to throw a year-round party that keeps guests coming back for more.

But if you’re planning a 2026 vacation and can only visit this ever-expanding theme park resort once a calendar year, you’ll want to keep reading. I’m sharing the best times to visit Universal Orlando in 2026 based on crowds, festivities and deals that can save you money on your next vacation. So, get your wands ready, get ready to train your dragons, and never go alone, because Universal Orlando will be the place to be in 2026.

When is the best time to visit Universal Orlando in 2026 based on visitor numbers?

While there is no longer a “off season” at Orlando theme parks, there are periods of time when there are fewer visitors, making it easier to navigate from one ride to another. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, consider booking your trip to Universal Orlando earlier in the year. Think of dates between New Year’s Day and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, in January, and dates between President’s Day and the beginning of March, when spring break begins.

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If you want to travel later in the year, the best time to visit Universal Orlando in the fall is weekdays from September to early December, but try to avoid Thanksgiving.

When is the best time to visit Universal Orlando in 2026 for in-park festivities?

Universal Orlando is throwing some celebrations at its best parks for the big holiday. There are three main things you might want to plan your holidays for: Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, and Christmas.

Universal Mardi Gras

Universal Mardi Gras will take place from February 7 to April 4, 2026, at Universal Studios Florida. In-park festivities are part of your ticket. During Mardi Gras, you can dine on international cuisine from pop-up kitchens around the park and enjoy a lively Mardi Gras parade (and even get a chance to ride one of the floats to throw beads). Throughout the season, concerts are held in the park. As of 2025, artists include Joe Jonas, T-Pain, All Time Low, TLC, and more. The 2026 concert lineup will not be announced until publication.

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Halloween Horror Nights

As the days grow shorter and the fog begins to roll in, Halloween Horror Nights takes over the streets of Universal Studios Florida. This annual event is one of the largest Halloween theme park activations in the country. Halloween Horror Nights usually starts in late August and lasts until late October or early November. Every year, the houses, scare zones and entertainment offerings change, so you never know what will happen around every corner. Best of all, this spooky fun is spread across Universal CityWalk and several on-site hotels, so you can feel the scares along the way, even if you don’t go to the park every night.

Vacation at Universal Orlando

If you like everything bright, cheery, and festive, then Holidays at Universal is the perfect time to visit Universal Orlando in 2026. This annual event runs from late November to early January, although exact dates for 2026 have not been announced. Most of the holiday activities and fun are included in your park ticket, including seeing the Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley, meeting The Grinch at Suess Landing, and enjoying the beauty of the Universal Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s with balloons and larger-than-life characters.

When is the best time to visit Universal Orlando in 2026 to get the best deals?

There are great deals to be found almost year-round at Universal Orlando Resort. The best place to start looking at deals is tickets. Universal uses a ticket model where days that are expected to be busier are more expensive. If your travel dates are flexible, book your holiday on days when ticket prices are cheaper.

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Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure tickets start at $139, while Universal’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, starts at $159 for adults. If you plan to visit all three theme parks, consider a three-day pass that allows you to explore each, with one dedicated day at each park, which starts at $136 for adults.

When looking for a hotel, check out the special offers tab on the Universal Orlando website. This is where you’ll find deals for Florida residents, vacation package details, and more.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Universal Orlando in 2026

Should I avoid three-day weekends?

If possible, yes. Three-day weekends are usually very busy at all of Orlando’s theme parks because kids are out of school and some adults are off work. If you can only travel for a three-day weekend, consider planning must-do attractions, shows and dining experiences before heading to Orlando to ensure you get everything done in the parks first. Then any extra things your family does are a nice bonus.

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What if I can only visit when it’s supposed to be busy?

Any time at an amusement park is better than a boring day at home, school, or work. It’s okay if you can only visit when it’s supposed to be busy. What will help make your day easier is arriving at the park early so you can take advantage of the slower morning times. Additionally, you may want to consider booking a Universal Orlando Resort hotel that offers an included Express Pass (Universal’s skip-the-line service), which can significantly reduce wait times for popular attractions.

Can weather impact crowds?

Weather can have a big impact on people. During Orlando’s rainy season in the summer and early fall, thunderstorms and sometimes all-day rain can deter people from staying in the parks. While outdoor rides will be closed if there is lightning in the area, all indoor attractions, shows and dining will remain open. When it rains at Universal Orlando Resort, I love waiting in line for The Mummy or Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts at Universal Studios Florida, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man at Islands of Adventure, or one of the two indoor shows (The Untrainable Dragon and Le Cirque Arcanus) at Epic Universe.

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Heat can also play a big role in determining how enjoyable a day at an amusement park will be. From late May to early October, the weather in Orlando is very hot, with the hottest months being July, August, and September. If you plan to travel during these times, consider going to the park in the morning and afternoon, then returning to the hotel for a nap or swim in the afternoon. Additionally, be sure to bring plenty of supplies to stay cool, including a handheld fan and cooling towel, and drink plenty of water.

How many days should I spend at Universal Orlando in 2026?

If you really want to see it all at Universal Orlando Resort in 2026, four days is the perfect time. This gives you one day at each theme park, plus an extra day to hang out at the hotel, enjoy Volcano Bay (Universal Orlando’s water park), or visit your favorite theme park again.

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