It’s never too early to start planning the best year of your life, and Universal Orlando just made that even easier by releasing the dates for their major events in 2025! From Mardi Gras celebrations to spooky thrills and epic holiday cheer, there’s no shortage of excitement in the coming year. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Universal fan, there’s an event (or several) that are sure to make your 2025 unforgettable.

Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval (February 1–March 30)

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando is legendary, and 2025 promises to be no exception! Get ready to eat, dance and party your way through this incredible festival. With vibrant parades, jaw-dropping floats and mouthwatering dishes inspired by global Carnaval celebrations, Universal's Mardi Gras is one event you’ll want to mark on your calendar. And did we mention the bead tosses? Yeah, you’ll be catching plenty of those! 

Butterbeer Season (March 1–May 31)

Calling all Harry Potter fans! The magic continues with Butterbeer Season, a must-experience for anyone visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. From March 1 to May 31, you'll be able to sip on everyone’s favourite frothy drink in a variety of tasty forms—whether you prefer the classic cold Butterbeer or the hot and creamy version, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it! Pro tip: Sip and stroll through Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley for the full magical experience. And if you travel between May 22 and May 31 you can celebrate it in The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic in Universal Epic Universe.

Universal Volcano Bay Nights (April 19, 26, May 3, 10 & 17)

Universal is turning up the heat (literally) with Volcano Bay Nights! On select nights in April and May, you’ll get to experience this tropical water park after dark, with stunning lighting, exclusive entertainment and plenty of island vibes. Whether you're soaking in the view from the top of Krakatau or enjoying the waves under the stars, Volcano Bay at night is something you have to see to believe. 

Grand Opening of Universal Epic Universe (May 22)

This is BIG! Universal Orlando is opening its massive new theme park, Universal Epic Universe, on May 22, 2025, and you’re going to want to be there for the grand opening! Epic Universe promises groundbreaking attractions, immersive lands and an entirely new level of excitement. Be one of the first to explore this epic new chapter in Universal Orlando’s story—you don’t want to miss out on this universe of fun! 

Halloween Horror Nights (Select Nights August 29–November 2)

Get ready for spine-tingling thrills with Halloween Horror Nights! This fan-favourite event is back in 2025, and it’s going to be bigger and scarier than ever. With haunted houses based on your favourite movies and TV shows, terrifying scare zones and live entertainment that will send chills down your spine, HHN is not for the faint of heart. Grab your tickets and prepare for a frightfully fun time—just don’t say we didn’t warn you! 

Holidays at Universal Orlando (November 21–December 31)

End the year with a bang at Universal Orlando’s Holiday celebrations! From the dazzling Universal Orlando Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s to the festive décor throughout the parks, the holidays at Universal are nothing short of magical. Don’t forget to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where the streets of Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley and the Ministry of Magic will come alive with snow, lights and festive cheer. It’s the perfect way to wrap up an amazing year! 

Why You Should Plan Your Universal Orlando Trip Now

With all these amazing events on the horizon, 2025 is the year to visit Universal Orlando Resort. And guess what? Planning your trip now ensures you won’t miss out on your favourite event! Whether you’re coming for Mardi Gras, celebrating Halloween or ringing in the holidays, there’s something for everyone at Universal.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Universal Orlando trip now so you don’t miss a single moment of the fun! Trust us, your future self will thank you. And who better to help you plan the perfect getaway than Pure Magic Vacations? Our expert team will help you choose the best dates, book your tickets and customize your trip to make sure you don’t miss any of the action. 

Planning magical vacations for families since 2011, Pure Magic Vacations is a Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations U-Preferred Travel Agency - Platinum.