Christmas at Universal Studios and Harry Potter World Hollywood is amazing and the Potterheads are here for it!!! I mean, honestly, Christmas + Harry Potter? Yes, please! The kids are finally at the age (7 and 5 years old) where they both enjoy reading the Harry Potter books aloud and – not surprisingly – my son (the 5-year-old) has taken hold of Harry and made him his own. My little kid is no longer a toddler but has more imagination than the rest of his family combined, so experiencing the Christmas season at Universal Studios Hollywood was something special.
Christmas at Universal Studios
Earlier in November, Universal Studios Hollywood celebrated the opening of “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” for the first time, transforming Hogwarts castle with a breathtaking animated light projection show, choreographed to a musical arrangement from the Harry Potter movies that will make you feel as though you’re right there at Hogwarts! The Entertainment Capital of L.A. truly kicked off the yuletide season with all the magic Harry Potter is known for. The all-new holiday experience will begin November 24th and runs through January 7th. You won’t want to miss it!
Here are some of our favorites parts of Christmas at Harry Potter World Hollywood…
Christmas at Harry Potter World Hollywood
From its snow-capped roofs and cobblestone streets to the historic British sensibilities that characterize the whimsical look and feel of the land, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” transports guests of all ages to the very places they watched on the silver screen. My kids love the magic of Harry Potter during Christmas and Universal Studios Hollywood captures that essence beautifully.
Harry Potter World Hollywood resonates with immense detail, inviting guests to revel in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World with the opportunity to enjoy authentic food and beverages at multiple locations, including Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head pub, as well as the Magic Neep and Butterbeer™ carts.
A foray through the shops adds to the authenticity of the land with nine retail venues and locations, including:
- Honeydukes™
- Ollivanders™
- Owl Post™
- Zonko’s™ Joke Shop
- Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment
- Dervish and Banges™
- Gladrags Wizardwear
- Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods
- Hogsmeade™ Station
Related: Universal Studios for Toddlers and Kids
Harry Potter’s Hogsmeade Village at Christmas
Hogsmeade village shines brightly as the quaint town celebrates with festive décor uniquely themed to each of the individual storefronts, along with holiday-themed fare served at Three Broomsticks and the eagerly-awaited seasonal return of HOT Butterbeer.
Mom Tip: Hot Butterbeer is only served at Hog’s Head Pub!
The architecturally stunning land also includes the captivating and highly acclaimed “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” thrill ride, which is now enhanced with 4K-HD and is a super immersive glimpse into Harry Potter’s world. It was a little scary for Sebastian, who is typically scared of roller coasters, but he was happy to have experienced. “Flight of the Hippogriff” was Alina’s favorite and is Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor family coaster.
Harry Potter Christmas Village
From stockings to ornaments, Universal Studios Hollywood has added so many beautiful keepsakes and gift-giving items for all your Potter fans – including this new Quidditch player! A wide selection of all-new custom-made Christmas ornaments created especially for “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” are available, including a variety of decorative Hogwarts castle snow globes, Hogwarts crest and mascot ornaments representing each of the houses, as well as a collection of unique tree toppers and house pennant garland. I seriously wanted it ALL!
Mom Tip: As new readers of the series, I make my kids “graduate” to a new book before they get a new collectible. When they finish reading all the books, they will have earned their very own wand! Good for the budget and keeps them reading!
Enjoy authentic food and beverages at multiple locations throughout the world, including Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head pub, as well as the Magic Neep and Butterbeer carts. Dinner was delicious with roast turkey, pig-in-a-blanket, a medley of vegetables…. and Christmas pudding, of course!
Holiday Light Show at Harry Potter World
As night falls on Hogsmeade village, the familiar sounds of Harry Potter music will resonate throughout “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” and the anticipation of The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle begins. The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle is a breathtaking light show that is shown multiple times an evening. The show is a little over seven minutes in length and full of excitement you won’t want to miss! The show times change daily, so make sure you check your guide at the start of your day.
Mom Tip: Grab that HOT Butterbeer and find a spot nearest the main gate of the Forbidden Journey Ride for the best viewing of this beautiful light show!
Christmas at Universal Studios and Harry Potter World Hollywood is kicking off the holiday season with lost of joys, sweet treats and illuminating shows. I hope you and your Potter fans get to experience it this season, too!
