Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.
Universal Orlando Rings in 2026 with DJs, Characters, Countdown Spectaculars, and the First-Ever Epic Universe New Year’s Eve Celebration
Universal Orlando is ready to blast 2025 into the stratosphere and welcome 2026 with a whole resort-wide party that’s bigger, brighter, and far more energetic than any confetti cannon Andy could dream up. From DJ dance floors under the stars to character meet and greets, exclusive hotel celebrations, extended park hours, and the first New Year’s Eve ever hosted inside Universal Epic Universe, this year’s festivities are shaping up to be a firework-free frenzy of fun.
Related: Christmas Dining Coming to the Hotels at Universal Orlando Resort
The party starts in Universal Studios Florida, where the Music Plaza transforms into a buzzing celebration beginning at 6:15 p.m. Guests can jam out to a live DJ, snap photos with roaming stilt walkers and select floats from Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, and enjoy a special showing of CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular at 10 p.m. As midnight approaches, the Music Plaza becomes countdown central, setting the stage for a high-energy welcome to 2026.
Over at Islands of Adventure, the vibe kicks off at 6:15 p.m. too, with a DJ in Port of Entry setting the rhythm for the night. Characters will be out greeting guests, while music and performers keep the energy swirling through Seuss Landing and Toon Lagoon. Dedicated countdown areas across those lands give everyone from Grinch fans to Toon Lagoon loyalists the perfect spot to celebrate the big moment.
For the first time in the park’s history, Universal Epic Universe joins the New Year’s Eve lineup, and it’s stepping into the spotlight in celestial style. Guests can explore the park’s cutting-edge attractions, then gather in Celestial Park where the Hemisphere Stage hosts a DJ and live entertainment. As the clock strikes midnight, a special fountain spectacular will ripple across the waterways, creating an unforgettable start to the year in Universal’s newest world.
Throughout all three parks, guests can soak up the final days of Universal’s Holiday celebration through January 4, enjoying Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, the Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, seasonal treats, and the always-magical Holidays Tribute Store.
CityWalk keeps the beat going with DJ sets and live music at the Waterfront Stage and the Green & Red Coconut Club, festive décor, themed cocktails, roving performers, and a resort-wide countdown celebration that transforms the complex into a New Year’s Eve block party.
Universal’s hotels round out the celebration with options for every style. Adults can dress to impress at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel’s first-ever New Year’s Eve Party at the Palace, featuring dinner, drinks, a DJ, and sweeping views of Epic Universe. Families can dance the night away at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel’s Party on the Piazza with food stations, desserts, beer, and wine.
Guests at Universal Aventura Hotel can enjoy a 21+ rooftop celebration with Korean- and Latin-inspired bites, signature cocktails, and panoramic views of Orlando. Special New Year’s buffets at The Kitchen at Hard Rock Hotel, Islands Dining Room at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, and Amatista Cookhouse at Sapphire Falls help bring the culinary sparkle, while seasonal offerings at Cabana Bay, Endless Summer, Stella Nova, and Terra Luna make sure no guest ends 2025 hungry.
Related: Ultimate 4-Park Universal Orlando Itinerary
Universal Orlando is all set to send off the year with a resort-wide celebration that feels like a confetti explosion of music, magic, and midnight joy. If you’re planning to step into 2026 with style, this destination has rolled out the red carpet, the dance floor, and the fountain show.
Get all the best Disney News
and more, straight to your inbox!
We don't spam. Read our privacy policy for more info.
For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!
Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
Click Here for your FREE No Obligation Quote.
