Something big could be coming to Universal Orlando Resort’s reservation system, and families planning Christmas vacations should pay attention.
Every holiday season, the resort offers plenty of festive entertainment, but certain experiences are considerably harder to secure than others.
One popular offering has become especially competitive, with limited availability and a booking process that rewards guests who plan ahead.
Now, with October underway, another major reservation release appears to be approaching.
A Popular Universal Orlando Experience Could Open for Booking Next Week
Universal Orlando’s Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast is expected to return during the resort’s 2026 holiday celebration.
The experience has traditionally taken place inside Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous at Islands of Adventure, giving guests an opportunity to enjoy a meal alongside the Grinch and characters from Whoville.
For families, the biggest attraction is the character interaction.
Instead of waiting in a potentially lengthy meet-and-greet line, guests can enjoy a sit-down breakfast while the characters visit their tables.
However, there’s a catch.
The breakfast requires advance reservations, and popular dates have sold out within days of becoming available.
In 2025, reservations opened on October 8.
As of October 8, 2026, Universal has not confirmed when bookings will begin for this year’s experience.
Still, the previous timeline suggests reservations could open very soon, possibly next week.
What Guests Should Know Before Booking
The Grinch Breakfast is a separately ticketed experience, meaning families must pay beyond the cost of regular theme park admission.
Last year’s prices were $58.99 for adults and $32.99 for children ages 3 through 9, plus taxes.
Guests received breakfast, a beverage, treats, and opportunities to interact with the Grinch and other Whoville residents.
Universal has not released the 2026 menu or pricing, so families should expect additional details when reservations become available.
Those hoping to participate should also remember that valid Islands of Adventure admission is required.
Christmas Returns Across Universal Orlando
The anticipated booking announcement comes just weeks before Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort begins on November 14.
The celebration runs through January 3, 2027, bringing festive entertainment across Universal’s theme parks.
At Islands of Adventure, guests can enjoy Grinchmas and the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.
Meanwhile, Universal Studios Florida will feature Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, complete with giant balloons, festive floats, and Santa Claus.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will also celebrate the season, while Epic Universe will feature holiday decorations throughout several of its themed areas.
For visitors who don’t secure breakfast reservations, the regular Grinch character experience offers another opportunity to meet the famous holiday troublemaker.
However, families determined to enjoy the exclusive breakfast should prepare now.
Universal hasn’t announced an exact reservation date, but if history repeats itself, the next major holiday booking rush could be just around the corner.
