Christmas has officially returned to Universal Orlando Resort, and one of the destination’s most unusual holiday traditions is back with a few surprises.
While visitors are enjoying enormous Christmas trees, festive entertainment, and seasonal decorations, something much smaller is getting attention at Universal Studios Florida.
A familiar character has returned to his longtime hiding spot, but this year’s version looks a little different. In fact, the improvements have already led to an unexpected moment that visitors weren’t necessarily supposed to see.
Universal Orlando Welcomes Back Earl the Squirrel
Earl the Squirrel has officially returned to the massive Christmas tree in the New York section of Universal Studios Florida.
The beloved character has become a recognizable part of Universal Orlando’s Christmas celebrations, but his latest appearance comes with some noticeable upgrades.
Earl is a small brown squirrel wearing a red-and-black plaid hat. He occasionally emerges from an opening among the tree’s branches, giving guests a chance to spot him surrounded by colorful ornaments and garlands.
For 2026, Universal has added movement to his head, arms, and bushy tail.
The improvements make Earl appear more animated than in previous years, although his return hasn’t been entirely smooth.
During a recent visit, the squirrel was spotted leaning forward inside the tree, with his hat pointing toward the ground and his tail sticking upward.
His face was partially hidden, but the upgraded movements continued operating.
It’s unclear whether Universal has already adjusted his position.
A Christmas Tradition That Started With a Real Squirrel
Earl’s history is one of the more unusual stories behind Universal Orlando’s seasonal entertainment.
Nearly two decades ago, employees discovered that a real squirrel had made itself at home inside the park’s Christmas tree.
The animal reportedly developed a habit of stealing blue Christmas lights, inspiring Universal’s entertainment employees to place a moving squirrel figure among the branches.
What started as a joke eventually became a guest favorite.
Over time, Earl’s popularity grew beyond the Christmas tree, with merchandise, character appearances, and additional holiday offerings.
The squirrel has even become part of the resort’s early Christmas preparations.
Earl Is Getting an Even Bigger Christmas Celebration
This year’s upgrades are only part of Earl’s growing presence at Universal Orlando.
The character is scheduled to make history on November 26 when he appears as a giant balloon in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
As previously reported, Universal Orlando confirmed the historic parade debut in October.
Following the New York City celebration, Earl’s balloon will join Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida in early December.
Guests can also find Earl-inspired merchandise, character appearances, and a seasonal dessert featuring chocolate cake and hazelnut flavors.
His growing popularity comes as Universal expands its holiday entertainment across all three theme parks.
The resort has introduced additional Christmas food offerings, while Islands of Adventure continues celebrating Grinchmas.
Some visitors may also notice changes to the Christmas decorations in Seuss Landing.
Universal’s holiday festivities continue through January 3, 2027, giving guests several weeks to enjoy the seasonal entertainment.
For Earl, the season represents another major milestone. What began as a small joke inside a Christmas tree has become a tradition recognized by visitors from around the world.
And even with his slightly awkward return, the little squirrel is getting more attention than ever.
