Universal Orlando Resort decided to wrap up the year with a surprise no one had on their bingo card. Guests preparing for New Year’s Eve celebrations discovered that Epic Universe would feature an exclusive experience available for one night only. It’s the kind of offering that immediately sparks that “wish you were there” energy, promising a moment future fans will talk about long after it’s gone. Universal recently revealed just enough to build excitement, and the anticipation has only grown as New Year’s Eve approaches.
Before exploring what’s happening that night, it helps to look at how Epic Universe became the perfect setting for something this special.
Epic Universe Ushers In a Bold New Era
Epic Universe has quickly earned a reputation as Universal’s most ambitious project yet. The park’s sprawling design pulls guests into themed worlds that feel complete and fully alive. Visitors can glide through dragon-filled skies in the Isle of Berk, dive into SUPER NINTENDO WORLD’s larger-than-life adventures, or roam Celestial Park’s tranquil pathways and shimmering waterways.
Universal built this park to push the limits of themed entertainment, and every corner reflects that mindset. With such a high level of detail and immersion, layering a one-night-only celebration on top of it turns New Year’s Eve into something entirely different—something worth remembering.
As the holidays continue across the resort, that energy spills into every celebration Universal has planned.
Universal’s Holiday Season Heats Up
The resort thrives this time of year, driven by seasonal entertainment, festive food, and holiday overlays across each land. As Christmas fades and New Year’s Eve takes focus, Universal enters one of its most spirited stretches. Events span CityWalk, the theme parks, and hotels, giving guests several ways to join the celebration.
Island of Adventure’s Night of Music and Fun
Islands of Adventure dives right in with festivities beginning at 6:15 p.m. The evening kicks off with a live DJ set at the Port of Entry, setting the mood for a night filled with entertainment. Guests will find “music, character meet and greets, and themed interactions” throughout the park, keeping the excitement alive at every turn. A midnight countdown ties it all together, with viewing spots in Seuss Landing, Port of Entry, and Toon Lagoon.
Universal Studios Florida Ramps Up the Party
Over at Universal Studios Florida, the energy reaches a new level.
The park begins its celebration at 6:15 p.m. with a DJ, stilt walkers, and floats from Universal’s Holiday Parade. At 10 p.m., CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular takes over the lagoon before the countdown returns to Music Plaza Stage.
CityWalk Becomes a Nightlong Celebration
CityWalk stretches its festivities from one end to the other, offering live music and DJ sets at both the Waterfront Stage and the Green and Red Coconut Club. Guests can expect holiday cocktails, themed décor, and roaming entertainers. A resort-wide countdown welcomes 2026 in a loud and bright style.
Hotels Offer Their Own New Year’s Magic
Universal’s hotels don’t sit on the sidelines for New Year’s Eve celebrations. The Universal Helios Grand Hotel hosts the first-ever Party at the Palace with dinner, drinks, a DJ, and Epic Universe views. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel’s Party on the Piazza welcomes families with food stations, desserts, drinks, and lively music.
At Universal Aventura Hotel, adults gather on the rooftop for cocktails and globally inspired dishes. Hard Rock, Royal Pacific, Sapphire Falls, Cabana Bay, Endless Summer, Stella Nova, and Terra Luna offer buffets or seasonal menus.
Epic Universe’s Exciting Reveal
The spotlight turns back to Epic Universe, where the park hosts its first New Year’s Eve celebration ever. Guests gain access to all of the park’s award-winning attractions, plus live entertainment and a DJ set at the Hemisphere Stage. As midnight approaches, Celestial Park comes alive with a special fountain show that spans its waterways.
This is a true one-night-only moment. Universal is giving fans a glimpse of what future holidays at Epic Universe may become, but this exact lineup won’t return. With the holidays still in full swing—Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s—the night becomes even more memorable.
A New Universal Tradition Begins
Epic Universe stepping into New Year’s Eve for the first time marks the beginning of something big. This debut event signals how Universal plans to use its newest park in bold, creative ways. And for the guests lucky enough to be there, it promises a night they’ll never forget.
