Universal Orlando. Photo: Shutterstock Universal Orlando Resort has revealed the highly-anticipated Events and Experiences Guide giving horror fans and adrenaline-loving travelers an early look at what to expect in 2026.
The calendar mentions plenty of crowd favorites, starting with the return of Rock the Universe planned as early as January 23 and January 24, 2026, with its familiar mix of Christian music and park access.
Halloween Horror Night. Photo: ShutterstockUniversal Mardi Gras follows soon after, running from February 7 through April 4, bringing parade floats, live performances, and food inspired by New Orleans.
Later in the year, Halloween Horror Nights takes over from August 28 to November 1, once again promising haunted houses, scare zones, and themed food and drink experiences. The year wraps with Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort, scheduled from November 14, 2026 through January 3, 2027.
A major focus in 2026 will be the 25th anniversary of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. To mark the milestone, Universal has planned a number of themed events that will be throughout the year, including Butterbeer Season (March 1-May 31), Back to Hogwarts (August 1-September 1), and Dark Arts experiences during select fall dates.
Annual passholders will also have their own slate of perks during Passholder Appreciation Days, running from August 15 through September 30.
“Passholders can take advantage of UOAP perks throughout the parks, hotels and Universal CityWalk during Passholder Appreciation Days presented by Coca-Cola,” Universal said.
The guide also highlights opportunities for guests who want to mix fun with giving back. One example is the US Hunger Meal Packing initiative, which allows visitors to help assemble more than half a million meals for residents across Central Florida.
Music fans will find plenty to enjoy as well, including Velvet Sessions and Velvet Unplugged at the Hard Rock Hotel, known for intimate live performances by established artists.
Hotel-based events are another big part of the lineup. Guests can attend an acoustic brunch on Sundays at the Hard Rock Hotel’s The Kitchen, enjoy the Wantilan Luau dinner show on Saturday nights at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, or book tickets to Harbor Nights on select dates in February, April, October, and November, featuring Mediterranean cuisine, wine, and live opera.
Holiday dining also gets special attention. “Special dining will also be available for guests on Easter, Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve at participating hotels,” Universal said, listing several on-property resorts taking part.