I went to holiday celebrations at Disney World and Universal, and the latter is a way better value

Carly CaramannaJan 15, 2024, 03:39 IST

I attended the holiday celebrations at Disney World and Universal in Orlando. Carly Caramanna

I'm a frequent guest at Disney World and Universal, but the latter is better for the holidays.
Between costly add-ons and rising ticket prices, it's getting too expensive to go to Disney.

I've been visiting Disney World and Universal Orlando for over 30 years.

As a theme park journalist, I frequent the parks throughout the year, but the holidays are my favorite time to visit. From stunning decor to specialty eats, both theme parks go all out.

Here's how the two holiday celebrations stack up.

It’s getting more expensive to experience the Disney parks during the holidays.

Standard ticket prices at Disney World tend to go up at the end of the year.Carly Caramanna

Universal’s admission is much more affordable.

I don't think Universal's tickets are as expensive. Carly Caramanna

I love exploring Disney World’s resorts, but they're expensive to stay at during the holidays.

There are fun gingerbread houses at the Disney resorts during the holidays. Carly Caramanna

I’ve found great deals at Universal hotels during the holidays.

Universal doesn't have as many resorts, but they usually have some good deals. Carly Caramanna

Disney’s after-hours events feature exclusive holiday experiences — at a price.

Jollywood Nights is a ticket add-on at Disney World. Carly Caramanna

At Universal, most holiday activities are included in standard admission.

There are fun holiday-themed shows in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Carly Caramanna

Disney’s best holiday shows require a separate ticket.

Jollywood Nights has holiday-themed shows at Hollywood Studios. Carly Caramanna

On the other hand, Universal’s top-notch shows are included.

The Grinch-themed holiday show is a blast. Carly Caramanna

Some of Disney’s holiday characters are only at the ticketed events.

Minnie Mouse has a special holiday outfit. Carly Caramanna

Universal’s holiday characters can be found during daytime admission.

Earl the Squirrel is a holiday icon at Universal.Carly Caramanna

Disney’s famous holiday parade is part of the add-on ticket.

"Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade" only happens at the ticketed Christmas party.Carly Caramanna

Universal’s fan-favorite parade is part of regular admission.

Universal brings the famous Macy's balloons to Florida. Carly Caramanna

I love Disney’s holiday food festival, but the crowds are large and the portions can be small.

Disney World offers all kinds of holiday treats. Carly Caramanna

Universal’s holiday food festival is a new favorite.

Universal hasn't been doing a holiday food festival for as long as Disney World. Carly Caramanna

Universal has become my family's favorite park to visit for the holidays.

I look forward to celebrating the holidays at Universal every year. Carly Caramanna

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