Frisco families have a new holiday destination. Starting Nov. 20 and running through Jan. 3, 2027, Universal Kids Resort will debut its first‑ever seasonal event, “Holidays at Universal Kids Resort.” The week‑long celebration transforms the park into a winter wonderland designed especially for younger guests.
Winter Wonderland and Santa
The centerpiece of the festivities is the Universal Kids Resort Theater, which will be turned into an interactive winter forest illuminated by glowing snow lights. Children can wander the enchanted setting before meeting Santa Claus, who will be on hand for photos through Dec. 24. A festive resort sleight offers an additional photo backdrop for families.
Letters to Santa and Holiday Activities
Kids can take part in the holiday spirit by writing Letters to Santa. Play Ambassadors will help young visitors pen their wishes and place them in a special holiday mailbox surrounded by seasonal décor.
Character Appearances and Tree Lighting
Each evening at dusk, Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse will join families on the Isle of Curiosity for a 40‑foot Christmas tree lighting ceremony, followed by a dance party featuring the show’s “Meowy Christmas” song. Beloved characters such as the Penguins of Madagascar, SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star and Gabby will appear in holiday‑themed costumes for meet‑and‑greets, giving children extra photo opportunities.
Seasonal Merchandise
Shoppers can browse new holiday collections featuring Illumination and DreamWorks Animation characters. The Merry Minions line offers apparel, accessories and collectibles, including a headband, spirit jersey and crossbody bag. Fans of Shrek can enjoy the Shrek the Halls collection, which includes holiday‑themed T‑shirts, an ogre‑ear headband, decorations and treats.
Festive Food and Drinks
Universal Kids Resort adds several seasonal menu items across its dining locations. At Curiosity Café inside the resort hotel, guests can try Holiday Pizza, a flatbread inspired by traditional turkey dinner flavors. DreamWorks’ TrollsFest will serve Poppy’s Holiday Poutine, featuring fries topped with roasted turkey, melted cheese and gravy. In Shrek’s Swamp, Swamp Snacks offers Gingy, a gingerbread‑man cookie, and a Holiday Shrekzel served with powdered sugar and peppermint chocolate dipping sauce. For a warm beverage, Comidas y Leche in the Puss in Boots area serves Purrfect Hot Chocolate topped with whipped cream and cinnamon sugar.
Practical Details
The holiday celebration runs from Nov. 20, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027. More information, including ticket pricing and daily schedules, is available at universalkidsresort.com. Parents are encouraged to plan ahead, as the event is expected to draw large crowds, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
Universal Kids Resort’s holiday debut offers Frisco residents a family‑friendly alternative to traditional mall shopping and downtown light displays, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a hub for wholesome, community‑focused entertainment.
Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.
