Universal Orlando News — Week of November 30, 2019

Everyone survive Thanksgiving? This week we cover construction at Loews Portofino Bay Resort, Jake’s Beer Dinner returns, cold weather comes to Orlando, and more inside our weekly news roundup for Universal Orlando.

Loews Portofino Bay Resort Construction

Universal and Loews began quietly updating the room and guests areas around the Portofino Bay Resort recently. This means construction crews could be working on guest rooms or public areas close to your rooms. TouringPlans forums users report that construction is limited to the late morning to early afternoon to avoid disrupting guest’s stays. At this time no resort amenities such as pools, restaurants, or lobby are affected.

To avoid locations with construction call Loews Portofino Bay, (407) 503-1000, within a week of your visit.

Jake’s Beer Dinner

Royal Pacific Resort welcomes 3 Daughters Brewing of St Petersburgh, FL, as the latest brewery featured at Jake’s Beer Dinner. Tickets include beer, five course dinner with pairings, and free self parking. Tickets are on sale now for $55 per person plus tax.

Weekly Crowd Levels

Detailed crowd level information can be found here.

Weather

Winter weather patterns routinely come as far south as Orlando, so pack for the weather. Volcano Bay could experience a delayed opening or closure when highs are in the 60s and lows in the 40s. Refer to Universal Orlando’s Twitter account for the latest operating information.

Operating Hours & Early Park Admission

CityWalk is open until 2:00 a.m. daily, with free self parking starting after 6:00 p.m.

Admission

Two-day, two-park tickets are $284.99 per adult and $274.99 per child (plus tax).

Volcano Bay tickets are at Anytime pricing at $80 per adult and $75 per child (plus tax).

Showtimes and Refurbishments

Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration Showtimes

• No Shows

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s

• November 30 – December 3: 5:30 p.m.
• December 4: 5:15 p.m.
• December 5 – 6: 5:30 p.m.

Manheim Steamroller

• November 30: 7:00 p.m.
• December 1: 7:00 p.m.

The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle

• November 30 – December 6: Ongoing from dusk till park close

Grinchmas

• November 30: 10:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m., 1:45 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m.
• December 1 – 6: 11:30 a.m.; 12:30 p.m.; 1:30 p.m.; 3:45 p.m.; 4:45 p.m.; 5:45 p.m.

Complete showtimes are available on Universal Orlando’s website.

Refurbishments & Closures

• Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges: September 3 – December 22
• Me Ship, The Olive: September 3 – December 22

Events & Festivals

Deck the halls at Universal Orlando Resort November 16, 2019 – January 5, 2020 with their annual Holiday festivities. Join The Grinch in Seuss Landing and see a live performance of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, celebrate in Universal Studios Florida with Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, or visit the Wizarding World decked out in Christmas decorations.

See you next week, and make sure to leave a question below for the Mail Bag!