Universal Studios welcomed 2026 with fireworks at midnight, despite the rain
Universal Studios Hollywood held its New Year’s EVE celebration, the name of their popular event that ends each year with fireworks, specialty food and thrill rides for the crowds. Despite the rain, hundreds of people turned out to see the celebration at the Harry Potter Castle.
Hundreds of people turn out in the rain to see Universal Studio New Year’s Eve celebration at the Harry Potter Castle Thursday, Universal City Jan 1, 2026. The annual, park-wide event held December 31st featuring DJs, themed party zones, fireworks at midnight, access to rides, and extended hours, allowing guests to party from day into the new year.
(Photo by Gene Blevins, Contributing Photographer)
Hundreds of people turn out in the rain to see Universal Studio New Year’s Eve celebration at the Harry Potter Castle Thursday, Universal City Jan 1, 2026. The annual, park-wide event held December 31st featuring DJs, themed party zones, fireworks at midnight, access to rides, and extended hours, allowing guests to party from day into the new year.
(Photo by Gene Blevins, Contributing Photographer)
Hundreds of people turn out in the rain to see Universal Studio New Year’s Eve celebration at the Harry Potter Castle Thursday, Universal City Jan 1, 2026. The annual, park-wide event held December 31st featuring DJs, themed party zones, fireworks at midnight, access to rides, and extended hours, allowing guests to party from day into the new year.
(Photo by Gene Blevins, Contributing Photographer)
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Hundreds of people turn out in the rain to see Universal Studio New Year’s Eve celebration at the Harry Potter Castle Thursday, Universal City Jan 1, 2026. The annual, park-wide event held December 31st featuring DJs, themed party zones, fireworks at midnight, access to rides, and extended hours, allowing guests to party from day into the new year.
(Photo by Gene Blevins, Contributing Photographer)
In a statement from Universal Studios, the crowd had a great evening, thanks to “heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions. Then kept the thrills going with multiple party areas, photo ops, a midnight firework countdown celebration and more.”
EVE featured DJs, themed party zones, access to rides and extended hours, and allowing guests to “party from day into the new year.”