Universal Orlando Resort’s holiday mascot, Earl the Squirrel, will make his giant balloon debut in New York City. Universal announced his appearance in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for November 26.
The balloon will stand 30.4 feet tall and measure 14.5 feet wide. He’ll carry a blue Christmas light. His signature winter cap completes the design.
- Orlando debut: Early December, in Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida.
- Holiday season: November 14, 2026, through January 3, 2027, at Universal Orlando.
- Park access: Universal Orlando’s holiday experiences are included with regular theme park admission.
Why Earl carries a blue light
Earl the Squirrel began with a real squirrel nearly two decades ago. Universal Orlando’s Entertainment team discovered it among the branches of the Christmas tree at Universal Studios Florida.
The squirrel had a particular fondness for blue Christmas lights. It would steal strands and carry them back to its nest.
Universal has honored that story by hiding a lifelike squirrel within the tree for guests to discover. Universal also created merchandise inspired by Earl and introduced him as a walkaround character for meet and greets.
Meet Earl and visit the Holiday Tribute Store
This season’s newly themed Holiday Tribute Store at Universal Studios Florida will celebrate Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade history. Its themed environments will celebrate iconic parade moments from the past century, alongside exclusive merchandise, collectibles and seasonal surprises.
Earl’s all-new merchandise will include apparel, accessories and collectibles honoring the character. The store will also carry items themed to Universal Orlando’s holiday experiences.
During the resort’s holiday celebration, guests can meet Earl daily at Universal Studios Florida. He’ll also appear on weekends at Universal CityWalk.
Universal Studios Florida will serve Earl’s Hazelnut Dot Cake, too. The chocolate cake comes with hazelnut spread, toasted hazelnuts, and festive red and green dot sprinkles.
Guests can also book the Universal Holiday Tour, which is on sale now. The guided experience lasts two and a half hours. It requires two-park, park-to-park access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure.
For a holiday visit, Universal’s special 3-Day Ticket starts at $99 per day, plus tax. It includes access to Universal Epic Universe, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.
Source: Universal Orlando Resort
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