ORLANDO — Christmas will be extra magical this year, thanks to a new holiday experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Universal Orlando Resort has announced the new experience as part of its destination-wide holiday celebration, which also includes a brand new parade featuring Macys. The 2017 Holidays celebration will run for more dates than ever before, from Nov. 18, 2017 to Jan. 6, 2018.

This November, Hogwarts castle will magically transform right before guests’ eyes, with state-of-the-art projection mapping and special effects wrapping the iconic castle. Festive décor will line the streets of both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, while each storefront will be decked out with uniquely themed decorations.

Meanwhile, Universals Holidays Parade feature Macys will take place in Universal Studios Florida and feature detailed floats and balloons and beloved characters like the Minions from ‘Despicable Me’, popular DreamWorks characters from ‘Madagascar’ and ‘Shrek’ and even Santa Claus himself. Universal is partnering with Macys, the global leader in balloon entertainment, to bring this new parade experience to life.

To make the most of their holiday stay, clients can book the ‘Splash, Stay and Play’ vacation package, priced from US$165 per adult, per night (tax inclusive). Package includes four-night hotel accommodations at Universals Cabana Bay Beach Resort and a four-day park ticket that includes admission to all three Universal theme parks.

For more information go to UniversalTravelAgents.com.