Disney, Universal parks spreading holiday cheer with tree scavenger hunts
The basics
In lieu of its generally crowded Christmas Tree Trail, Disney Springs instead offers a Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth this year throughout the dining, shopping and entertainment complex. Find maps at select shops, the Disney Springs Welcome Center and Disney’s Photo
Pass Studio. Guests who match each sticker with the correct tree location receive a prize. The back of the map also includes a variety of discounts available at Disney Springs restaurants and stores.
At Universal, the Holiday Tree Hunt returns, but it’s not free this year. Trees are scattered throughout Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk Orlando. Participants who get their brochures stamped at each tree spot will earn a free gift.
The trees
The Christmas Tree Stroll 2020 features 12 trees themed for Disney characters, movies and parks.
There are fewer trees this year than in previous iterations of the Christmas Tree Trail, but this altered version has the bonuses of social distancing and healthy steps, as trees are spread from one end of the complex to the other, rather than a sectioned-off area.
Discover 16 trees this year with Universal’s Holiday Tree Hunt. Some made appearances last year, others are new or relocated.
Personal favorites: The returning The Haunted Mansion tree that includes a life-size bride Constance sitting in the decoration and tombstones as well as “The Lion King” tree, complete with Simba atop, both at Disney Springs. At Universal, the dino-mite “Jurassic Park” tree with dinosaur ornaments and flashing perimeter fence warning lights stands out, as does “The Mummy,” a white tree that dazzles with shiny gold accents but also terrifies with snakes and pieces of decaying corpses.
Assorted notes
At Disney Springs, one of my stickers didn’t match up: A Baloo from
“The Jungle Book” sticker was left, and at the only remaining location, stood a “Fantasia” tree. Regardless, I was able to secure my prize. Also, on my visit to Disney Springs, there was enhanced security with bag checks, so be prepared.
In order to access the entirety of Universal’s tree hunt, guests will need valid park admission or an annual pass, unlike Disney Springs, where entry is free. But in addition to this activity, Universal has many holiday offerings, including the Holiday Tribute Store complete with sweet treats, photo ops and holiday merch; Universal’s Holiday Experience that includes up-close glimpses of
Macy’s Balloons, social-distanced photo ops with Santa Claus and falling snow; merry meetings from a distance with characters; a new Holiday Treat Trail; and more.
Cost/prize
Spoilers ahead on prizes. The Disney Springs
Tree Stroll is free, and once you’ve completed the activity, head to Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories, the House of Blues gift shop, Disney
Springs Welcome Center or Disney’s PhotoPass Studio to receive a complimentary button.
Universal’s Holiday Tree Hunt costs $10 plus tax and yields a special holiday ornament. Once the brochure has been stamped at each location, go to Park Plaza Holiday Shop at Universal Studios, Port of Entry Christmas Shoppe at Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios Store at CityWalk to claim your
prize.
More info
The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll is available through Dec. 30, and Universal’s Holiday Tree Hunt (plus other seasonal activities) can be enjoyed through Jan. 3.
For more information about the tree stroll and other holiday offerings at Disney Springs, go to disneysprings.com/holidays. For
more on how Universal is spreading holiday cheer, go to universalorlando.com/ holidays.
Email me at kchristiansen@orlandosentinel. com. Want more theme park news? Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters or the Theme Park Rangers podcast at orlandosentinel. com/travel/attractions/ theme-park-rangers-podcast.