Earl the Squirrel. You might be familiar with his infamous blue light smuggling, witnessed his playful antics in and out of Christmas trees, or crossed paths with him during a meet-and-greet at the Universal theme parks. Now you can join him and the 22 billion tourists who flock to Orlando annually!
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned patron, join Earl the Squirrel as he explores the parks and rides at the Universal Orlando Resort. Earl’s world is an absolute blast and you’re invited to come along for the adventure!
Earl the Squirrel: The Story Behind the Furry Icon
So, how does a squirrel go from curious critter to holiday hero? In Earl’s case, you sneak into Universal Studios during the holiday season and find yourself captivated by the blue lights on a Christmas tree.
You indulge in a nibble, leaving the technical entertainment team puzzled about why the blue light section suddenly stopped working. You settle into the tree, occasionally borrowing strands of blue lights to spruce up your new digs. Before you know it, a legend is born!
What began as a delightful tale in 2015 has become a beloved annual tradition. Each year, a small plush squirrel sporting a red hat and a whimsical strand of blue lights dangling from its mouth is concealed within the park’s magnificent Christmas tree.
Now it’s become a popular scavenger hunt for those who visit Orlando. You can even purchase an Earl the Squirrel stuffed animal to hide in your own Christmas tree!
Where Can You Find Earl the Squirrel?
Earl’s location and appearance change each holiday season. Rest assured, he’s always popping up somewhere! You’ll discover a wonderful array of Earl the Squirrel sweets and souvenirs inside the Universal Studios’ Holiday Tribute Store. From cookies and candles to hats and hoodies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What’s even more delightful is that you can meet the furry icon in person at the various Universal theme parks. If you happen to come across a six-foot squirrel donning a festive green sweater, he would be thrilled to make your acquaintance. And if you share a fondness for acorns, even better!
Explore With Earl the Squirrel
If you’re looking for things to do in Orlando, look no further than the Theme Park Capital of the World! From friendship trips to family getaways, there’s plenty to experience.
And if you happen to be visiting during the festive season, your favorite holiday mascot will be there to welcome you! Discover the highlights of the three main Universal theme parks:
Universal Studios
Imagine your favorite movies or TV shows come to life, and you’ve got Universal Studios. From theme parks to production studios, it’s where cinematic magic is often created.
It also features rides, attractions, and live shows showcasing the best of pop culture and blockbuster entertainment. Rock out to a live performance of the Blues Brothers Show, race with the gang from the Fast & Furious, battle aliens with the Men in Black, save the world from Decepticons with the Transformers, and much more!
Islands of Adventure
If you’re looking for thrilling rides and magical fun, get ready to enter a world of fantastical creatures and iconic superheroes at Islands of Adventure!
Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Whether or not you’re a part of the Harry Potter fandom, you won’t be able to resist the spell of this theme park!
Walk the cobblestoned paths of Diagon Alley, home to many renowned establishments from the wizarding world. Dine at the Leaky Cauldron, take in the London sights aboard the Knight Bus, and embark on a thrilling multi-dimensional journey deep beneath Gringotts Bank.
Or, head to Hogsmeade and experience the thrill of Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Embark on a roller coaster ride through ancient ruins and discover Hogwarts Castle, Hagrid’s Hut, and all the magical creatures of the Forbidden Forest.
Jurassic Park
Experience the adrenaline rush of racing through lush jungles at 70 miles per hour, soaring above breathtaking landscapes, and outsmarting dangerous creatures on the Jurassic World VelociCoaster. Considered the tallest and fastest launch coaster in Florida, this thrilling ride offers a panoramic view that will transport you into another world!
Or, feel the rush of being chased by a fearsome predator on Jurassic World-The Ride. This water adventure will take you from a tranquil paradise cruise into the ominous Predator Cove, where the Indominus Rex has escaped her enclosure and is on the hunt for you!
For a more family-friendly experience, head to DinoPlay to check out the dig sites and dinosaur fossils. While you’re there, head to the Jurassic Park Theme Store and grab a bottle of Earl’s Acorn Soda!
Volcano Bay
From the 200-foot volcano of Krakatau, the hidden caves of the Kopiko Wai Winding River, and the adrenaline-pumping slide of the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, this isn’t your regular water park. Immerse yourself in the island paradise that’s Volcano Bay:
Rainforest Village
Experience the thrilling rapids of TeAwa the Fearless River, and take a plunge into the exhilarating 10-foot deep pool of the Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides. Or, unwind at the tranquil Puka Uli Lagoon, and embark on an exciting rafting adventure with the Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides.
Wave Village
Situated at the foot of Krakatau Volcano, visitors can experience the multi-directional wave pool of Waturi Beach, relax in the tranquil pools at The Reef, and browse through the unique selection of souvenirs at Krakatoa Katy’s Shop.
River Village
Explore the mysterious caves of Stargazer’s Cavern, then unwind in a cozy cabana in Runamukka Reef. Or, ride the waves on the raft slide of Honu ika Moana, and enjoy singing whales and spraying Maori fountains at Tot Tiki Reef.
The Volcano
Explore hidden wonders of the underwater sea caves on Punga racers, and pay homage to the Volcano God of Waturi. The thrill-seekers can feel the rush of the 125-foot drop of the Ko-okiri Body Plunge or experience the heart-racing twists of the Krakatau Aqua Coaster.
Universal CityWalk
Situated in the epicenter of the Universal theme parks, CityWalk is a 30-acre entertainment hub that offers a fantastic mix of dining, shopping, and nightlife to suit every taste and budget. During the holiday season, you can also catch Earl the Squirrel and his truck of festive Christmas trees!
Escape Rooms
Designed by the brilliant minds behind Orlando’s most cutting-edge entertainment, these escape rooms offer friends and family an unforgettable experience. The unique themes include A Knight to Escape, Sherlock Studies, Fright Before Your Eyes, and At Odds with The Gods.
Featuring endless hints, exclusive games, and extended escapes, it’s no surprise that it’s been voted Orlando’s number-one escape room for four consecutive years!
Hollywood Drive-in Golf
Experience an immersive miniature golf experience at Hollywood Drive-In Golf, which offers state-of-the-art courses that capture the nostalgic charm of the 1950s. Visitors can enjoy the golf course’s special effects during the day and late into the night.
Guests are welcomed into a classic drive-in theater box office, where they can choose between an 18-hole single feature or a 36-hole double feature. They have the option to play on two different courses named “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens” and “Invaders From Planet Putt.”
Guests navigate through elaborate scenes inspired by science fiction and vintage horror flicks. The attractions include a spooky cemetery, a giant spider, a massive alien robot, a gigantic spaceworm, and the eerie lab of a towering haunted house.
Enhance Your Experience
The key to making the most of your Universal Studios vacation is to purchase the Universal Orlando Express Pass. There are two main types of Express Passes, each providing different levels of entertainment and convenience.
The Universal Express Pass provides one-time express access to each attraction. You’ll skip the regular queues once per ride, which is a huge time-saver on busy days.
The Universal Express Unlimited Pass lets you enjoy unlimited access to all participating attractions. Visitors can bypass regular lines and ride their favorite rides over and over. Both passes are valid at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
Earl the Squirrel Sightings
Whether he’s peeking through a Christmas tree, or sharing his affinity for acorns on a meet-and-greet, the furry legend can be found in the following places:
- Earl-Lando
- Earl’s North of the Border
- Yeti: Campground Kills
- Dead Coconut Club
- Holiday Tribute Store
- Earl’s Tree Farm in Mistletoe Pines Village
- Earl the Squirrel’s Christmas Curios Museum and Emporium
If you find yourself in Orlando during Halloween Horror Nights, look out for a high-voltage sign of a squirrel, and a holiday video featuring a naughty Earl gnawing on an electrical cord in a haunted house!
Join Earl the Squirrel
No destination on Earth can compare to the iconic theme parks of an Orlando resort. With an abundance of options to choose from, you’ll never run out of unforgettable adventures. And what better way to experience all this than alongside Orlando’s beloved mascot?
Our passion is providing the ultimate Universal Studios vacation with the help of Earl the Squirrel. Experience endless fun and laughter on the trip of a lifetime! Visit us at Fun Park Go today!
