Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates “Grinchmas” and Offers Free Concerts at Universal CityWalk
A heart-warming Grinchmas celebration took place at Universal Studios Hollywood with Florence Henderson making a special appearance. The classic TV star received the “Who-Manitarian Award” from the Grinch himself and his faithful dog Max.
The “Who-bilaton” ceremony for Henderson was held in the new Who-ville holiday plaza at the Universal tour center. Henderson was delighted to be greeted by the Mayor of Who-Ville and a crowd from L.A. Family Housing, the beneficiary organization of Universal Studios Hollywood’s charitable Discover a Star Foundation. It was a fun event that captured the spirit of the holiday season.
The “Who-Manitarian Award” honored Henderson for her long-time commitment to the City of Hope research and treatment hospital for cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening diseases. She said, “Helping children by supporting the City of Hope is one of the most important things I do. It is a cause dear to my heart.” In addition to being the beloved matriarch of The Brady Bunch, the vibrant 79-year-old is also the host of The Florence Henderson Show on RLTV, a network dedicated to seniors’ needs and lifestyle.
The presentation launched the “Who-bilations” at Universal from now until the end of the year. There are lots of photo opportunities at the elaborate new grand Universal Plaza, at the heart of the theme park. The centerpiece is the whimsical and spiraling 60-foot “Grinchmas” tree. And aboard the behind-the-scenes Studio Tour, fans of the film Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas can enjoy an up-close view of the original Who-ville film set, with performances by a Who’s Who of Who-ville reenacting memorable scenes and songs from the blockbuster Universal film.
Another event tied into to Universal’s holiday festivities was the debut of the Holiday Tree Lighting Spectacular at Universal CityWalk’s “5 Towers” plaza. The event was launched with singer Tamar Braxton giving a concert performing songs from her #1 debuting album Love and War and new holiday album Winter Loversland.
Santa Claus and children from L.A. Family Housing joined Tamar in the tree lighting ceremony. The star of WE-tv’s Braxton Family Values and Tamar & Vince also held a meet and greet with her fans and signed CDs.
Throughout CityWalk’s holiday festivities, from now until Dec. 31, “5 Towers” will radiate with free concerts from an energetic mix of top musical acts. Vocalists from The Voice, American Idol, and The Sing Off will be featured on Dec. 14. Gospel singers Deitrick Haddon and Kierra Sheard will perform on Dec. 15. The indie rock band We Are Scientists will take the stage on Dec. 21. Mariachi Divas, a Grammy-winning Latin female group, will make a special appearance with the Ballet Folklorico Resurrection on Dec. 22. Concerts will start at 7 p.m. on Saturdays and 6 p.m. on Sundays. And there will be an eclectic array of emerging street performers to enjoy at various times.
Plus Santa’s Snow Zone will glimmer with an hourly snowfall, where guests can take photos with Santa aboard his giant sleigh parked right in the middle of CityWalk for all to enjoy. Throughout the nightlife complex there’s always dining, shopping, clubs, mechanical bull-riding at the Saddle Ranch, iFly indoor skydiving, and the CityWalk Cinemas to add excitement to your holidays.