Universal Studios Hollywood’s Grad Bash

Updated April 8, 2026

My son attended Grad Bash at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2024.

It’s similar to Disneyland’s Grad Nite.

Here’s what you can expect as a grad along with tips on how to get the most out of your day whether you’re attending or not.

Basic Scoop

Grad Bash is an event that honors high school graduates in Southern California.

Schools contract with the parks to bring large groups of kids in to celebrate their achievements with lower wait times on rides, DJs on each level, entertainment, characters, merchandise and more.

It’s a really special night for kids and I’m so glad my son attended. I asked if he would recommend it and he said he would. He had a really good time.

.

2026 Grad Bash Dates

May 20

May 21

May 27

May 28

May 29

June 4

June 5

What Grads Receive with their Ticket

This $165 (2024 pricing) ticket includes their ticket to the park, a lanyard, a meal voucher, and bus transportation from and to San Diego.

Lanyards and meal vouchers were handed out to students as they left the bus to enter the park.

The meal voucher has some limits, but provides grads with the option to buy sandwiches, salads, burgers, etc. You can also use your voucher for ice cream. But, Starbucks, Panda Express and similar places are off limits.

A bus transported our grad to and from. He entered the park at 4:30pm and we picked him up at 4:30am the next day. Wild time!

Average Wait Times for Grads

Average wait times for attractions is 30-40 minutes during Grad Bash. The max my son saw was 60 minutes.

Around 1:15am, before they board the bus to head home, the most popular rides were only 15 minutes.

Your Best Strategy if You’re Not a Grad and in the Park

Arrive early. Around 8:00pm, cast members start asking for proof of wrist bands. If you don’t have one, you’ll have to leave the park.

Avoid Grad Bash dates all together if you can, but if not, be sure to get there early enough to do lots of rides before the parks fill up.

Grad Bash vs Grad Nite

Disneyland’s Grad Nites tallied 15 compared to 6 total for Grad Bash at Universal in 2024.

In 2025, Disneyland is hosting 14 nights and Universal, 7.

Here’s all about Disneyland’s event.

My son’s account of his experience at Grad Bash makes me believe they’re more laid back compared to Disneyland’s celebration.

Also, Disneyland’s event does not include food.

The events are similar in nature for the most part, however. Here’s a comparison from another site.

Notes

• Contact your school if you’re interested in attending. These nights are contracted and arranged between the school and park.
• Here’s more info from Universal Studios along with details about Junior Grad Bash, which is for 8th graders.
• Food and drinks were not allowed on the bus, so my son purchased what he wanted there. He recommends bringing a portable charger. He also noted that it was crowded at departure time, so look for the TV at the bus pick up to find your school. There’s a helpful map.

Special thanks to my son, Jack, for providing a lot of the information in this post.