While autumn doesn't technically kick off until Sept 21st, the details of the scariest season of the year at the Universal Orlando Resort are starting to emerge! We're talking about the return of Halloween Horror Nights, taking place August 30th - November 3rd.
What is Halloween Horror Nights?
Well, the name says it all. HHN is a special ticketed nighttime event (taking place inside Universal Studios) dedicated to all things that go bump in the night. If you are picturing something similar to the Halloween parties that take place down the street, this is not it! Here, you won't meet the Simpsons dressed as zombies... although that would be pretty cool to see. At HHN you can expect to come face to face with some of your worst nightmares. Highly recommended for guests 13 and up, you can look forward to experiencing up to 10 "haunted houses," five scare zones, live entertainment, and a partridge in a pear tree. Ok, maybe not that last one, ha! This year marks the 33rd season of HHN and Universal Orlando is ready to make this the scariest year yet. So, let's take a look at what you can experience this year.
(Not a horror fan and just going for the food and merch? ...Or maybe tagging along with a friend who needs a hand to hold? Scroll down to see what you can snag during your HHN experience. Plus, tips to "survive" the night!)
Photos and summaries courtesy of Universal Orlando.
Haunted Houses (The Ones Announced So Far)
Pick your poison...
Here's a short snippet to sum up each of the houses we now have some information on:
1. Major Sweets Candy Factory
You’ve been invited to chaperone a field trip to a candy factory. But this sweet tour is about to turn sour when free samples transform the kids into candy-coated killers wielding sharpened candies.
2. The Museum: Deadly Exhibit
You’re going to check out The Rotting Stone, the local folklore museum’s infamous new exhibit. An evil spirit escapes from within, possessing the other displays and decaying everything in its path.
3. Goblin's Feast
Welcome to the Goblin’s Feast Tavern and visit the goblin village where a lavish feast is being prepared for goblins, orcs, hobgoblins and witches. And you’re the main course.
4. Slaughter Sinema 2
If you’re dying for a b-movie horror marathon, head to the Carey Drive-in. Scream through scenes from creature features, grindhouse gore, spaghetti westerns and more.
5. Triplets of Terror
You're invited to the Barmy triplets' birthday bash. But beware, they celebrate by recreating their family's murders. Prepare for a gory gathering.
6. Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America
¡Ten cuídado! With La Muerte as your guide, you’ll be asking for piedad from these three terrifying monsters: the blood-sucking Tlahuelpuchi, owl-faced witch La Lechuza and bone-ripping El Silbón.
More information on the remaining houses will be added here as it is released.
Scare Zones
They say, "it's not about the destination, but the journey" and that perfectly sums up how you'll feel about the Scare Zones at this year's HHN. Making the trip to your next house means making a trip through one of the sinister scare zones set up to make sure the blood stays pumping all night long.
This year's Scare Zones are sure to be extra spooky! So, keep checking back for this information!
That's not all...
We are so excited for this new offering! Just announced by Universal Orlando, get ready for a PREMIUM SCREAM NIGHT. Everything you already love about Halloween Horror Nights but with limited capacity, shorter wait times, haunted house entry staggered by group, a selection of all-you-care-to-enjoy food and more. Details and tickets for this special one-night event drop on June 6th. So, make sure to follow the Magical Moments Vacations Facebook Page for more info, if you want the PREMIUM experience.
And we can't forget to give you a sneak peek at the merch coming to this year's event! Take a look! If this is a preview of the vibe HHN is putting out this year, sign us up!
Tips for Surviving Halloween Horror Nights
Universal said it themselves. #NeverGoAlone. Having someone to push into the path of danger, so that you can run away is always smart. We're kidding... sort of.
Know your limits. This isn't the $5 Haunted Houses you visit down the road. These are much more realistic. If you feel like you're in trouble, just let one of the UOR team members who are standing guard inside know and they will help you get to the nearest exit. Again, a reminder, this event is recommended for 13 years and older. This wasn't rated the Best Halloween Event for 13 years for no reason!
It's ok to just spend the evening taking advantage of the short ride times. That's right! There will be ride attractions open during HHN events. Check your app to see which ones you can hop on when you need a breather.
Safety first! Remember that the scary person walking near you with a rubber hatchet is a Universal Team Member. While their job for the evening is to give you alllll the goosebumps, underneath that makeup is a normal person who would like to go home without bumps and bruises. So, don't touch the cast. They won't touch you.
Arrive Ready with the App downloaded on your phone. Download the official Universal Orlando app for free before you arrive. This will help you save time and energy planning out your night. Plus, you can check out wait times, look at interactive maps, and take advantage of the app's contact-free features and more. With the app you know exactly where you want to scream.
We could keep going, but you get the picture! Halloween Horror Nights 33 is ready to help you shriek with terrific terror and make memories you'll be talking about for years! Tickets are already on sale! So, if you're ready to face your fears, contact your MMV agent and they will help you plan a haunting good time and make sure you're ready for the fear... we mean fun!
