Universal Orlando Unveils Halloween Horror Nights 35: 2026 Dates, Tickets, and First Haunted House
Halloween enthusiasts don’t have to wait until October to start their countdown. Universal Orlando has officially released the details for Halloween Horror Nights 35, confirming that the world’s premier Halloween event is returning to Universal Studios Florida with a massive lineup of scares. From the return of iconic villains to new premium ticket options, the 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious yet.
Event Dates and Schedule
For the second year in a row, Halloween Horror Nights will kick off in August. The event runs on select nights from August 28 through November 1, 2026.
If you’re planning your visit, keep these key dates in mind:
- Opening Weekend: August 28, 29, and 30. Opening night is historically one of the first to sell out.
- September & October: The event runs Wednesday through Sunday throughout both months.
- Season Finale: November 1 marks the final night of the 2026 season.
Ticket Pricing and Premium Add-Ons
Single-night tickets for HHN 35 range from $88 to $130, with pricing varying based on the date. For those looking to wrap up the season on November 1, tickets are priced at $100 per person.
To enhance the experience, Universal is offering several high-tier add-ons and tours:
- Express Passes: These start at $170 and can reach $280 on peak nights to reduce wait times.
- RIP Tour: A luxury experience starting at $400.
- Unmasking the Horror Tours: A behind-the-scenes glance at the event. A 3-house tour starts at $99 (beginning August 21), and a 6-house tour starts at $199 (beginning August 28) and includes lunch.
New for 2026: Premium Scream Night and Early Access
Universal has introduced two new ticketing options for the 2026 season to provide more flexibility and exclusivity:
Premium Scream Night: Priced at $399 per person, this limited-capacity event is available on August 27 or October 19. It features shorter wait times and “All-You-Care-to-Enjoy” select food and beverage options.
Scream Early Ticket: For $70, guests can gain access to three haunted houses starting at 2 PM, along with daytime admission to Universal Studios Florida. Note that a separate Halloween Horror Nights 35 admission ticket is still required to stay for the main event.
The Horror: Icons and Haunted Houses
Universal has confirmed that Jack the Clown and Dr. Oddfellow will return as this year’s icons. While the full list of 10 haunted houses hasn’t been fully revealed, the first house has been officially announced: Jack & Oddfellow: Chaos and Control.
Key Takeaways for HHN 35
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Window | August 28 – November 1, 2026 |
| Ticket Range | $88 – $130 |
| First House | Jack & Oddfellow: Chaos & Control |
| Total Houses | 10 |
| Premium Option | Premium Scream Night ($399) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate ticket for HHN?
Yes. Unlike some other resort events, Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed event and is not included with regular theme park admission.
When do the behind-the-scenes tours start?
The “Unmasking the Horror” 3-house tour begins on August 21, while the 6-house tour begins on August 28.
Which nights are the least crowded?
According to event trends, weekdays (Wednesday and Thursday) typically notice fewer crowds than the weekend dates.
As Universal Orlando continues to drop more details about the remaining nine haunted houses and sinister scare zones, fans should keep a close eye on ticket availability for those high-demand opening weekend dates.
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