A Teen’s Guide to Halloween Horror Nights

Halloween Horror Nights has returned to Universal Orlando Resort, and I recently had the chance to experience the fun! Now in its 27th year, the event is no stranger to an unbeatable scare-factor.

This month, when you’re carving pumpkins and picking out the perfect Halloween costume, think about celebrating Halloween the ultimate way… by visiting Halloween Horror Nights, of course!

Halloween Horror Nights is one of Universal Orlando’s largest events, drawing tens of thousands of courageous and daring visitors every fall. This year offers 9 themed houses, 5 scare zones, and 2 live shows, and I managed to survive it all—but not without some serious chills and thrills.

Although I’m startled easily, even a scaredy cat like me can enjoy and appreciate the thoughtful storytellers. During Halloween Horror Night’s opening night media party, I was informed that planning for this year’s event started 14 months ago. From the frightening sets to the unsettling scareactors, it’s clear that meticulous details go into every attraction.

“We’ve got a great slate of properties and original storytelling this year, everybody is going to get something out of the event,” Patrick Braillard, Creative Development Show Director, said regarding Halloween Horror Nights. Braillard supervised the overall creative concept and said he looked forward to seeing the event’s growth. “We’re in our 27^th year and we’re only going to grow from here.”

As I walked (or more specifically, was chased) through the theme park, I was constantly asking myself, “What happened to the tranquil waterfront I was eating cotton candy at 3 hours ago?” Universal Orlando transforms the park, and it’s an immersive experience like no other. All I could see were zombies, aliens, and chainsaw-wielding clowns. It was the perfect way to get into the spooky spirit of Halloween!

While the scare zones and live shows are extremely entertaining, I believe the most significant attractions at Halloween Horror Nights are the walk-through haunted houses. There are 9 houses, 5 of which are based on some of the biggest horror movie and TV franchises.

The remaining 4 houses are original concepts designed by Universal’s Creative team: Dead Waters, The Fallen, Scarecrow: The Reaping, and The Hive.

Every year I look forward to Universal’s innovative works because unlike a franchise I’m familiar with, I have absolutely no idea what to expect! My heart stopped a few times while touring these houses, and I practically cut off circulation in my sister’s hand from squeezing it too hard (sorry Brenna!). It was a bonding experience like no other, and we both had a spooktacular time.

The content at Halloween Horror Nights is primarily PG-13, so I would recommend this event to teens who prefer the darker side of Halloween. If you’re frightened easily like me (scaredy cats unite!), you will definitely still enjoy Halloween Horror Nights, but be ready to leave your comfort zone. It’s all in good fun! Besides, if you need a breather from the heart-pounding thrills, select rides in Universal Studios Florida continue to operate throughout the night.

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is open now through November 4 on select nights so get your tickets now. Check out the hashtag #HHN27 on social media to follow along this Halloween season.

As they say at Halloween Horror Nights, the best nightmares never end…

WARNING: Event may be too intense for young children and is not recommended for children under the age of 13. No costumes or masks allowed.