Universal Orlando Resort announces theme, iconic ringmasters, and dates for Halloween Horror Nights 35
- Carla Davis
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Horror fans in Florida know that Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort is a beloved spooky holiday rite of passage. 2026 is going to be a big year for Halloween Horror Nights in Orlando, because it’s the 35th anniversary of “the world’s premier Halloween event.”
In 1991, Universal Studios Fright Nights was held in Orlando for the first time, as a 3-night event. My, how things have changed since then! In 2026, HHN will be open to brave guests for over two months (on select nights).
This year’s event theme is the Infernal Carnival of Nightmares, and die hard returnees will be able to see some very familiar (and very frightening) faces. Returning original characters Jack the Clown and Dr. Oddfellow will be the “ringmasters.”
Universal Orlando will be transformed into a creepy carnival with all new haunted houses, scare zones, and action-packed entertainment. For the first time, two of the most iconic characters in the history of HHN will join forces to terrify visitors.
The frightening Halloween Horror Nights fun begins on August 28 (select nights).
Guests will be able to step into the fog from August 28 through November 1 this year, and tickets will be available to purchase very soon. Based on the last few years, it is expected that we will again be able to choose from anything from standard event tickets to premium tours and multi-night passes.
On top of the date and theme announcements, Universal Orlando also made the first original haunted house announcement: In Jack & Oddfellow: Chaos & Control, the long‑standing conflict between Jack and Oddfellow comes to life for the first time as guests journey into the unsettling origins of the two adversaries’ undying rivalry. As chaos and control collide, the two Icons battle for dominance until they ultimately discover that the only way to obtain the power they seek is not to fight each other - but to join forces instead.”
But if you are too excited to wait until August 28 to experience all things Halloween Horror Nights, there are a few 2026 merchandise items available for purchase right now. To see and purchase them, you can jump on the merch website.
Newbies to Halloween Horror Nights can get more information at UniversalOrlando.com/HHN. And please keep your eyes on The Horror Lounge, because we will be covering HHN news (including haunted house and scare zone themes, and merchandise, food and ticket options) as soon as we get it in our hot little hands!