Universal Studios officially cancels Halloween Horror Nights for 2020, but the event will return in 2021. In March, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus a pandemic, leaving countries around the world to take extra security precautions against the aggressive virus. In an attempt to prevent further COVID-19 outbreaks, Universal Studios shuttered all theme parks indefinitely. Following a series of extended closures, Universal Studios formulated plans to reopen its Orlando location last month, amid coronavirus concerns.
Home to iconic attractions, including Transformers: The Ride 3D, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Jurassic World - The Ride, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Universal Studios Orlando are well-known for the annual Halloween event, Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights. Introduced in 1991, Halloween Horror Nights enshrouds the entire theme park in Halloween festivities, including decorations, live entertainment, haunted houses, and actors in costume poised to scare unsuspecting guests. Halloween Horror Nights 2019 became the talk of the town when it was revealed the themes would center on Us, Ghostbusters, and Stranger Things. Last month, Disney World canceled Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Now, it appears Universal Studios is following suit in putting its popular fright fest on hold.
Today, Universal Studios revealed Halloween Horror Nights has officially been canceled for 2020. Expressing remorse, Universal stated that the theme park has made the “difficult decision” to postpone the event until 2021 and will remain focused on operating Orlando Florida “for daytime guests, using the enhanced health and safety measures already in place.” Patrons who already purchased tickets can use them for 2021, or get a refund.
Universal Studios continues to look forward despite the disappointing decision and revealed the creative forces behind the titular event will put great effort into hosting an amazing Halloween Horror Nights in 2021. As for Disney World in Florida, the theme park moved forward with reopening on July 11, despite a recent surge of coronavirus cases in Florida. As it stands, Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood - both in California - remain closed until further notice.
Indeed, Halloween Horror Nights have been a staple for Universal’s theme parks. However, opting to cancel the event in 2020 may be a wise decision, as Halloween Horror Nights consist of physically demanding activities, and it would be difficult to execute social distancing properly. Overall, It remains to be seen what Halloween festivities Universal Studios will create for daytime guests. Hopefully, Universal Studios can provide a memorable experience for guests this Halloween, and make Halloween Horror Nights of 2021 better than ever.
Source: Universal Studios