Universal Studios Hollywood has launched Halloween Horror Nights, showcasing haunted houses based on 'Sinners' and 'Stranger Things 5.'
Halloween has officially begun at Universal Studios Hollywood, where the highly anticipated Halloween Horror Nights opened to guests on September 4, 2026. Featuring a thrilling lineup of haunting experiences, this year's event showcases some of the season's most iconic horror properties, including a haunted house themed around Netflix’s Stranger Things 5 and a new chilling attraction based on the film Sinners.
According to Variety, visitors were quick to flood the park, eager to brave the newly designed haunted houses. Among the featured attractions, the Stranger Things 5 house transports guests into the terrifying Upside Down, where well-known characters and menacing creatures await. Meanwhile, the Sinners house recreates unforgettable scenes from the critically acclaimed Oscar-winning film, pulling attendees into the chaotic environment of Club Juke.
Upon opening, the haunted house Sinners saw wait times soar to 60 minutes, emphasizing its popularity. The Hellraiser attraction also debuted this year, with guests experiencing a 50-minute wait, while fan-favorites like Killer Klowns From Outer Space and Evil Dead Burn had shorter 30-minute waits.
In addition to the haunted houses, Universal Studios has enhanced the overall experience with roaming characters from this year’s featured horrors. One notable presence is Nikki, a blood-soaked character from Obsession, who engages guests with her eerie charm. Nikki roams throughout the park, creating a spontaneous and immersive experience for attendees.
One of the most crowded areas was in the Lower Lot, where fans gathered at Ozzy’s Bar, which served themed drinks and dishes inspired by music legend Ozzy Osbourne. The bar featured a special menu including drinks like the Blizzard of Ozz-arita and dishes such as a naan taco titled Bark at the Naan. The companion haunted house, Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness, delighted thrill-seekers with jump scares and themed decor referencing his iconic music.
The Stranger Things 5 haunted house captivatingly depicts scenes such as Castle Byers and the blood-soaked kitchen where Karen Wheeler faces a Demogorgon. Similarly, the Sinners experience allows guests to witness chaotic performances by characters from the film, further tying the essence of horror into the event.
As guests grappled with long wait times, they enjoyed live performances and interactions throughout the park. The firsthand encounters with characters and the immersive environments further amplified the horror experience for attendees, making this year’s Halloween Horror Nights a must-visit attraction.
The launch of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood not only marks the arrival of the spooky season but also highlights the ongoing collaboration between the park and popular film and TV franchises. With a mix of returning favorites and fresh themes, this event aims to attract horror enthusiasts and families seeking thrilling adventures.
The event is likely to generate significant foot traffic in the coming weeks, ensuring that Universal continues to be a destination for seasonal celebrations. For fans of the horror genre, this year's offerings present an exciting opportunity to step into their favorite scares firsthand, demonstrating the park's commitment to providing unforgettable experiences.
For those interested in other haunting experiences, check out our coverage of PS5 Exclusive Horror Game 'Hunter's Moon' Set for October Release and Practical Magic 2 Merchandise Launches with Major Collaborations.
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