Universal just dropped a MAJOR Fan Fest Nights update, and the food alone might steal the show!
If you’ve been curious about what Universal’s newest after-hours event will actually feel like, we finally have answers. And it’s shaping up to be one of the most immersive fandom-driven experiences we’ve seen from Universal Studios Hollywood.
From anime-inspired dishes to nostalgic mashups like Scooby-Doo meeting classic monsters, Universal Fan Fest Nights is going all-in on storytelling through food, merchandise, and themed environments.
Here’s everything you need to know before this brand-new event kicks off.
A First Look at Universal Fan Fest Nights Food
Universal has confirmed that Fan Fest Nights will feature a fully original menu created specifically for the event, with dishes tied directly to its featured fandom experiences.
One of the most talked-about offerings is the crossover between Scooby-Doo and the Universal Monsters, located in the park’s Little Europe area.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Scooby Snacks
- The Super Shaggy Sandwich (a large, stacked club-style sandwich)
- A massive 22-inch Universal Monsters hot dog
Over in the anime-inspired world of One Piece, Universal is expanding its themed dining location with a full lineup of character-inspired dishes.
Menu highlights include:
- Luffy’s Meat on the Bone
- Sanji’s Seafood Fried Rice
- Franky’s Loco Moco Burger
- Brook’s Spicy Katsu
- Jinbe’s Watermelon Salad
- Pirate’s Bounty Funnel Cake
Desserts will also lean heavily into storytelling, featuring:
- Luffy’s Straw Hat mousse dome
- The returning Chopper Cupcake
This isn’t just themed food — it’s designed to feel like you’re eating inside the story!
There’s Also a Dining Pass (Here’s What It Includes)
If you’re planning to try multiple items (and trust me, you will), Universal is offering a Fan Fest Nights Dining Pass.
The pass includes:
- 2 entrée items
- 4 additional items (snacks, desserts, or beverages)
All bundled into a single price for the event, making it easier to sample across different fandom areas without constantly pulling out your wallet.
Exclusive Fan Fest Nights Merchandise
In addition to the food, Universal is rolling out a full lineup of event-exclusive merchandise collections tied to each experience.
Here’s what’s been confirmed so far:
- A One Piece Spirit Jersey and themed apparel
- Scooby-Doo x Universal Monsters crossover merchandise
- Colorful Yoshi-inspired apparel and accessories
- Merchandise themed to Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon
- Items inspired by the Wizarding World experience, including Forbidden Forest elements
Merchandise will be available:
- Inside the park during the event
- At Universal CityWalk Hollywood
- Online through Universal’s retail shop
If you’ve been to a Universal limited-time event before, you already know—these items won’t stick around long.
The Experience Starts at CityWalk
Fan Fest Nights doesn’t just begin at the gates.
Universal is extending the experience into CityWalk with limited-time themed food and beverage offerings at select locations, including:
- NBC Sports Grill & Brew (One Piece-inspired items)
- Voodoo Doughnut (Scooby-Doo-themed treats)
- The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen (Sailor Moon offerings)
- Vivo Italian Kitchen (Dungeons & Dragons-inspired menu items)
So yes — you can start your fandom journey before you even scan into the park.
Attractions Open During Fan Fest Nights
In addition to the themed experiences, several popular attractions will remain open during the event, including:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Flight of the Hippogriff
- Jurassic World — The Ride
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Revenge of the Mummy
- The Simpsons Ride
This gives guests the chance to mix immersive fandom experiences with some of Universal’s biggest rides — all in one night.
Event Dates and Details
Universal Fan Fest Nights will take place on select nights from April 23 through May 16, 2026, as a separately ticketed, after-hours event at Universal Studios Hollywood.
This limited-time format means availability will likely be tight, especially once more details and reviews start rolling in!
Why This Event Is a Big Deal
Fan Fest Nights isn’t just another seasonal overlay; it represents a shift in how Universal is approaching events.
Instead of focusing on one theme, this event blends multiple fandoms into a single, cohesive experience. That means more variety for guests, more immersive storytelling through food and merch, and a broader appeal across different fan communities.
It’s giving major convention energy…but inside a fully operational theme park.
Universal Fan Fest Nights is shaping up to be one of the most unique theme park events of 2026.
Between the story-driven food, exclusive merchandise, and multi-IP experiences, this event feels like a full celebration of fandom culture, and we’ve only seen the first wave of details.
If you’re a fan of immersive experiences, limited-time offerings, or just really good theme park food…this is one to watch.
Be sure to bookmark this page and check back often for the latest updates, strategy guides, and must-try lists.
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