Halloween Horror Nights 35 hasn’t even started yet, and Universal is already making history.
Universal Orlando Resort has announced a significant update to one of the most anticipated traditions leading up to Halloween Horror Nights. For the first time ever, Team Members will have two separate preview night options to experience Halloween Horror Nights 35 before the event officially opens to guests.
According to an internal communication shared with Team Members, the change comes after years of feedback from employees who said the annual preview event is one of the highlights of the HHN season but can make it difficult to experience everything in a single night.
This year, Team Members will be able to choose from:
- Monday, August 24, 2026
- Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Both preview events will take place from 7 PM to 1 AM.
Universal says the addition of a second preview night is designed to provide greater flexibility for Team Members, especially those working later shifts, while also helping reduce wait times and improve the overall event experience.
There are a few important details Team Members should keep in mind:
- Team Members may attend one preview night only
- Access will be managed through ETDS reservations
- Reservations will be available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Capacity is limited and reservations are expected to fill quickly
- The event is exclusive to Team Members only
- Guests will not be permitted to attend
- Entry will be through the front gate of Universal Studios Florida
- Stay and Scream will not be available during the preview events
Universal noted that additional information, including reservation dates and ETDS instructions, will be shared closer to the event.
Halloween Horror Nights 35 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated years in the event’s history, and this expanded preview experience reflects Universal’s effort to improve the event for the Team Members who help bring the scares to life each season.
For many Universal Team Members, Preview Night serves as their first chance to experience the year’s haunted houses, scare zones, entertainment offerings, exclusive merchandise, and limited-time food and beverage items before the event opens to the public.
We’ll continue following Halloween Horror Nights 35 announcements, haunted house reveals, scare zone details, merchandise previews, and event updates. Be sure to check back with Theme Park Scope for the latest HHN news, Universal Orlando updates, and spooky season coverage.
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