Halloween Horror Nights fans, it’s time to start paying attention to August.

Universal Studios Hollywood has officially confirmed that its annual Halloween Horror Nights presentation will return to Midsummer Scream 2026, one of the world’s largest Halloween and horror conventions.
The presentation is scheduled for Sunday, August 9, 2026, during the convention’s three-day run at the Long Beach Convention Center.
But it’s the tease accompanying the announcement that has horror fans buzzing.

In a social media post promoting the panel, longtime Halloween Horror Nights creative executive John Murdy wrote:
“OK Boils and Ghouls, save this date for the traditional HHN closing night panel at Midsummer Scream. Been doing this show since the beginning and it’s always a pleasure. Will there be an announcement? Or even announcements? Show up and find out!”
That last line is what has HHN fans speculating.
A History of Major HHN Reveals
For years, Midsummer Scream has served as one of the premier venues for Halloween Horror Nights announcements, often featuring haunted house reveals, original concept teases, behind-the-scenes details, entertainment updates, and exclusive previews of the upcoming event.

Because the panel takes place just weeks before Halloween Horror Nights begins, Universal frequently uses the presentation to reveal final details that haven’t yet been announced publicly.
With Halloween Horror Nights 35 shaping up to be one of the most anticipated years in event history, fans are already wondering what surprises Universal may have in store.
What Could Be Announced?
At this point, Universal has not provided any clues about what announcements may be planned.

However, based on previous years, possibilities could include:
- New haunted house reveals
- Scare zone announcements
- Entertainment details
- Exclusive merchandise previews
- Food and beverage offerings
- Special anniversary surprises
- Behind-the-scenes looks at HHN 35
Of course, Universal isn’t saying anything just yet.
Midsummer Scream Returns in August
Midsummer Scream 2026 will take place August 7-9 at the Long Beach Convention Center and will once again bring together major theme parks, haunted attractions, horror creators, vendors, and Halloween enthusiasts from around the world.
The Halloween Horror Nights panel traditionally serves as one of the convention’s biggest presentations and often attracts standing-room-only crowds.

Whether it’s one announcement or several, Universal is clearly teasing that fans will want to pay close attention when the panel takes place on August 9.
We’ll continue tracking Halloween Horror Nights 35 announcements, haunted house reveals, scare zone updates, merchandise news, and everything coming to HHN this year. Be sure to check back with Theme Park Scope for the latest spooky season coverage and Universal Parks updates.






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