Halloween 2026 is shaping up to be bigger and more spine-tingling than ever, and Howl-O-Scream is leading the charge. Voted the number one Best Theme Park Halloween Event by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice, this annual after-dark spectacular transforms SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay into nightmarish worlds of haunted houses, scare zones, roaming hordes and thrilling night-time rides!
If you’re a first-timer curious about what Howl-O-Scream actually involves, or a seasoned horror enthusiast planning your 2026 trip, we’ve put together this complete guide to help you plan your night.
What is Howl-O-Scream?
Howl-O-Scream is an annual Halloween event hosted across select nights each Autumn at two Florida theme parks: SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
When the sun goes down, both parks are transformed into immersive after-dark experiences, packed with uniquely themed haunted houses, park-wide scare zones, roaming horror characters, live entertainment, and the extraordinary opportunity to ride world-class thrill attractions in the dark.
Which parks host Howl-O-Scream in Florida?
Howl-O-Scream takes place at two Florida theme parks in 2026, each offering its own exciting experience!
Howl-O-Scream in SeaWorld Orlando:
- 5 uniquely themed haunted houses
- 6 scare zones where the fear is never far and no path is safe
- 2 roaming hordes - you’ll never know when or where the terror will strike next
- 5 themed bars with eerie cocktails and chilling vibes
- Electrifying live shows, DJ dance parties and atmospheric entertainment throughout the night
- Plus never-before-seen surprises to be revealed as the darkness draws near
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay includes:
- 5 uniquely themed haunted houses
- Sinister scare zones and shows
- A selection of adrenaline fuelling rides (All-New Serengeti Flyer, Iron Gwazi, Tigris, Cheetah Hunt, SheiKra, Kumba, Montu, Falcon's Fury and Cobra's Curse)
- Exclusive snacks to feed your fears
- Exclusive boo-tiful merchandise
When is Howl-O-Scream?
Howl-O-Scream runs across select nights from September through to November 2026 at both Florida parks. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has the longer season, opening on 4 September, while SeaWorld Orlando begins on 11 September. Both parks run through to the end of October and into November.
SeaWorld Howl-O-Scream 2026 dates:
- September: 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27
- October: 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream 2026 dates:
- September: 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27
- October: 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
- November: 1
How do I get a ticket to Howl-O-Scream?
Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event and so standard tickets will not give you admission to this event. Purchase your SeaWorld Howl-O-Scream tickets here and purchase your Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream tickets here.
What time does Howl-O-Scream run until?
Both parks open their gates ahead of the event starting, giving you time to find your feet before the horror begins.
- SeaWorld Orlando: Gates open at 6:30pm, event starts at 7:00pm and ends at midnight.
- Busch Gardens: Gates open at 5:00pm, event starts at 7:00pm and ends at midnight.
Can I dress up?
Costumes are not permitted at Howl-O-Scream. Both parks have a no-costume policy for guests attending the event.
Is there an age limit?
There is no minimum age requirement for Howl-O-Scream, however, the event features mature content including depictions of blood, gore and violence across the haunted houses and scare zones.
The experience may be intense and is not recommended for younger or more sensitive visitors. Parental discretion is strongly advised.
