Universal Studios Cancels Halloween Horror Nights for 2020
Jul. 24 2020, Updated 8:16 p.m. ET
Many people had hoped that the novel coronavirus would be over by now or, at the very least, had hoped by Fall we would be able to have some sort of normalcy. Instead, it looks like Halloween is going to be impacted by the pandemic and it's not what we wanted to hear. Universal Studios announced the cancellation of Halloween Horror Nights, with a refund being issued in place of the scares.
Halloween Horror Nights is officially canceled on both coasts.
No one likes bad news, but unfortunately, we have some. Universal Orlando Resorts has announced its annual Halloween Horror Nights has been canceled. The event, which is historically held at Universal Studios in both Florida and California, will not take place this October 2020. This is the first time the Universal Orlando Resort will not hold the popular event in the 30 years it has been running.
The reason for the cancelation is the ongoing coronavirus. Although Universal Orlando began its phased reopening in June, Universal Studios Hollywood has been closed since March when the coronavirus pandemic first began in the United States, and there have been no plans released on when it will reopen.
"Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort have made the difficult decision to not hold Halloween Horror Nights events," both Orlando and Hollywood's Halloween Horror Nights social media accounts posted. "Universal Studios Hollywood continues to face ongoing business restrictions and uncertainty around its reopening timeframe. Universal Orlando will be focusing exclusively on operating its theme parks for daytime guests, using the enhanced health and safety procedures already in place."
The post concluded by saying, "We know this decision will disappoint our fans and guests. We are disappointed, too. But we look forward to creating an amazing event in 2021."
For anyone already planning to go to Halloween Horror Nights, refunds are being offered.
If anyone was planning to attend the 2020 Halloween Horror Nights, there are refunds being offered. There are multiple options: Guests can use the ticket or vacation package for next year's Halloween Horror Nights event, or they can receive a full refund.
"These options also apply to R.I.P. Tours and Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tours. Guests who purchased tickets or booked a vacation package can call 877-801-9720 for assistance," the Halloween Horror Nights site says.
If a guest purchased a "Buy an Event Night, Get a Second Event Night Free” package in 2020 and want to hold it for 2021 instead of getting a refund, they will be able to attend two select nights next year. More details on those dates will "be provided at a later time," the FAQ said.
The best way to prevent contracting or spreading the coronavirus is with thorough hand washing and social distancing. If you feel you may be experiencing symptoms of the coronavirus, which include persistent cough (usually dry), fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue, please call your doctor before going to get tested. For comprehensive resources and updates, visit the CDC website. If you are experiencing anxiety about the virus, seek out mental health support from your provider or visit NAMI.org.
