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    NOW OPEN: Universal Orlando Resort's Largest Daytime Parade, Universal Mega Movie Parade

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    NOW OPEN: UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT’S LARGEST DAYTIME PARADE, UNIVERSAL MEGA MOVIE PARADE – CELEBRATING ICONIC FILMS INCLUDING E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL, JAWS, GHOSTBUSTERS, AND MORE
     
    Universal Mega Movie Parade Completes the Exciting Collection of All-New Daytime and Nighttime Experiences Now Open at Universal Orlando, Including DreamWorks Land, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, and Hogwarts Always
    ORLANDO, Fla. (July 17, 2024) – Guests can watch in awe as fan-favorite films leap off the screen and onto the streets of Universal Studios Florida during Universal Mega Movie Parade, now open at Universal Orlando Resort. The all-new parade highlights iconic movies such as E.T., Back to the Future, JAWS, Ghostbusters, Jurassic World, Illumination’s Minions and Sing, and DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Kung Fu Panda.
     
    Universal Mega Movie Parade combines 13 new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more – and special effects to create a jaw-dropping experience that allows guests to relive classic film moments in a whole new way. Guests can see the colorful Caterbus with giant rainbows on the vibrant Trolls float, a massive 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man atop the Ghostbusters float, groovy Minions on a 70s dance floor across the Minions float, a live marching drum line performing the iconic movie score from JAWS alongside a float themed to the film, and – for the epic finale – the fierce Tyrannosaurus rex aboard the Jurassic World float – and so much more. Fans can also spot additional details that pay homage to iconic elements from the films on some of the floats as the parade winds through Universal Studios Florida.
     
    To add to the excitement, guests can purchase all-new interactive bubble wands inspired by some of the parade’s films that illuminate, blow bubbles, vibrate, and activate sounds when interacting with select Universal Mega Movie Parade floats, as well as other bubble wands. Featuring characters from DreamWorks Animation's Trolls, Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment's Jurassic World, and Illumination's Minions, each bubble wand features sounds and lights unique to each character, creating custom interactions for guests to enjoy. The selection of bubble wands is available for purchase now at various retail locations throughout Universal Orlando Resort.
    Universal Mega Movie Parade tops off the exciting collection of new experiences that Universal Orlando Resort debuted this summer – offering fun for the whole family from day to night. Other new, “must-see” experiences include:
    • DreamWorks Land (located in Universal Studios Florida): an expansive, vibrant themed environment featuring attractions, character meet and greets, interactive play areas and a live show inspired by beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda;
    • CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular (located in Universal Studios Florida): a riveting new nighttime lagoon show that takes guests on a cinematic journey through sentimental soundtracks from blockbuster films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions;
    • Hogwarts Always in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade (located in Universal Islands of Adventure): an all-new castle projection show that takes guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts.


    Access to all of the incredible new entertainment at Universal Orlando is included with admission to the theme parks. Guests can take advantage of a variety of special offers to plan their visit to enjoy these new experiences and all that the theme park destination has to offer, including:
    • the “Get 2 Days Free with a 2-Park, 3-Day Ticket” offer, which allows guests to enjoy five days of theme park fun across Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure for the price of a 3-Day ticket.
    • saving 30% off a 3-Park, 5-Night Vacation Package that includes accommodations at Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort or Universal Aventura Hotel.
     
    Plus, guests can save 25% on all room types, including 2-bedroom suites, at Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites & Surfside Inn and Suites for stays of three to six nights now through August 24, 2024. Click here to take advantage of this offer.
     
    For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit universalorlando.com.
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    Busch Gardens Tampa Announces The Grand Opening of Phoenix Rising

    Get Ready to Rise as Phoenix Rising Set to Open for Pass Members at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Starting on July 17 and Opening to All Guests on July 21
     
    Annual Pass Members Unlock Early Access to Phoenix Rising starting July 17, and Guests Who Purchase an Annual Pass Today Will Be Among the First to Ride
    TAMPA, Fla. (July 17, 2024) – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay today announced the grand opening of Phoenix Rising, the most anticipated coaster of 2024. Pass Members will be the first to soar high above the Serengeti Plain during previews, July 17 - 20, 2024. The ride will open to the public on July 21, when guests will have the chance to ride on the wings of the legendary phoenix aboard North America’s tallest and longest inverted family coaster, only at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Phoenix Rising is the park’s tenth roller coaster and the park’s first roller coaster to feature on board audio and lighting.
     
    “We are excited to unveil Phoenix Rising to our pass members and guests,” said Stewart Clark, Park President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. "Our pass members are in for a special treat as they get to be among the first to ride this incredible coaster. With a height requirement of just 42 inches, it's an adventure the whole family can enjoy together."
     
    Aboard Phoenix Rising, riders will be immersed in an exciting, family-friendly adventure as they soar above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Serengeti Plain and navigate through thrilling twists and turns above the skies of Pantopia. Inspired by the legend of the phoenix, this suspended roller coaster offers surprises and speeds reaching 44 miles per hour. With a height requirement of just 42 inches, guests of all ages can let their imagination—and their adrenaline—soar as they feel the rush of the wind and the thrill of flight.
    Be Among the First to Ride Phoenix Rising with a Busch Gardens Annual Pass
    Starting Wednesday, July 17, pass members will have exclusive access to experience Phoenix Rising before it opens to the public on July 21. The best way to enjoy Phoenix Rising, including early access to this family-friendly coaster, is to become a Pass Member. For a limited time, guests can save up to 50% on Tickets, Fun Cards, and Annual Passes during the Summer Sale. Hurry, this offer ends soon and provides the best value of the year! In addition to exclusive perks and monthly rewards, Pass Members can enjoy a vibrant array of seasonal events throughout the year for as low as $14 per month.
     
    Guests can learn more about all the events, future announcements and the unbeatable benefits of being an Annual Pass member by visiting BuschGardensTampa.com. To be the first to know about park updates, guests can follow Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and TikTok.
     
    About Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
    Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, offering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA accredited zoo with over 16,000 animals representing more than 200 species, and exciting seasonal 8events all year providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age. For more information, visit BuschGardensTampa.com. Busch Gardens is owned by United Parks & Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: PRKS), a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.
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    Get Ready to Grill and Thrill at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s All-New Bourbon & BBQ Festival

    Get Ready to Grill and Thrill at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s All-New Bourbon & BBQ Festival Featuring Smoky Flavors and Smooth Spirits
     
    With tickets, fun cards, and annual passes up to 50% off, savor 12 new BBQ dishes and 25+ handcrafted cocktails every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from July 19 through September 2
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    TAMPA, Fla., (July 15, 2024) – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is heating things up with the debut of its all-new Bourbon & BBQ event, a sizzling celebration of smoky flavors and smooth spirits taking place on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from July 19 through September 2, including Labor Day. The all-new culinary celebration, included with park admission, will take guests on a tantalizing journey as the park transforms into a haven for barbecue enthusiasts and bourbon connoisseurs with 12 newly BBQ infused menu items and more than 25 hand-crafted cocktails, including 12 new concoctions.
     
    In addition to all-new culinary and beverage delights, Bourbon & BBQ allows guests to stay late as they sip and savor the night away with live entertainment taking over the Coke Stage. Guests can enjoy tunes from rising local artists, including Luna and the Warriors, K-Luv & the United Funk Foundation and more. Outside of the festival area, guests can enjoy family-friendly activities, up-close encounters with over 200+ species of animals and top-off a day of festive fun with Florida’s most thrilling rides, including the high-flying Serengeti Flyer and the most anticipated coaster of 2024, Phoenix Rising.
     
    All-NEW BBQ Menu Includes Arrays of Smoky BBQ Flavors
    The menu for the first-ever Bourbon & BBQ festival is a pit master’s dream. Guests can savor all-new BBQ-inspired menu offerings that include:
    • NEW - Glazed Pulled Turkey: Slow-smoked turkey served with sweet potatoes roasted in a brown sugar-butter glaze and BBQ sauce infused with Cherry Coke® and black cherry hot sauce.
    • NEW - Smoked Pork Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone smoked pork ribs smothered in a sweet & tangy Coca-Cola® BBQ sauce with a side of lima beans and corn-roasted red pepper succotash.
    • NEW - Lamb Ribs: Bourbon-brined lamb ribs slow-smoked with a side of sweet cream cornbread and mustard BBQ sauce.
    • NEW - Smoked Heirloom Tomato Salad: Local heirloom tomatoes cold smoked and placed on a bed of mixed greens finished with an aged balsamic glaze.
    • NEW - Apple Smoked Pork: Apple Brined Pulled Pork topped with a sweet & spicy bourbon BBQ sauce and served with brown sugar baked beans.
    • NEW - Slow Smoked Beef Chuck: Dry Rubbed Beef Chuck slow cooked and tossed in a Florida-style BBQ sauce and served with a peach-infused coleslaw.
    • NEW - Beef Brisket: Chopped Brisket tossed in a key lime ketchup BBQ sauce with a hint of habanero on top of creamy mac and cheese.
    • NEW - Smoked Chicken: Dry Rubbed Chicken Thighs glazed in a mustard BBQ sauce and served with a creamy house-made potato salad.
    • NEW - Lamb Shank: Tender lamb shank slow-cooked with maple wood and placed on top of buttery red mashed potatoes finished with a rich dark molasses BBQ sauce.
    • NEW - Smoked Salmon: House-smoked salmon over a bed of jasmine rice topped with Bulgogi BBQ sauce and sriracha honey drizzle.
    • NEW - Smoked Chicken Sandwich: Pulled Smoked Chicken topped with peach habanero BBQ sauce on a potato roll.
     
    Smooth Spirits and Hand-Crafted Cocktails Await All Guests
    From hand crafted cocktails, full bodied beers, and crisp ciders, an array of over 25 types of drink offerings awaits guests to sip and savor the day away. Featured new additions include:
     
    • NEW – Blackberry Smash: Tasty blackberry puree combined with Buffalo Trace Bourbon
    • NEW – Traveller Lemonade: Delicious, sweetened lemonade with Traveller Whiskey
    • NEW – Corazon Margarita: Corazon Tequila aged specifically for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in only single Blanton's Bourbon Barrels
    • NEW – Hibiscus Vodka Mule: Fresh Hibiscus with Wheatley Vodka
      
    Upgrade the Experience with Two All-New Tantalizing Bourbon Tastings
    Discover the world of bourbon with the Treetop Bourbon Tasting, a guided experience led by a distilling expert. On Saturdays, enjoy Buffalo Trace Distillery's finest, and on Sundays, savor the best of Jack Daniel's Distillery. Start with a welcome cocktail in a signature Bourbon & BBQ barrel cup at the Map Room of Treetop Kitchen. Each guest will receive five half ounce pours of specially curated spirits paired with food while learning about spirit making from renowned distilleries. Alternatively, enjoy the St. Augustine Distillery Tasting, featuring four delectable spirits or a single neat pour with bottles available for purchase.
     
    Savor The Flavors of Bourbon & BBQ with an Annual Pass
    Bourbon & BBQ Festival is included with park admission. The best way to experience this year’s event is by becoming an Annual Pass Member for less than $15/month + tax with no down payment. Annual passes allow guests to enjoy 12 months of visits with special benefits like free parking, free guest tickets, access to special VIP events, savings on merchandise, up-close animal encounters and more! Plus, pass members will be among the first to ride Phoenix Rising, the park’s all-new family coaster.
       
    About Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
    Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, offering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA accredited zoo with over 16,000 animals representing more than 200 species, and exciting seasonal 8events all year providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age. For more information, visit BuschGardensTampa.com. Busch Gardens is owned by United Parks & Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: PRKS), a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.
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    Six Flags Magic Mountain Update - July 15, 2024

    DC Universe Fright Fest Six Flags Six Flags Magic Mountain
    Happy Monday and welcome to our first update from Six Flags Magic Mountain in a bit. We've been rather busy so haven't really had time to get up to the park to check out what's going on and experience the new events going on at the park. 

    But I had some time last Friday and needed some coaster fun, so headed up to the park. 

    There doesn't seem to be too much going on right now, guessing most of it is happening backstage for Fright Fest. I'm sure we'll get some news coming up at Midsummer Scream which will be held on July 26-28. If you don't have your tickets yet, be sure to grab them. Magic Mountain will be hosting a live panel on Saturday at 1:30. And we'll of course be there to bring you all the fun and announcements. 

    ​Let's head into the park for a quick update! We've got photos and video for you today! 
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    No evident changes to anything out here since the merger with Cedar Fair.

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    But it's now acceptable to wear Cedar Point shirts at Magic Mountain, and vice versa. Who would have ever thought it would actually happen?

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    The geese are hanging out as always. Always a fun greeting from them.

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    I hadn't ridden anything too extreme since our Orlando trip in May so figured I'd start with a classic. Almost got a zen ride but a front row ride on the first train of the day was good enough.

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    I hadn't ridden Roaring Rapids in probably a few years, so figured I'd take a spin.

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    Unfortunately no solo rides on the rapids and nobody was coming. So I didn't ride.

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    Looks like the bus sustained some damage when it ran over Mr. Six for the Fright Fest announcement.

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    The general consensus is that Aftermath 2 will be converted to Army of the Dead for Fright Fest, and it does look like some work is going on.

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    The main building is still there, which makes sense. This area could easily house two mazes for Fright Fest.

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    New since our last visit, the VIP lounge is now an arcade. I think this is a much better use of the space TBH.

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    A look inside the arcade. Some arcade games, but mostly claw machine games.

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    Like most arcades these days, you will need to buy an arcade game card to play.

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    Unfortunately the boardwalk games do not use the same system but use credit cards, Apple/Google pay or the Cash to a Card. Would be great if they would all be on the same system. Would definitely make it easier for park guests.

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    The umbrellas that were (obviously) temporary on the new Jet Stream bridge have been removed. We'll see what the more permanent covering on the bridge looks like hopefully soon.

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    The new bridge looks fantastic BTW!

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    Somebody on Twitter had asked what the old Dragon station looks like, well here you go. The path of the dragon pretty much ran parallel to the final Ninja Lift Hill. And you can still see the turn-around on the top side in the Ninja Station floor.

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    Took a spin on Riddler's Revenge for the first time in awhile. Still a top 5 coaster at the park. And I still say it would be #2 at the park if it had sit-down trains. B&M doesn't make them like this any more.

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    Decided to check out some of the decor for the Heroes and Villains Fest. Have heard great things about this event.

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    Kitty!

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    No progress on whatever is taking the place of the Golden Bear Theater. We are getting close to the traditional announcement season. Maybe we'll know soon?

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    BTW, for anybody who thought we'd no longer be able to take construction updates while in the park, we got some clarification from the park regarding construction updates: "If you’re sharing park updates that are visible from the park midways, you’re free to post what you’d like as long as you’re in guest accessible areas". Hope that helps.

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    Lastly, a look at the updated parking lot and solar panels. Looks fantastic and a much needed improvement.

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    That said, I really do hope they are going to repave all of the entry/exit roads before they are done with the project. It needs it.

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    Alright everybody, that's going to wrap it up for this update. Hope you enjoyed! We will probably be back at the park soon once Fright Fest prep starts happening!

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    SeaWorld San Diego Celebrates San Diego Pride

    SeaWorld San Diego is hosting its first annual Pride Inspired Week with a celebration of inclusivity featuring a daily Pride meet up, a sensational brunch with LGBTQIA+ stars, specialty merchandise, food & beverage, a photo op and more! Festivities will take place July 19 through July 28 and are included with park admission
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    In-park activities and offerings during Pride Inspired Week include:
    Daily Pride Meet Up – Guests can mix, mingle, and meet new people at The Waterfront. Offered daily at 2 p.m., park guests can sit back and hang out in the scenic space or opt to dance and celebrate inclusivity as the SeaWorld DJ plays music set to the beautiful backdrop of Mission Bay.

    Pride Day Lunch – Offered for the first time ever at SeaWorld, an exclusive, lively and entertaining performance from LGBTQIA+ stars during an all-you-care-to-eat brunch! The dining event will take place at Nautilus Pavilion from 1:00-3:00pm. Reservations are recommended.

    Pride Merchandise – An amazing line of exclusive all-new Pride swag will debut with the event! The park has a variety of options inspired by Pride, including spirit jerseys, shirts, tank tops, hats, cups, tumblers, plush, water bottles and more. Guests can check out the merch at the SeaWorld Store and Discoveries Fresh Market.

    Pride Pins – SeaWorld will launch four limited-edition Pride pins to kick off the week. Pin traders and any guest who wants to join in the fun of SeaWorld's interactive pin trading experience can collect favorite pins and/or trade them at the park with SeaWorld Ambassadors and other park guests.

    Food & Beverage – Park visitors can indulge in special Pride inspired desserts and drinks, including the famous Shamu Cookie, cupcakes, churros and a specialty cocktail and mocktail!

    Photo Op – Located near the park entrance, guests can show their love, affection and appreciation for one another with a photo alongside the “Love is an Ocean” colorful backdrop.  

    Rainbow Tunnel of Lights – An All-New Tunnel of Lights for the ultimate insta-worthy moment, walk through a music-activated, shimmering rainbow of over 5,000 colorful lights!
    During San Diego Pride, SeaWorld is also participating in the San Diego Pride Festival on July 20 and 21. The park is celebrating the LGBQTIA+ community and will have an oversized “Love is an Ocean” art coloring mural wall for attendees to express creativity and color throughout the day. In addition, SeaWorld will have a colorful photo opp and will be distributing stickers and buttons at the event.
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    Guests can honor and celebrate San Diego Pride at SeaWorld and explore “So Much More to Sea” during the park’s 60th Anniversary celebrations this summer. Guests who want to enjoy all the celebrations again and again can take advantage of the best benefits ever and have unlimited admission year-round, free parking, discounts, and more with an Annual Pass. SeaWorld is offering up to 65% off tickets, Fun Cards and Annual Passes for a limited time. Tickets can be purchased at www.seaworldsandiego.com
    ​
    WHEN:                July 19-28, 2024
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    “Insidious: The Further” Brings a Terrifying Realm of Darkness to Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights

    “Insidious: The Further” Brings a Terrifying Realm of Darkness to Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights in an All-New Haunted House Inspired by the Hit Supernatural Horror Insidious Film Franchise
     
    All Event Tickets are On Sale for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort 
    ​and     Universal Studios Hollywood
     
    Click Here for a Sneak Peek and Here to Purchase Tickets
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    Universal City, Calif., Orlando, Fla. (July 11, 2024) –This fall, Halloween Horror Nights guests will travel deeper into the paranormal dimension of tortured souls and demonic entities when they enter “Insidious: The Further,” an all-new haunted house inspired by the successful Insidious film franchise. The terrifying journey through the darkness is set to begin Friday, August 30 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 5 at Universal Studios Hollywood.
     
    Produced by Blumhouse Productions in association with Sony Pictures, Insidious tells the disturbing story of the Lamberts, a family haunted by evil supernatural forces after their son slips into an inexplicable comatose state after becoming possessed by a demonic entity. In the all-new Halloween
    Horror Nights haunted house, guests will follow in the footsteps of the Lamberts, encountering familiar settings and scares as they are transported directly into “The Further” – the ethereal place where ghosts and demons lurk. And just like in the films, guests will quickly learn that the paranormal creatures are here to stay…
     
    Guests’ journey into “Insidious: The Further” begins as they step through the iconic red door, where many of the tormented spirits and demons from the franchise await – determined to ensnare humans and steal their souls. Fans will come face-to-face with The Red-Faced Demon, who will attempt to lure them into his lair; the grim KeyFace, hoping to lock his victims in this dark dimension; the ghastly and dangerous Bride in Black; and the vengeful spirit of the Man Who Can’t Breathe. As guests make their way through the haunted house, they’ll go from red door to red door – traveling deeper into a dark and timeless astral world where they must evade this collection of sinister creatures at every spine-chilling turn, or their souls will be trapped here…forever.
     
    All event tickets for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood are now available for purchase.
     
    At Universal Orlando Resort, the popular Frequent Fear and Rush of Fear Passes are now on sale, allowing guests to enjoy more horror with access to the event on multiple nights. Fans can also get an early start by adding the Scream Early ticket to their Halloween Horror Nights ticket, which gives them access to Universal Studios Florida between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to face the thrills of the theme park before braving the chills of Halloween Horror Nights. Single-night tickets and event upgrades like Express Pass, R.I.P. Tour and the daytime Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour are also available. Universal Orlando Annual Passholders can also take advantage of exclusive discounts on single-night tickets on August 30 and 31, and select nights in September. Tickets for Universal Orlando’s first-ever Premium Scream Night on Thursday, August 29 - an unprecedented, limited-capacity event that gives fans access to everything they love about Halloween Horror Nights before the event officially opens – are also now available. More information about all Universal Orlando’s current Halloween Horror Nights vacation packages, offers and entitlements can be found at www.universalorlando.com/halloween.
     
    A variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options for Universal Studios Hollywood are also now available, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the Early Access Ticket, which provides access to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change), in advance of the scheduled 7:00 p.m. event opening time, the premium R.I.P. Tour and popular passes, Frequent Fear and Ultimate Fear, which enable guests to experience the scares again and again. Click here to purchase tickets and for Terms and Conditions.
     
    Fans can get a jump-start on their Halloween Horror Nights gear with an all-new merchandise collection available for purchase now at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, as well as online at http://shop.universalorlando.com. New items include a t-shirt and candle inspired by the all-original “Insidious: The Further” haunted house.
     
    Additional details, including new haunted houses coming to both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, will be revealed soon. For more information and to purchase tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood’s event, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/Halloween. For more information and to purchase tickets for Universal Orlando’s event, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/Halloween.