August 18, 2025 • 24 mins
Last week was MASSIVE for Halloween Fans, beginning with the opening of Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, followed by Midsummer Scream in Long Beach. Haunted Attractions took advantage of the 50,000+ attendees at Midsummer Scream to announce their Halloween plans - and we've gathered EVERYTHING for you! Highlights: Universal Reveals Terrifier Haunted House Details; Five Nights at Freddy's Pizza Place Previews; Elvira moves in to LA Haunted Hayride; Delusion & Magic of the Jack-o'-Lanterns get new homes; Six Flags Fright Fest Announces 1 new maze for 2025; Knott's Scary Farm retires 2 mazes; Legacy Cedar Fair Parks will now Charge for Haunted Houses; Hersheypark Halloween Partners with Shaquille O'Neal; SeaWorld San Diego's Howl-O-Scream Returns; Scooby-Doo and the Gang to Appear at Universal Volcano Bay Nights; Industry Veterans Acquire Evansville's House of Lecter & The Old Catacombs. Read more here: https://mailchi.mp/hauntedattractionnetwork.com/horror-unleashed-opens-park-announcements-galore
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:07):
Coming up your weekly roundup of news from around the
haunt industry. Welcome to the show. I'm Philip on the
HN Show. We bring you the haunt news, information, and
education you need to prepare for Halloween. On Tuesdays, we
bring you a roundup of news from haunts worldwide. Read
(00:28):
more about these stories and so much more in our
free weekly newsletter. Subscribe at the link in the show notes,
and as always for the news roundup, I'm passing it
off to Darryl Universal.
Speaker 2 (00:39):
Horror Unleashed, a year round Haunted attraction is now open
at Area fifteen in Las Vegas, and the Haunted Attraction
Network was among the first to visit. The first of
its kind venue features four haunted houses, four immersive zones,
themed dining, and the return of fan favorite icon Jack
the Clown. But unlike Halloween Horror Nights quick hits the thrills,
(01:01):
Horror Unleashed encourages lingering, chatting with street characters, grabbing and drink,
and watching the action unfold around you. At HHN the
pace is relentless. You queue, you walk, you scream, you exit,
but here you can take your time. The style of
entertainment is mostly horror events, is momentary, said TJ. Marinarow,
VP of Entertainment, Art and Design. Here you can stay
(01:21):
as long as you want, get to know the characters,
and watch their stories unfold. Follow the links in our
show notes to view the complete guide to the attraction.
Philip Fernandez of The Haunted Attraction Network also wrote a
review of the Universal Horror Unleashed for Attractions Magazine. His sake,
if you love Halloween horror nights, this is your home
away from HHN home. Its vibes over rides with the
(01:43):
same production value, lighting, sound, and sets Universal is known for,
but with the luxury of time, you can linger in
the haunts, chat with characters, and enjoy the atmosphere That
said scares lean heavily on the live actors and jump scares.
You won't find the elaborate animatronics or puppet effects of
wild ah crowds in past years. Hardcore Haunt travelers may
find that the set's beautiful, but the scare tactics are repetitive,
(02:06):
especially given the sixty nine dollars starting ticket price comparable
to HHN Hollywood, which offers more houses and rides but
only run seasonally. Ultimately, whether it's worth it depends on
your proximity, your appetite for the HHN style, and the
appeal of the year round horror hangout for HHN superstars.
It's a haven for casual visitors. It's a polished, immersive
(02:28):
horror experience. Just know you're paying for the atmosphere and access,
not a marathon of different scares. Tickets for a Universal
Horror Unleashed or on sale now on their official website.
Midnight Syndicate composed an original horror score for Universal Horror Unleashed.
Gothic Horror and Haunt music composers Midnight Syndicate have written
an original score for Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(02:52):
The score is Midnight Syndicate's latest collaboration with Universal Entertainment.
They have collaborated with Universal since nineteen ninety nine, when
the band's music first appeared at Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Night.
It's an honor to be part of this next exciting
chapter in Universal's legacy of horror entertainment, said composer Edward Douglas.
Universal Horror Unleashed marks Midnight Syndicate's first custom score for
(03:15):
an attraction, conveying an imaginary scene through music is something
we've been doing since the beginning of Midnight Syndicate, but
capturing someone else's vision for a project always presents a
uniquely exciting set of challenges, said Gavin Coska. Douglas added well,
writing for Universal Horror Unleashed was more akin to writing
a Midnight Syndicate album than scoring a film. We needed
(03:36):
to keep in mind that, like a film score, music
was just one of the cogs in the machine and
needed to seamlessly elevate many elements guests will be experiencing.
Universal is creating a truly immersive horror experience with Universal
Horror Unleashed, where we think horror fans are really going
to enjoy losing themselves. Explore the Massive Hall of Shadows
(03:56):
at Midsummer Scream twenty twenty five. Midsummer Scream and Longbeat
each California took place this last weekend with over fifty
thousand attendees, three hundred and fifty vendors, and presentations from
many local attractions. It's a Halloween paradise. Unique to Midsummer
Scream is the Massive Hall of Shadows, a darkened space
filled with miniature haunted houses. The Haunted Attraction Network was
(04:18):
there opening night to brave the signature attractions Lions Gates,
Gears of Fears, Too, Fear Farm, Eulogy, Collective, Deadly Sins, Sids,
Twisted Toy Box, Straight to Hale's Horror Rama, h and
L's Realm of Horror, The Manner of Deprivation, Lights Out,
the Jack the Ripper Experience, Mister Floats of the Carnievil,
(04:39):
Hall of Souls, Calhoun s Ember Fall Up, Kingdom Apparel,
and Halloween Horror Nite. Mark your calendars because Midsummer Scream
will return August seventh through ninth of twenty twenty six.
Art the Clown takes over Halloween Horrornit's twenty twenty five
in the Maze and beyond the hallowe Ornit's twenty twenty
(05:01):
five panel at Midsummer Scream delivered an in depth look
at this year's Terrifier haunted houses, but two unexpected design
choices stood out. Most guests in Orlando could choose between
a dry path or a symphony of blood and art.
The Clown will be stalking guests throughout the entire event space,
even outside the maze. It's like Where's Waldo but it's art,
(05:23):
said HHN Orlando's senior director of Creative Development, Michael Io.
He might be in a store, but he could be anywhere.
You'll encounter him when you least expect it. Both coasts
will feature these stealthy encounters, with Io conferring that even
the Rip Lounge is not safe. Meanwhile, Orlando's finale for
Terrifier ops the ante with an immersive split path design.
(05:46):
Guests cannot for a dry walk through or lean into
the horror by choosing this symphony of blood, which culminates
in a full drenching under a blood waterfall as art
looms from above. We're not kidding, said Io. This is
our wettest house ever its front row Jurassic Park. Thirteenth
Floor Entertainment previews California Halloween lineup. In a presentation at
(06:08):
Midsummer Scream, Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group previewed their California Halloween
lineup to eager fan. The panel featured Thirteenth Floor Entertainment
Group CEO Chris Stafford, Director of Special Projects Brent Bertolino,
Senior Regional Manager, Amy Holloman, creator of Delusion, and Director
Immersive Entertainment at thirteenth Floor, John Braver and creator of
(06:29):
the Los Angeles Haunted hay Ride and producer at thirteenth
Floor Melissa Carbone. Los Angeles Haunted hay Ride in Los Angeles,
California returns for its seventeenth year, along with fan favorite
elements from the first ten years of the event, as
well as characters in some of the original attraction scores.
This return to form will include full show stops during
(06:50):
the hay Ride, where wagons will pause for choreographed scare sequences,
reinstating a style that made the hay Ride unique in
its early years. Midnight Falls will become more immersive with
new themed foodstalls instead of food trucks. New for twenty
twenty five will be the Midnight Falls Cider Company, an
experience where guests can enjoy applesiter cier donuts, and a
(07:12):
stroll through the mill with various photo ops. A new
denizen will arrive to Midnight Falls, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.
Alvira has taken over as DJ of the local radio station,
so guests can expect to hear her voiceover work throughout
the night. She will transform a former fan favorite maze
into Elvira's Trick or Treat Mayhem, where her brand of
energy will be felt and seen throughout. Delusion is also
(07:35):
relocating to a new venue, the Variety Arts Theater in
downtown Los Angeles, California. This year's event will be called
Delusion Herrowing of Hell and will feature improved lounge experience
complete with a dance club high energy vibe. Attendees will
walk the pagan's path through twisted versions of Dante's Inferno
and endure a reflection of mortal weaknesses in sin. A
(07:58):
new online stor is longlaunched for fans to purchase official merchandise,
including shirts, housewares, accessories, and more. Festival Fright Nights at
Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California will focus on authenticity,
with elements of the event's lord drawn from the history
of the mansion. The event will feature three main attractions,
Masquerade of Shadows taking place in the front part of
(08:21):
the mansion, the Root of All Evil taking place in
the mansion greenhouses, and the Final Descent taking place in
one of the houses basements. There will be an exclusive
invite only experience, Maestro's Masquerade Ball, allowing a select few
the chance to learn a deeper layer of the story.
This event will invite guests into areas of the house
(08:41):
that have never been part of the Halloween activation before.
Magic of the Jack of Lanterns will now be at
a new venue, the South Coast Botanic Garden in Pallos Verdes, California.
The new location will allow them to double the size
of the event. If you came to Wittier Narrows last
year and saw the show, you probably know that we
have a lot of hand carved pumpkins, all different themes,
(09:01):
said Holloman. But now you're going to take that and
walk past these beautiful plants, and there's this display hidden
amongst the trees. So we really think this will feel immersive.
Six Flags Magic Mountain unveils a new maze, scare zones,
and a live show in a presentation at Midsummer Scream.
Six Flags Magic Mountain and Valencia, California shared further details
(09:22):
on new and returning elements for this year's fright Fest.
The park's only new maze for twenty twenty five is Carnage,
set in the city of Green Willow in the nineties.
Carnage introduces guests to a city that's come under siege
by clowns on the night of the City Centennial. The
Maze creates an origin story in the scare Zone City
under Siege, and guests will have the opportunity to become
(09:42):
one of the campus's disciples. Those who choose to be
branded in this insignia will have better interactions with his
generals out in the City under Siege scare Zone. The
Nightmare scare Zone will be rebranded to Nightmare's Reign of Blood.
The Red Queen in her Army have taken over Wonderland.
Guests will encounter the chester Wearcat, the White Rabbit, the
Mad Hatter, Alison Moore Thunderbolt. Ally is a new scare
(10:06):
Zone set in the nineteen fifties rockabilly world, where classic
monsters party hard and then burn rubber. In the afterlife,
guests will come face to face with the Bats, the
Red Ladies, bad Guys, the Demons, and an irate, abominable
Snowman ice cream salesman, as well as characters based on
classic Monsters. Fan favorite margot Rita will get her own
live show, margot Rita's Monster Ball. This is an all new,
(10:30):
high energy, very vibrant, very drag Inspired Experience shared Mark
Wing Senior Creative Supervisor. It will be a live song
and dance show featuring Margot and her daughters, Sapphire Martini,
Bloody Mary and Apple Spritz. As part of the performance,
guests will get to vote for a Queen of the performance. Lastly,
as part of six Flags and Cedior Fair merger, it
(10:50):
was announced that new interactive lanterns previously available at Not
Scary Farm, will also be available at six Flags. The
lanterns will activate experiences throughout the park and they will
work at any Six Flags park offering interactive lanterns. Twenty
twenty five marks the final year for the Grimwar and
Mesmar at Not Scary Farm. During their presentation at Midsummer's Scream,
(11:13):
Not Scary Farm from Buena Park, California announced that twenty
twenty five will be the final year for mazes the
Grimwar and Mesmer introduced in twenty twenty two. That Grimwire
centers around an evil ancient book that transport guests into
the various dark moments in its history. Mesmer, introduced in
twenty twenty one, centers on an evil hypnotist who praise
on the inner thoughts and hidden fears. Of members of
(11:35):
a traveling carnival. More announcements are expected this Tuesday, August
nineteenth that Not Scary Farm and Nightmares Revealed, co hosted
by dragstars The Boulet Brothers. The event will feature a
presentation in the full lineup of Not Scary Farm offerings,
including new mazes, shows, and more. Tickets for the Nightmare
Revealed are currently sold out. Six Flags to charge extra
(11:56):
for haunts during their Halloween season. Six Flags announ plans
to charge for Haunted House access to the legacy Cedar
Fair Parks for twenty twenty five. Entry into the park
during six Flags locations nighttime Helloween events, fright Fest, Scare
of Winds Halloween Haunt Hello weekends and Valley Scare is
included with daytime admission, but access to the haunts will
(12:19):
now require a new ten to thirty dollars Haunt ten
to thirty dollars Haunted Attractions pass and an extra fifteen
dollars for the Conjuring House. Even Gold pass holders must pay,
sparking backlash from fans who see it as a bait
and switch. In this week's episode of the Green Tag Podcast,
Philip and Scott debate whether the new pricing model is
(12:40):
a necessary step forward towards higher quality haunts, or a
misstep that a roads trust. It appears that six Flags
is moving into the separately ticketed model of not Scary
Farm instead of the mix in model of legacy cedar
fair parks. But as six Flags attempts to unify its
Halloween portfolio, we'll guess pay for what they once got free.
(13:01):
And while a company is still bleeding cash, where will
the capitol come from to bring up the quality of
the Halloween events? Hollywood franchises come to fright Fest. Six
Flags Entertainment is bringing blockbuster horror franchises to life at
fright Fest in seven parks across North America. Six Flags Fiesta,
Texas and San Antonio, Texas. Six Flags Great Adventure in
(13:23):
Jackson Township, News, Jersey, Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois,
Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, Six Flags Mexico
and Mexico City, Mexico. Six Flags Over Georgia and Astele, Georgia,
and six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, Texas. Ips come
(13:44):
to the parks, including The Strangers. Chapter one and two
saw the Conjuring Universe Army of the Dead, Texas, Chainsaw
Massacre twenty twenty two, Trick or Treat and No Mi
sigis Bloomhaus's first original Spanish language horror films. Intellectual Properties
will join a vast catalog of haunted mazes with original
(14:04):
themes ranging from demented clowns and fairy tales gone wrong
to possess puppets and twisted holidays. Each park's list of attractions,
maze offerings, and passes will be available on its website.
Ced Your Point in Sandusky, Ohio, Canada's Wonderland in Ontario, Canada,
King's Island and Mason, Ohio, and Carol Winds in Charlotte,
North Carolina will feature a new Screamium experience, The Conjuring
(14:28):
Beyond Fear. Guests will navigate iconic scenes from the new
line cinemas the Conjuring Universe to lock away cursed artifacts
before supernatural chaos is unleashed. Race to restore order while
encountering legendary entities including the Nun, the Crooked Man, and
the Ferryman. Lock Annabel back in her secure box, or
risk catastrophic consequences for the living realm with state of
(14:51):
the Artifacts screamed scream environs, and a series of chilling
interactive challenges in an experience spanning more than twenty minutes,
The Conjuring Beyond Fear will plum guests deeper than ever
before into the Conjuring Universe. This experience requires a separate
entry fee of fifteen to twenty five dollars depending on
the night. Admission is included for Haunted Attractions Express Pass
(15:11):
ticket holders. Freddie Fasbear's Pizzeria is coming to HHN Orlando.
According to a reveal in the latest issue of SFX magazine,
guests at Universal Orlando's Resort Helloween Horror Nights in Orlando,
Florida will be able to dine at Freddy Fosbear's Pizzeria.
While the exact location has not yet been announced, the
article stated that there are plans to transform an established
(15:34):
restaurant for the duration of the event. Universal has already
announced the five nights of Freddy's Haunted House, with animatronic
and puppet figures being designed by Jim Henson's Creature Shop.
This restaurant overlay will allow fans of the franchise to
further immerse themselves within the beloved ip Universal gave fans
a sneak peak at the world of FNaF at this
past weekend's Midsummer Scream in Long Beach, California. A pop
(15:57):
up exhibit included a booth from Freddy Fosbear's Pizzeria, complete
with a life size Mister Cupcake. Hershey Helloween partners with
Shaquille O'Neil. Hershey Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is partnering with
Shaquille O'Neil as part of its Hershey Park Halloween seasonal
event and Dark Knight's Haunted Experience. During the Helloween season
September twelfth through November two, the park's glowing indoor coaster
(16:21):
laugh track will evolve into the shack Alicious laugh Track,
inspired by the shack Alicious excel Gummies. We're taking the
flavor in the fun of my shack Delicious excel Gummies
and blowing it up into a larger than life adventures
than Shaquille O'Neal. From the second you step inside, the
ride brings NonStop energy and laughs. The ride will feature
glowing visuals, amped up audio, and immersed graphic displays that
(16:44):
capture the candies playful spirits, along with a curated voiceover
by Shack. As part of Hershey Park Helloween and Dark Knights,
guests can experience five haunted houses, four scare zones, fifty
rides and attractions, Hershey's Trick or Treat Trail, and more,
all included with Hershey Park Halloween ticket. The seasonal event
will also feature exclusive culinary creations, including the return of
(17:06):
the popular Hershey Park Halloween Tasting Pass and Avenue of
the Afterlife Path with themed food and drink offerings and
live entertainment. Learn more about Hershey Park Halloween and Dark
Knights by following the links in their show notes or
visiting their official websites. SeaWorld San Diego's hallow Scream returns
with reimagined houses and new vile vignettes and scares Zone.
(17:29):
Helloscream returns to SeaWorld San Diego and San Diego, California
for its fifth year, select evenings September twelfth through November. First.
Two of the events five Haunted houses have received complete
revamps for this year's event, with Nightmare Experiment, Sweet Dreams
and Deathwater Buyu Awakening advertised as bringing even more elaborate
(17:51):
scares and detailed storytelling for twenty twenty five, the park
will host eight scare zones, including the all new Overgrowth,
the Nightmarish walk Through, and Overrun green House, where a
botanist mutant plant experiments now feed on passers by. Guests
can also brave two new vile vignettes in some of
the Spirits. An amateur paranormal investigator arrives in Ripper Row,
(18:11):
determined to contact a victim of Jack the Ripper. As
the sands begins, something darker answers instead. In Dully Delightful,
an eerily perfect porcelain doll finally breaks free from her
pristine box and has quite the temper. Guest must watch
out if she has an appetite for dismembering any limbs
that get too close to the Trimee button on the box.
A dark and theatrical monster stomp on Ripper Row will
(18:34):
returned to the stage in its sinister glory. This electrifying
show blend's live thunderous percussion, eerie vocals, and haunting visuals
into a gothic rock spectacle set in the streets of
Victoria in London. Tickets for Hella scream Or on sale now.
Scooby Doo in the Gang or Two appear at Universal
Volcano Bay Nights. The fall edition of Volcano Bay Nights
(18:55):
at Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida returns Friday nights
September fifth through October thirty first. During the exclusive event,
and guests will enjoy after dark access to the picturesque
Water theme park with an array of exciting experiences, including
all new fun with Scooby Doo in the Gang as
they confront villains within the Lavalette Paradise. The event runs
seven pm to eleven pm each Friday. Throughout the event,
(19:17):
guests will enjoy the park's iconic slides and attractions, live entertainment,
specialty food and beverage options, and complimentary snack. A Beach
Bash on Waturi Beach will feature a live DJ and
photo ops with the iconic Mystery Machine, Scooby Doo, Shaggy Filma,
Fred Daphne, and some of the villains from the animated series,
including the Ghost Clown. Tickets are on sale now starting
(19:38):
at ninety nine dollars plus tax per person. The industry
Veterans acquire Evansville's House of Lector and the Old Catacombs
onto attraction Veterans Kevin Stitch and Kevin Elvie, owner and
founder of gorgelore I, have teamed up to acquire the
House of Lector and the old Catacombs in Evansville, Indiana.
Former owner Philip phil Walter tragically paswer away in a
(20:00):
car accident last December. First and foremost, this is about
honoring Phil, said Kevin Stitch. Evansville grew up with his shows.
We're stepping in with deep respect for what we built,
and our goal is simply preserve the legacy, make us
family proud, and give Evansville a quality show. This season,
the team plans to focus on high impact improvements while
keeping the heart of the attraction intact. Twenty twenty five,
(20:22):
we'll see new storying tying the two haunts together in
a narrative universe, new props and scenic enhancements from Gorgalow,
and an overhaul to costuming, makeup, and masks. Kevin Elviy
of Gorgalore said, with the ability to create our own
monsters for this show, we hope to take this attraction
to the next level in the coming years. We are
grateful for the opportunity. We'll start with thoughtful updates this
(20:44):
season then invest for the long term. It's an honor
to help carry Phil's vision forward. Further details, including operating calendar,
storyline reveals, and pricing, will be posted on the coming
weeks on the Haunts official website. Southern Screams returns with
a Mortal at Holy Sees Brewing. Southern Screams in Charleston,
South Carolina is back for its fourth year at Holy
(21:05):
City Brewing with an all new Haunted attraction, Immortal, and
this year, Club Amp is open and everyone's dying for
an invitation to the city's darkest night of decadence. Step
into the pulsing heart of Club Amp, where hypnotic rhythms
echo through the shadows and an insatiable thirst courses beneath
the surface. This exclusive vampire nightclub is dripping in decadence
(21:25):
and danger. Here, more than just drinks are flowing, and
a party doesn't stop until the last drop is gone.
Our dream is thrilled to unveil Immortal, our boldest, bloodiest
concept yet, said Blake Taylor, creative director of Southern scream
Every year we challenge ourselves to deliver a more immersive,
more intense, and more unforgettable experience to our guests. This year,
We've done just that. Immortal will run twenty five nights
(21:47):
September twenty sixth through November eighth, with lights out nights
on November seventh and eighth. Tickets are on sale now,
starting at twenty dollars and ninety nine cents for general admission,
thirty five ninety nine for rip access, and forty nine
ninety nine for Behind the Screams Tour select nights only.
The Hershey Company announces it's Halloween candy lineup. The Hershey
Companies announced their newest lineup of must have treats for
(22:10):
the Halloween season. Get Nostalgic with Reese's pumpkins and miniatures
featuring the Peanuts Gang and the classic and It's a
Great Pumpkin. Charlie Brown unwrapped the magic of Hershey's Harry
Potter chocolates with characters like Dobby and Headwig. Or try
the brand new KitKat counts and creepy shapes perfect for
sharing or hoarding. Jack even joins the party with the
(22:30):
shack Alicious Exel Gummies. Hershey continues to be at the
forefront of Halloween festivities with iconic brands that have become
seasonal staples for our consumers to look forward to year
after years, said Katie DiCaprio, the Senior Manager Halloween at
the Hershey Company. This season, we elevated those signature brands
and created treats like Reese's Mini Pumpkins and KitKat counts
(22:51):
and convenient charable packaging, making it easier for anyone to
enjoy and celebrate together. For every type of candy fan,
whether you're a karamelcona sure Twizzler twister, or chocolate purist,
there's a mix made just for you, including new goodies
like Reese's Mini Pumpkins Unwrapped and Twizzler's Ghost Pumpkins. Spice
lovers can get their fix of Hershey's Nuggets, Pumpkin Spice Latte,
(23:13):
and salty snackers can grab Halloween ready skinny pop and
Pirates Moody packs. Whether you're stocking up for the Halloween rush,
greeting yourself on the go, or simply enjoying the flavors
and shapes of the season, Hershey remains a talk choice
for all your Halloween candy and snacking needs. Some upcoming
events this August through October include Creepy Real oc in
(23:33):
Santa Ana, California September twelfth through fourteenth, and the Sun
of Monster Palooza in Birdbank, California, October tenth through twelve.
Speaker 1 (23:43):
And that's all for the news this week. Today's episode
was produced by me Philip Bernandez, with reporting by Darryl
Plunky post production by David Swope. This hont News Update
is a production of the Haunted Attraction Network and you
can sign up to our weekly newsletter at Hauntattrastion Network
dot com. Report for this episode comes from Ghantum Mighty
and controls. Until next time, Hunters Stay Scary. This is
(24:09):
a Haunted Attraction Network production.
Coming up your weekly roundup of news from around the
haunt industry. Welcome to the show. I'm Philip on the
HN Show. We bring you the haunt news, information, and
education you need to prepare for Halloween. On Tuesdays, we
bring you a roundup of news from haunts worldwide. Read
(00:28):
more about these stories and so much more in our
free weekly newsletter. Subscribe at the link in the show notes,
and as always for the news roundup, I'm passing it
off to Darryl Universal.
Speaker 2 (00:39):
Horror Unleashed, a year round Haunted attraction is now open
at Area fifteen in Las Vegas, and the Haunted Attraction
Network was among the first to visit. The first of
its kind venue features four haunted houses, four immersive zones,
themed dining, and the return of fan favorite icon Jack
the Clown. But unlike Halloween Horror Nights quick hits the thrills,
(01:01):
Horror Unleashed encourages lingering, chatting with street characters, grabbing and drink,
and watching the action unfold around you. At HHN the
pace is relentless. You queue, you walk, you scream, you exit,
but here you can take your time. The style of
entertainment is mostly horror events, is momentary, said TJ. Marinarow,
VP of Entertainment, Art and Design. Here you can stay
(01:21):
as long as you want, get to know the characters,
and watch their stories unfold. Follow the links in our
show notes to view the complete guide to the attraction.
Philip Fernandez of The Haunted Attraction Network also wrote a
review of the Universal Horror Unleashed for Attractions Magazine. His sake,
if you love Halloween horror nights, this is your home
away from HHN home. Its vibes over rides with the
(01:43):
same production value, lighting, sound, and sets Universal is known for,
but with the luxury of time, you can linger in
the haunts, chat with characters, and enjoy the atmosphere That
said scares lean heavily on the live actors and jump scares.
You won't find the elaborate animatronics or puppet effects of
wild ah crowds in past years. Hardcore Haunt travelers may
find that the set's beautiful, but the scare tactics are repetitive,
(02:06):
especially given the sixty nine dollars starting ticket price comparable
to HHN Hollywood, which offers more houses and rides but
only run seasonally. Ultimately, whether it's worth it depends on
your proximity, your appetite for the HHN style, and the
appeal of the year round horror hangout for HHN superstars.
It's a haven for casual visitors. It's a polished, immersive
(02:28):
horror experience. Just know you're paying for the atmosphere and access,
not a marathon of different scares. Tickets for a Universal
Horror Unleashed or on sale now on their official website.
Midnight Syndicate composed an original horror score for Universal Horror Unleashed.
Gothic Horror and Haunt music composers Midnight Syndicate have written
an original score for Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(02:52):
The score is Midnight Syndicate's latest collaboration with Universal Entertainment.
They have collaborated with Universal since nineteen ninety nine, when
the band's music first appeared at Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Night.
It's an honor to be part of this next exciting
chapter in Universal's legacy of horror entertainment, said composer Edward Douglas.
Universal Horror Unleashed marks Midnight Syndicate's first custom score for
(03:15):
an attraction, conveying an imaginary scene through music is something
we've been doing since the beginning of Midnight Syndicate, but
capturing someone else's vision for a project always presents a
uniquely exciting set of challenges, said Gavin Coska. Douglas added well,
writing for Universal Horror Unleashed was more akin to writing
a Midnight Syndicate album than scoring a film. We needed
(03:36):
to keep in mind that, like a film score, music
was just one of the cogs in the machine and
needed to seamlessly elevate many elements guests will be experiencing.
Universal is creating a truly immersive horror experience with Universal
Horror Unleashed, where we think horror fans are really going
to enjoy losing themselves. Explore the Massive Hall of Shadows
(03:56):
at Midsummer Scream twenty twenty five. Midsummer Scream and Longbeat
each California took place this last weekend with over fifty
thousand attendees, three hundred and fifty vendors, and presentations from
many local attractions. It's a Halloween paradise. Unique to Midsummer
Scream is the Massive Hall of Shadows, a darkened space
filled with miniature haunted houses. The Haunted Attraction Network was
(04:18):
there opening night to brave the signature attractions Lions Gates,
Gears of Fears, Too, Fear Farm, Eulogy, Collective, Deadly Sins, Sids,
Twisted Toy Box, Straight to Hale's Horror Rama, h and
L's Realm of Horror, The Manner of Deprivation, Lights Out,
the Jack the Ripper Experience, Mister Floats of the Carnievil,
(04:39):
Hall of Souls, Calhoun s Ember Fall Up, Kingdom Apparel,
and Halloween Horror Nite. Mark your calendars because Midsummer Scream
will return August seventh through ninth of twenty twenty six.
Art the Clown takes over Halloween Horrornit's twenty twenty five
in the Maze and beyond the hallowe Ornit's twenty twenty
(05:01):
five panel at Midsummer Scream delivered an in depth look
at this year's Terrifier haunted houses, but two unexpected design
choices stood out. Most guests in Orlando could choose between
a dry path or a symphony of blood and art.
The Clown will be stalking guests throughout the entire event space,
even outside the maze. It's like Where's Waldo but it's art,
(05:23):
said HHN Orlando's senior director of Creative Development, Michael Io.
He might be in a store, but he could be anywhere.
You'll encounter him when you least expect it. Both coasts
will feature these stealthy encounters, with Io conferring that even
the Rip Lounge is not safe. Meanwhile, Orlando's finale for
Terrifier ops the ante with an immersive split path design.
(05:46):
Guests cannot for a dry walk through or lean into
the horror by choosing this symphony of blood, which culminates
in a full drenching under a blood waterfall as art
looms from above. We're not kidding, said Io. This is
our wettest house ever its front row Jurassic Park. Thirteenth
Floor Entertainment previews California Halloween lineup. In a presentation at
(06:08):
Midsummer Scream, Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group previewed their California Halloween
lineup to eager fan. The panel featured Thirteenth Floor Entertainment
Group CEO Chris Stafford, Director of Special Projects Brent Bertolino,
Senior Regional Manager, Amy Holloman, creator of Delusion, and Director
Immersive Entertainment at thirteenth Floor, John Braver and creator of
(06:29):
the Los Angeles Haunted hay Ride and producer at thirteenth
Floor Melissa Carbone. Los Angeles Haunted hay Ride in Los Angeles,
California returns for its seventeenth year, along with fan favorite
elements from the first ten years of the event, as
well as characters in some of the original attraction scores.
This return to form will include full show stops during
(06:50):
the hay Ride, where wagons will pause for choreographed scare sequences,
reinstating a style that made the hay Ride unique in
its early years. Midnight Falls will become more immersive with
new themed foodstalls instead of food trucks. New for twenty
twenty five will be the Midnight Falls Cider Company, an
experience where guests can enjoy applesiter cier donuts, and a
(07:12):
stroll through the mill with various photo ops. A new
denizen will arrive to Midnight Falls, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.
Alvira has taken over as DJ of the local radio station,
so guests can expect to hear her voiceover work throughout
the night. She will transform a former fan favorite maze
into Elvira's Trick or Treat Mayhem, where her brand of
energy will be felt and seen throughout. Delusion is also
(07:35):
relocating to a new venue, the Variety Arts Theater in
downtown Los Angeles, California. This year's event will be called
Delusion Herrowing of Hell and will feature improved lounge experience
complete with a dance club high energy vibe. Attendees will
walk the pagan's path through twisted versions of Dante's Inferno
and endure a reflection of mortal weaknesses in sin. A
(07:58):
new online stor is longlaunched for fans to purchase official merchandise,
including shirts, housewares, accessories, and more. Festival Fright Nights at
Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California will focus on authenticity,
with elements of the event's lord drawn from the history
of the mansion. The event will feature three main attractions,
Masquerade of Shadows taking place in the front part of
(08:21):
the mansion, the Root of All Evil taking place in
the mansion greenhouses, and the Final Descent taking place in
one of the houses basements. There will be an exclusive
invite only experience, Maestro's Masquerade Ball, allowing a select few
the chance to learn a deeper layer of the story.
This event will invite guests into areas of the house
(08:41):
that have never been part of the Halloween activation before.
Magic of the Jack of Lanterns will now be at
a new venue, the South Coast Botanic Garden in Pallos Verdes, California.
The new location will allow them to double the size
of the event. If you came to Wittier Narrows last
year and saw the show, you probably know that we
have a lot of hand carved pumpkins, all different themes,
(09:01):
said Holloman. But now you're going to take that and
walk past these beautiful plants, and there's this display hidden
amongst the trees. So we really think this will feel immersive.
Six Flags Magic Mountain unveils a new maze, scare zones,
and a live show in a presentation at Midsummer Scream.
Six Flags Magic Mountain and Valencia, California shared further details
(09:22):
on new and returning elements for this year's fright Fest.
The park's only new maze for twenty twenty five is Carnage,
set in the city of Green Willow in the nineties.
Carnage introduces guests to a city that's come under siege
by clowns on the night of the City Centennial. The
Maze creates an origin story in the scare Zone City
under Siege, and guests will have the opportunity to become
(09:42):
one of the campus's disciples. Those who choose to be
branded in this insignia will have better interactions with his
generals out in the City under Siege scare Zone. The
Nightmare scare Zone will be rebranded to Nightmare's Reign of Blood.
The Red Queen in her Army have taken over Wonderland.
Guests will encounter the chester Wearcat, the White Rabbit, the
Mad Hatter, Alison Moore Thunderbolt. Ally is a new scare
(10:06):
Zone set in the nineteen fifties rockabilly world, where classic
monsters party hard and then burn rubber. In the afterlife,
guests will come face to face with the Bats, the
Red Ladies, bad Guys, the Demons, and an irate, abominable
Snowman ice cream salesman, as well as characters based on
classic Monsters. Fan favorite margot Rita will get her own
live show, margot Rita's Monster Ball. This is an all new,
(10:30):
high energy, very vibrant, very drag Inspired Experience shared Mark
Wing Senior Creative Supervisor. It will be a live song
and dance show featuring Margot and her daughters, Sapphire Martini,
Bloody Mary and Apple Spritz. As part of the performance,
guests will get to vote for a Queen of the performance. Lastly,
as part of six Flags and Cedior Fair merger, it
(10:50):
was announced that new interactive lanterns previously available at Not
Scary Farm, will also be available at six Flags. The
lanterns will activate experiences throughout the park and they will
work at any Six Flags park offering interactive lanterns. Twenty
twenty five marks the final year for the Grimwar and
Mesmar at Not Scary Farm. During their presentation at Midsummer's Scream,
(11:13):
Not Scary Farm from Buena Park, California announced that twenty
twenty five will be the final year for mazes the
Grimwar and Mesmer introduced in twenty twenty two. That Grimwire
centers around an evil ancient book that transport guests into
the various dark moments in its history. Mesmer, introduced in
twenty twenty one, centers on an evil hypnotist who praise
on the inner thoughts and hidden fears. Of members of
(11:35):
a traveling carnival. More announcements are expected this Tuesday, August
nineteenth that Not Scary Farm and Nightmares Revealed, co hosted
by dragstars The Boulet Brothers. The event will feature a
presentation in the full lineup of Not Scary Farm offerings,
including new mazes, shows, and more. Tickets for the Nightmare
Revealed are currently sold out. Six Flags to charge extra
(11:56):
for haunts during their Halloween season. Six Flags announ plans
to charge for Haunted House access to the legacy Cedar
Fair Parks for twenty twenty five. Entry into the park
during six Flags locations nighttime Helloween events, fright Fest, Scare
of Winds Halloween Haunt Hello weekends and Valley Scare is
included with daytime admission, but access to the haunts will
(12:19):
now require a new ten to thirty dollars Haunt ten
to thirty dollars Haunted Attractions pass and an extra fifteen
dollars for the Conjuring House. Even Gold pass holders must pay,
sparking backlash from fans who see it as a bait
and switch. In this week's episode of the Green Tag Podcast,
Philip and Scott debate whether the new pricing model is
(12:40):
a necessary step forward towards higher quality haunts, or a
misstep that a roads trust. It appears that six Flags
is moving into the separately ticketed model of not Scary
Farm instead of the mix in model of legacy cedar
fair parks. But as six Flags attempts to unify its
Halloween portfolio, we'll guess pay for what they once got free.
(13:01):
And while a company is still bleeding cash, where will
the capitol come from to bring up the quality of
the Halloween events? Hollywood franchises come to fright Fest. Six
Flags Entertainment is bringing blockbuster horror franchises to life at
fright Fest in seven parks across North America. Six Flags Fiesta,
Texas and San Antonio, Texas. Six Flags Great Adventure in
(13:23):
Jackson Township, News, Jersey, Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois,
Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, Six Flags Mexico
and Mexico City, Mexico. Six Flags Over Georgia and Astele, Georgia,
and six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, Texas. Ips come
(13:44):
to the parks, including The Strangers. Chapter one and two
saw the Conjuring Universe Army of the Dead, Texas, Chainsaw
Massacre twenty twenty two, Trick or Treat and No Mi
sigis Bloomhaus's first original Spanish language horror films. Intellectual Properties
will join a vast catalog of haunted mazes with original
(14:04):
themes ranging from demented clowns and fairy tales gone wrong
to possess puppets and twisted holidays. Each park's list of attractions,
maze offerings, and passes will be available on its website.
Ced Your Point in Sandusky, Ohio, Canada's Wonderland in Ontario, Canada,
King's Island and Mason, Ohio, and Carol Winds in Charlotte,
North Carolina will feature a new Screamium experience, The Conjuring
(14:28):
Beyond Fear. Guests will navigate iconic scenes from the new
line cinemas the Conjuring Universe to lock away cursed artifacts
before supernatural chaos is unleashed. Race to restore order while
encountering legendary entities including the Nun, the Crooked Man, and
the Ferryman. Lock Annabel back in her secure box, or
risk catastrophic consequences for the living realm with state of
(14:51):
the Artifacts screamed scream environs, and a series of chilling
interactive challenges in an experience spanning more than twenty minutes,
The Conjuring Beyond Fear will plum guests deeper than ever
before into the Conjuring Universe. This experience requires a separate
entry fee of fifteen to twenty five dollars depending on
the night. Admission is included for Haunted Attractions Express Pass
(15:11):
ticket holders. Freddie Fasbear's Pizzeria is coming to HHN Orlando.
According to a reveal in the latest issue of SFX magazine,
guests at Universal Orlando's Resort Helloween Horror Nights in Orlando,
Florida will be able to dine at Freddy Fosbear's Pizzeria.
While the exact location has not yet been announced, the
article stated that there are plans to transform an established
(15:34):
restaurant for the duration of the event. Universal has already
announced the five nights of Freddy's Haunted House, with animatronic
and puppet figures being designed by Jim Henson's Creature Shop.
This restaurant overlay will allow fans of the franchise to
further immerse themselves within the beloved ip Universal gave fans
a sneak peak at the world of FNaF at this
past weekend's Midsummer Scream in Long Beach, California. A pop
(15:57):
up exhibit included a booth from Freddy Fosbear's Pizzeria, complete
with a life size Mister Cupcake. Hershey Helloween partners with
Shaquille O'Neil. Hershey Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is partnering with
Shaquille O'Neil as part of its Hershey Park Halloween seasonal
event and Dark Knight's Haunted Experience. During the Helloween season
September twelfth through November two, the park's glowing indoor coaster
(16:21):
laugh track will evolve into the shack Alicious laugh Track,
inspired by the shack Alicious excel Gummies. We're taking the
flavor in the fun of my shack Delicious excel Gummies
and blowing it up into a larger than life adventures
than Shaquille O'Neal. From the second you step inside, the
ride brings NonStop energy and laughs. The ride will feature
glowing visuals, amped up audio, and immersed graphic displays that
(16:44):
capture the candies playful spirits, along with a curated voiceover
by Shack. As part of Hershey Park Helloween and Dark Knights,
guests can experience five haunted houses, four scare zones, fifty
rides and attractions, Hershey's Trick or Treat Trail, and more,
all included with Hershey Park Halloween ticket. The seasonal event
will also feature exclusive culinary creations, including the return of
(17:06):
the popular Hershey Park Halloween Tasting Pass and Avenue of
the Afterlife Path with themed food and drink offerings and
live entertainment. Learn more about Hershey Park Halloween and Dark
Knights by following the links in their show notes or
visiting their official websites. SeaWorld San Diego's hallow Scream returns
with reimagined houses and new vile vignettes and scares Zone.
(17:29):
Helloscream returns to SeaWorld San Diego and San Diego, California
for its fifth year, select evenings September twelfth through November. First.
Two of the events five Haunted houses have received complete
revamps for this year's event, with Nightmare Experiment, Sweet Dreams
and Deathwater Buyu Awakening advertised as bringing even more elaborate
(17:51):
scares and detailed storytelling for twenty twenty five, the park
will host eight scare zones, including the all new Overgrowth,
the Nightmarish walk Through, and Overrun green House, where a
botanist mutant plant experiments now feed on passers by. Guests
can also brave two new vile vignettes in some of
the Spirits. An amateur paranormal investigator arrives in Ripper Row,
(18:11):
determined to contact a victim of Jack the Ripper. As
the sands begins, something darker answers instead. In Dully Delightful,
an eerily perfect porcelain doll finally breaks free from her
pristine box and has quite the temper. Guest must watch
out if she has an appetite for dismembering any limbs
that get too close to the Trimee button on the box.
A dark and theatrical monster stomp on Ripper Row will
(18:34):
returned to the stage in its sinister glory. This electrifying
show blend's live thunderous percussion, eerie vocals, and haunting visuals
into a gothic rock spectacle set in the streets of
Victoria in London. Tickets for Hella scream Or on sale now.
Scooby Doo in the Gang or Two appear at Universal
Volcano Bay Nights. The fall edition of Volcano Bay Nights
(18:55):
at Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida returns Friday nights
September fifth through October thirty first. During the exclusive event,
and guests will enjoy after dark access to the picturesque
Water theme park with an array of exciting experiences, including
all new fun with Scooby Doo in the Gang as
they confront villains within the Lavalette Paradise. The event runs
seven pm to eleven pm each Friday. Throughout the event,
(19:17):
guests will enjoy the park's iconic slides and attractions, live entertainment,
specialty food and beverage options, and complimentary snack. A Beach
Bash on Waturi Beach will feature a live DJ and
photo ops with the iconic Mystery Machine, Scooby Doo, Shaggy Filma,
Fred Daphne, and some of the villains from the animated series,
including the Ghost Clown. Tickets are on sale now starting
(19:38):
at ninety nine dollars plus tax per person. The industry
Veterans acquire Evansville's House of Lector and the Old Catacombs
onto attraction Veterans Kevin Stitch and Kevin Elvie, owner and
founder of gorgelore I, have teamed up to acquire the
House of Lector and the old Catacombs in Evansville, Indiana.
Former owner Philip phil Walter tragically paswer away in a
(20:00):
car accident last December. First and foremost, this is about
honoring Phil, said Kevin Stitch. Evansville grew up with his shows.
We're stepping in with deep respect for what we built,
and our goal is simply preserve the legacy, make us
family proud, and give Evansville a quality show. This season,
the team plans to focus on high impact improvements while
keeping the heart of the attraction intact. Twenty twenty five,
(20:22):
we'll see new storying tying the two haunts together in
a narrative universe, new props and scenic enhancements from Gorgalow,
and an overhaul to costuming, makeup, and masks. Kevin Elviy
of Gorgalore said, with the ability to create our own
monsters for this show, we hope to take this attraction
to the next level in the coming years. We are
grateful for the opportunity. We'll start with thoughtful updates this
(20:44):
season then invest for the long term. It's an honor
to help carry Phil's vision forward. Further details, including operating calendar,
storyline reveals, and pricing, will be posted on the coming
weeks on the Haunts official website. Southern Screams returns with
a Mortal at Holy Sees Brewing. Southern Screams in Charleston,
South Carolina is back for its fourth year at Holy
(21:05):
City Brewing with an all new Haunted attraction, Immortal, and
this year, Club Amp is open and everyone's dying for
an invitation to the city's darkest night of decadence. Step
into the pulsing heart of Club Amp, where hypnotic rhythms
echo through the shadows and an insatiable thirst courses beneath
the surface. This exclusive vampire nightclub is dripping in decadence
(21:25):
and danger. Here, more than just drinks are flowing, and
a party doesn't stop until the last drop is gone.
Our dream is thrilled to unveil Immortal, our boldest, bloodiest
concept yet, said Blake Taylor, creative director of Southern scream
Every year we challenge ourselves to deliver a more immersive,
more intense, and more unforgettable experience to our guests. This year,
We've done just that. Immortal will run twenty five nights
(21:47):
September twenty sixth through November eighth, with lights out nights
on November seventh and eighth. Tickets are on sale now,
starting at twenty dollars and ninety nine cents for general admission,
thirty five ninety nine for rip access, and forty nine
ninety nine for Behind the Screams Tour select nights only.
The Hershey Company announces it's Halloween candy lineup. The Hershey
Companies announced their newest lineup of must have treats for
(22:10):
the Halloween season. Get Nostalgic with Reese's pumpkins and miniatures
featuring the Peanuts Gang and the classic and It's a
Great Pumpkin. Charlie Brown unwrapped the magic of Hershey's Harry
Potter chocolates with characters like Dobby and Headwig. Or try
the brand new KitKat counts and creepy shapes perfect for
sharing or hoarding. Jack even joins the party with the
(22:30):
shack Alicious Exel Gummies. Hershey continues to be at the
forefront of Halloween festivities with iconic brands that have become
seasonal staples for our consumers to look forward to year
after years, said Katie DiCaprio, the Senior Manager Halloween at
the Hershey Company. This season, we elevated those signature brands
and created treats like Reese's Mini Pumpkins and KitKat counts
(22:51):
and convenient charable packaging, making it easier for anyone to
enjoy and celebrate together. For every type of candy fan,
whether you're a karamelcona sure Twizzler twister, or chocolate purist,
there's a mix made just for you, including new goodies
like Reese's Mini Pumpkins Unwrapped and Twizzler's Ghost Pumpkins. Spice
lovers can get their fix of Hershey's Nuggets, Pumpkin Spice Latte,
(23:13):
and salty snackers can grab Halloween ready skinny pop and
Pirates Moody packs. Whether you're stocking up for the Halloween rush,
greeting yourself on the go, or simply enjoying the flavors
and shapes of the season, Hershey remains a talk choice
for all your Halloween candy and snacking needs. Some upcoming
events this August through October include Creepy Real oc in
(23:33):
Santa Ana, California September twelfth through fourteenth, and the Sun
of Monster Palooza in Birdbank, California, October tenth through twelve.
Speaker 1 (23:43):
And that's all for the news this week. Today's episode
was produced by me Philip Bernandez, with reporting by Darryl
Plunky post production by David Swope. This hont News Update
is a production of the Haunted Attraction Network and you
can sign up to our weekly newsletter at Hauntattrastion Network
dot com. Report for this episode comes from Ghantum Mighty
and controls. Until next time, Hunters Stay Scary. This is
(24:09):
a Haunted Attraction Network production.
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