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Los Angeles Life and Style

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood Completes Its Sinister 2026 Line-Up with “Terror Tram starring Art the Clown,” the Return of Cult Horror Classic “Killer Klowns From Outer Space” and More. The Screams Begin on Thursday, September 3.

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Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood Completes Its Sinister 2026 – Line-Up with “Terror Tram starring Art the Clown,” the Return of Cult Horror Classic – “Killer Klowns From Outer Space,” Original Haunted Houses – “KILLceañera: Music by SLASH” and “Dead, Deader, Deadest,” –Along with Special Nightly Appearance by Obsession’s Freaky Nikki, – “The Purge: Dangerous Waters” Stunt Show and Multiple Scare Zones – For the First Time, “Unmasking the Horror Tour Add-On” Behind the Scenes, – Daytime Experience Will be Available for Purchase,Offering Fans an Inside Peek at Select Haunted Houses.

Universal City, CA, August 9, 2026 – Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood adds even more frights to its iconic 2026 line-up including “Terror Tram starring Art the Clown,” the return of fan-favorite haunted house “Killer Klowns From Outer Space” and original houses “KILLceañera: Music by SLASH” and “Dead, Deader, Deadest.” Fiery stunt show “The Purge: Dangerous Waters,” multiple scare zones and street experiences round out the popular event starting on Thursday, September 3 and continuing select nights through Sunday, November 1.

The infamous Terror Tram returns with an all-new host, Art the Clown in “Terror Tram starring Art the Clown.” When the demented killer arrives to the historic Universal backlot with his blood-soaked bag of presents, he realizes it is too early for Christmas and hijacks the tram for his own holiday celebration. Metal band Ice Nine Kills will create new music for the experience, putting a dark twist on classic Christmas songs. In addition, guests who think they escaped Art’s chaos on the backlot may find themselves encountering him in the theme park as he lurks in the most unsuspecting of places.

Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights pays tribute to pioneer heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne in the all-original haunted houses, “Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness,” inspired by his prolific solo career.
Halloween Horror Nights tempts guests to step beyond the threshold of pain and pleasure with all-new haunted houses inspired by the first three Hellraiser films that forever changed the genre. This terrifying new experience will transport fans into the twisted world first brought to life by Clive Barker, where desire, suffering and the unknown collide, beginning Friday, August 28 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Fan-Favorite cult horror classic “Killer Klowns from Outer Space” invades Halloween Horror Nights once again, giving guests another chance to step back in time to the 1980’s and escape a group of murderous alien circus clowns. “Dead, Deader, Deadest,” an original haunted house, takes guests on a tour of an abandoned funeral home where disturbing acts once took place. “The Purge: Dangerous Waters” stunt showreturns to the WaterWorld venue for a fiery quest to survive the night.

Continuing the tradition of showcasing Latin American myths and legends, this year brings “KILLceañera: Music by SLASH” to Halloween Horror Nights. The all-original house centers on the quinceañera of Lola, who turns this rite of passage for fifteen-year-old girls into a festival of death to take revenge on everyone who wronged her. Grammy® Award-winning guitarist and songwriter SLASH composes an original score for the house featuring Spanish guitar and an exclusive song titled “15 Candles.”

For those whose only wish is to meet Nikki, Halloween Horror Nights unleashes the iconic main character from Focus Features and writer-director Curry Barker’s breakout horror blockbuster, Obsession, onto the darkened streets of Universal Studios Hollywood, where guests may find themselves face-to-face with the latest victim of the One Wish Willow’s terrifying curse.

Additionally, horror fans will encounter multiple daunting scare zones throughout Halloween Horror Nights. As they begin their terrifying evening, guests will need to dodge a troop of chainsaw killers in “Hackerz” and scream their way through “Fortnitemares,” an immersive scare zone based on Fortnite’s signature in-game event, which brings new characters and horror-themed gameplay together every year. As guests exit the “KILLceañera: Music by SLASH” house, they will encounter “El Circo de la Muerte,” a scare zone centered on the 1930’s circus and sideshow acts that traveled across Mexico – but with a terrifying twist. Guests will also need to survive “Blood Bog,” where moss monsters roam the bogs and bayous.

Adding to the chaos, fans can stumble upon several chilling interactions throughout the theme park. The ever-popular “Murder of Crowz” returns to Halloween Horror Nights with dad, mom and baby crow flocking to the nest, plus guests will encounter “Shriek of the Banshee,” a wagon run by a carnival barker and his talking skeleton.

These terrifying experiences join previously announced haunted houses, “Sinners” based on Warner Bros’ Pictures Academy Award-winning film, “Stranger Things” from Netflix’s iconic series, “Hellraiser” inspired by the first three films, “Evil Dead Burn” based on the sixth film in New Line Cinema’s Evil Dead franchise and “Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness” featuring the legacy of the metal rock star.

For the first time ever, Universal Studios Hollywood will debut “Unmasking the Horror Tour Add-On,” a behind the scenes, daytime experience for guests who want a closer look at the craftmanship that goes into Halloween Horror Nights. The guided lights-on walkthrough offers unique insights into the creative process behind the “Sinners” and “KILLceañera: Music by SLASH” haunted houses with the opportunity to photograph within select designated areas. Tickets can be purchased here.

Guests can experience select theme park attractions open during the event, including SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, “Transformers™: The Ride-3D,” “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride” and “The Simpsons Ride™.” Also, Death Eaters™, Lord Voldemort’s most loyal followers, will roam “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™,” beginning in the early evening.

Halloween Horror Night at Universal Studios Hollywood ticket options include General Admission, Universal Express Ticket, R.I.P. Tour, Day/Night Ticket and After 2 P.M. Day/Night Ticket. Plus, Early Access Ticket provides entry to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change). Also, the popular Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass allow guests to experience scares again and again throughout the season. Click here to purchase tickets and for Terms and Conditions.

For a deeper dive into the scares, check out the Discover Universal Blog. For more information and to purchase tickets to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/Halloween

Los Angeles Life and Style

Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort Pay Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne in All-Original Halloween Horror Nights Haunted Houses

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Click Here for a Tease into the Sights and Sounds and Here to Purchase Tickets

Universal City, Calif., Orlando, Fla. (July 29, 2026) – Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights pays tribute to pioneer heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne in the all-original haunted houses, “Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness,” inspired by his prolific solo career. Guests can anticipate a wild ride as they climb aboard the Crazy Train for a terrifying trip through his disturbing world of rock and roll, beginning Friday, August 28 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Developed as a living horror movie through the lens of Halloween Horror Nights, this non-traditional memorial to Ozzy Osbourne will span 45 years, transporting guests on a twisted journey though the artist’s outrageous and eccentric solo career in unique experiences across both coasts.

Music from Ozzy Osbourne’s solo albums will guide guests through “Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness,” including The Blizzard of Ozz (1980), Diary of a Madman (1981), Bark at the Moon (1983), No More Tears (1991), Scream (2010) and Ordinary Man (2020).

“Ozzy never stopped pushing boundaries, and he loved anything that gave fans a new way to experience his music and the worlds he created,” Sharon and Jack Osbourne jointly stated. “Halloween Horror Nights has done an incredible job bringing that spirit to life. Walking through these haunted houses, you’ll recognize so many moments inspired by his music and imagination. It’s a wonderful tribute to Ozzy, and we hope fans have as much fun experiencing it as he would have had seeing it come together.”

Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights pays tribute to pioneer heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne in the all-original haunted houses, “Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness,” inspired by his prolific solo career.

At Universal Studios Hollywood, the haunted house transports fans to where it all began, in Birmingham, England, home to John Michael “Ozzy” Osbourne. Starting with “Crazy Train,” Ozzy Osbourne’s most famous song, guests will travel through time from his early childhood to the Osbourne Asylum, inspired by his iconic album Diary of a Madman. As they weave through the decades, the unique iterations of Ozzy’s persona will come to life, from Madman Ozzy and Werewolf Ozzy to the Prince of Darkness, the moniker he earned in the 1970s.

“Ozzy Osbourne didn’t just help define heavy metal—he created a cultural phenomenon that has influenced generations of music, art and horror,” said John Murdy, Executive Producer of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood. “We previously had the privilege of collaborating with Ozzy and Black Sabbath, and this new haunted house is an opportunity to honor his extraordinary solo career. Inspired by all 13 of his albums, guests will journey through the dark, surreal worlds that fueled his music and cemented his legacy as the one and only Prince of Darkness.”

At Universal Orlando, Halloween Horror Nights guests will venture through ancient ruins and foreboding dungeons before boarding the “Crazy Train” for a twisted ride into a realm inspired by the covers of his fan-favorite albums, Diary of a Madman, Bark at the Moon, The Ultimate Sin and Black Rain. Rules by the Prince of Darkness, this fantastical world draws from the heavier sound and sinister imagery that defined the later years of Ozzy’s career, transforming that creative evolution into a horrific journey through his unmistakably twisted imagination.

“We are honored to collaborate with the Osbourne family to create a unique haunted house that celebrates the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne,” said Mike Aiello, Senior Director of Entertainment Creative Development at Universal Orlando Resort. “It was important for us to create an authentic experience that brings Ozzy’s creativity and personality to life in an eerily immersive new way. Fans will discover so many meaningful details, including a few Easter Eggs, as they navigate memorable dark and twisted moments inspired by his iconic musical career.”

New limited-release merchandise inspired by the “Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness” haunted houses, including a T-shirt and an Ozzy acrylic figure which can be added to the separately sold Infernal Carnival collectible display, are now available at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood and will launch tomorrow, Thursday, July 30 at 9am PST on shopUniversal.com.

Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights at Universal Orlando Resort, beginning Friday, August 28 through Sunday, November 1, and at Universal Studios Hollywood from Thursday, September 3 through Sunday, November 1. Event tickets for both theme parks are on sale now, including the popular Frequent Fear Pass options that will allow guests to experience the horror again and again. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Los Angeles Life and Style

Halloween Horror Nights Drops A New Scare Zone Inspired By Fortnite’s Signature Event “Fortnitemares.

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Halloween Horror Nights Drops A New Scare Zone Inspired By Fortnite’s Signature Event “Fortnitemares” At Universal Orlando Resort And Universal Studios Hollywood.

Orlando, Fla., Universal City, Calif – Halloween Horror Nights puts a twisted spin on the global video game phenomenon, Fortnite, with an immersive and thrilling scare zone inspired by Fortnitemares, the game’s signature Halloween event. Debuting this fall at  Universal Orlando Resort beginning August 28 and September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Fortnite is a global ecosystem where players create, compete, and hang out with friends in an always-evolving world. It’s highly-anticipated fall in-game event, Fortnitemares, brings new characters and horror-themed gameplay together every year.

Now, Halloween Horror Nights’ fans will have the chance to “drop in” to the world of Fortnitemares, with an all-new scare zone, featuring ever-evolving and high-stakes environments. Guests will enter Freaky Fields, a Halloween-inspired living battleground overcome with a threatening force. Throughout the scare zone, fans will encounter the Battle Bus along with familiar Fortnitemares characters – plus a few new additions exclusive to Halloween Horror Nights – as they work to escape and claim victory.

New merchandise inspired by the Fortnitemares scare zone — including a graphic tee, decal set, and acrylic collectible piece — is available now at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, and on ShopUniversal.com starting tomorrow, Thursday, July 23 at 9AM PST.

Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights at Universal Orlando Resort beginning Friday, August 28 through Sunday, November 1, and at Universal Studios Hollywood from Thursday, September 3 through Sunday, November 1. Additional experiences for this year’s event will be revealed soon. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Los Angeles Life and Style

Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights Unleashes Evil Dead Burn, Based on the Newly-Released Sixth Film in the Iconic Evil Dead Franchise.

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Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights Unleashes Evil Dead Burn, With All-New Haunted Houses Based on the Newly-Released Sixth Film in the Iconic Evil Dead Franchise, All Tickets Now on Sale for Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, Including Frequent Fear Pass Options for Orlando.

Click Here to Purchase Tickets and Packages

Orlando, Fla., Universal City, Calif (July 21, 2026) – Evil Dead Burn, New Line Cinema’s latest film in the iconic Evil Dead franchise takes shape as the newest Halloween Horror Nights haunted house, beginning August 28 at Universal Orlando Resort and September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

First introduced in 1981, Evil Dead has evolved from an independent cult classic to one of today’s most terrifying horror properties. Blending extreme gore with dark humor, the franchise consistently centers on the Book of the Dead, an ancient text that unleashes supernatural parasitic demons who possess and twist their victims into Deadites.

Inspired by the franchise’s latest installment, Evil Dead Burn, the haunted houses will take guests on a terrifying firsthand journey through the film’s most frightening moments that begin at the Price family’s secluded vacation home in the woods. The nightmare grows more and more fierce as guests venture through the haunted house, encountering ferocious Deadites around every turn before succumbing to the evil forces themselves.

Guests can continue to show their fandom for this year’s haunted house lineup with all-new limited-release merchandise inspired by the unstoppable terror of Evil Dead Burn. This collection includes a T-shirt and hat, along with its own acrylic figure designed for the infernal carnival collectible display. Guests can shop these items at both parks beginning Tuesday, July 21 and the next day at 9 a.m. PST on shopUniversal.com, with additional merchandise emerging later this year.

Starting today, Universal Orlando Resort guests can experience the terror again and again with the purchase of a Halloween Horror Nights Fear Pass, with this year’s options including the Rush of Fear, Frequent Fear, Frequent Fear Plus and Ultimate Frequent Fear Pass. Guests can also take advantage of the enhanced Scream Early add-on ticket, which gives guests admission to Universal Studios Florida starting at 2 p.m. with early access to select haunted houses before the event officially starts. Annual and Seasonal Passholders can save on select single-night August and September event tickets, and Premier Passholders receive one complimentary Halloween Horror Nights event admission (reservations required; subject to availability).

At Universal Studios Hollywood, guests can choose from a variety of ticket options, including General Admission, Universal Express, R.I.P. Tour, Day/Night, After 2 P.M. Day/Night and the Early Access Ticket that provides entry to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change). Plus, the popular Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass allow guests to experience scares again and again throughout the season. Click here to purchase tickets and for Terms and Conditions.

Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights at Universal Orlando Resort, beginning Friday, August 28 through Sunday, November 1, and at Universal Studios Hollywood from Thursday, September 3 through Sunday, November 1. Additional haunted houses and event content will be revealed soon. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS at Universal Studios Hollywood and Orlando, Los Angeles Life and Style, Theme Parks

Hellraiser to be unleashed at Halloween Horror Nights.

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Universal City, Calif., Orlando, Fla. (June 30, 2026) – Halloween Horror Nights tempts guests to step beyond the threshold of pain and pleasure with all-new haunted houses inspired by the first three Hellraiser films that forever changed the genre. This terrifying new experience will transport fans into the twisted world first brought to life by Clive Barker, where desire, suffering and the unknown collide, beginning Friday, August 28 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Halloween Horror Nights tempts guests to step beyond the threshold of pain and pleasure with all-new haunted houses inspired by the first three Hellraiser films that forever changed the genre. This terrifying new experience will transport fans into the twisted world first brought to life by Clive Barker, where desire, suffering and the unknown collide, beginning Friday, August 28 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Since its debut in 1987, Hellraiser has become one of horror’s most influential franchises, introducing audiences to the chilling mythology of the Lament Configuration puzzle box – which, when solved, opens a portal to another dimension inhabited by the ritualistically torturous beings, the Cenobites, and their leader, the iconic Pinhead. Known for blending psychological horror with graphic imagery and philosophical themes of pain and desire, Hellraiser helped redefine supernatural horror and cemented its place as a cult classic that continues to inspire filmmakers and haunt audiences worldwide.

Now, for the first time at Halloween Horror Nights, guests will experience this nightmare personally in haunted houses on both coasts that draw from the first three films: Hellraiser, Hellbound: Hellraiser II and Hellraiser III: Hell on Earth. Additionally, legendary Pinhead actor Doug Bradley will reprise his character and lend his voice to both haunted houses in Hollywood and Orlando.

The terrifying experience begins as guests enter the iconic Lament Configuration puzzle box, unwittingly summoning the Cenobites and opening a gateway to a diabolical dimension where unspeakable horrors await. From the shadowy attic in Frank Cotton’s family home where he was first cast to Hell, to the disturbing Channard Institute where the legendary box lures guests with its promise of forbidden pleasures, fans will encounter haunting moments and settings from the Hellraiser franchise at every turn. Their unnerving journey ultimately lands them in The Labyrinth where Pinhead and the Cenobites lie in wait for new souls to torment for eternity.

New limited-release merchandise inspired by the Hellraiser haunted house, including a T-shirt and a Pinhead acrylic figure which can be added to the separately sold Infernal Carnival collectible display, are now available at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood and will launch tomorrow, Wednesday, July 1 at 9am PST on shopUniversal.com.

Additional event details, including new haunted houses coming to Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, will be revealed soon.

Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights at Universal Orlando Resort, beginning Friday, August 28 through Sunday, November 1, and at Universal Studios Hollywood from Thursday, September 3 through Sunday, November 1. Event tickets for both theme parks are on sale now, with additional products coming soon for Universal Orlando Resort, including this year’s four Frequent Fear Pass options (Rush of Fear, Frequent Fear, Frequent Fear Plus and Ultimate Fear) that will allow guests to experience the horror again and again. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.co

Los Angeles Life and Style

Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights Transports Guests Into the Final Season of Netflix’s Stranger Things.

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UNIVERSAL STUDIOS’ HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS TRANSPORTS GUESTS INTO THE FINAL SEASON OF NETFLIX’S ICONIC SERIES, STRANGER THINGS, WITH ALL-NEW HAUNTED HOUSES DEBUTING THIS FALL AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT AND UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD.
Guests will Journey to the Upside Down and Beyond as They Encounter Iconic Scenes, Characters and Monstrosities from the Series’ Acclaimed Fifth and Final Season.

Orlando, Fla., Universal City, Calif. (June 17, 2026) – The Upside Down returns to Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights as the fifth and final season of the global phenomenon, Netflix’s Stranger Things, comes to life in all-new haunted houses. The premier Halloween event commences on Friday, August 28 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Developed in partnership with Netflix, this year’s Stranger Things haunted house will showcase the most gripping moments from the final season in an authentic, visceral experience that places guests at the center of the ultimate battle to save Hawkins. Fans will confront the terror they’ve seen on screen as they navigate iconic locations and encounter favorite characters—all while evading a host of horrifying supernatural creatures…including Vecna himself.

The harrowing adventure will immediately transport guests to the town of Hawkins, as the barrier between reality and the supernatural is collapsing to unleash an ominous darkness. As visitors make their way through familiar scenes, including the Wheeler House, Hawkins National Laboratory, the MAC-Z military base, as well as the haunting realms of the Upside Down and the Abyss, they’ll be hunted at every turn by Demogorgons and other sinister creatures. With Vecna on their heels, the terror intensifies, pulling guests into an all-or-nothing battle for survival.   

Fans can shop all‑new limited-release merchandise inspired by the Stranger Things haunted house. The parks exclusive collection includes a T-shirt and a mug infused with ‘80s nostalgia, plus a new Stranger Things-inspired acrylic figure that fits into the separately sold Infernal Carnival collectible display – with additional collectibles representing this year’s lineup coming soon to create one cohesive display. These items are available now at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood and will launch tomorrow, Thursday, June 18 at 9 a.m. PST on shopUniversal.com, with more Halloween Horror Nights merchandise debuting in the months ahead.

Stay tuned as additional details about this year’s Halloween Horror Nights lineup will be revealed soon.

Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights from Friday, August 28 through Sunday, November 1 at Universal Orlando Resort, and from Thursday, September 3 through Sunday, November 1 at Universal Studios Hollywood. Event tickets for both coasts are on sale now, with additional ticket options for Universal Orlando Resort being released soon. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Los Angeles Life and Style

Mega Movie Summer Returns to Universal Studios Hollywood, Featuring Entertainment Inspired by Illumination’s Minions & Monsters, Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, Fast & Furious and Wicked.

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Guests can Enjoy the Best Day in L.A. With a Buy A Day, Get A 2nd Day Free Ticket. This Limited-Time Summer Event is Included in Theme Park Admission and Runs Daily Beginning June 13 through Sunday, August 9.

Universal City, California, May 29, 2026 – This summer, Universal Studios Hollywood turns up the excitement with the return of Mega Movie Summer, a fan-favorite seasonal celebration featuring an exciting lineup of entertainment, food and exclusive merchandise inspired by some of the most iconic and upcoming films from Universal Pictures and Illumination. The limited-time event kicks off on Saturday, June 13 and continues daily through Sunday, August 9, 2026, and is included in the price of theme park admission.

Universal Studios Hollywood is also offering guests a chance to experience two of the best days in L.A. with the Buy A Day, Get A 2nd Day Free General Admission ticket. Guests can purchase this ticket online at the Universal Studios Hollywood website and enjoy their second day free, with all visits completed on or before December 16, 2026. The first visit is valid on the guest’s selected date. Blockout dates apply to the second visit. Additional restrictions apply.

Inventive seasonal food and beverage offerings curated by Universal Studios Hollywood’s Executive Chef, Julia Thrash, will complement Mega Movie Summer’s compelling entertainment that will surely offer guests a chance to experience the best summer day in L.A.

At a glance, this is Mega Movie Summer 2026:

  • Illumination’s Minions & Monsters brings the film’s all-new Minions stars, Henry and James, to Super Silly Fun Land near “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” featuring interactive guest experiences and an energetic Minion Dance Party.

An all-new parks’ exclusive Minions & Monsters-themed merchandise collection will be available for purchase, including an all-new Shoulder Pal themed to new monster character Goomi from the film, blind box figures, apparel, accessories and more, just in time to celebrate the theatrical release of the film.

The Minions Cafe willserve an array of vibrant new treats, including Howard’s Berry Lemonade Cupcake and James’ Carbonara, a cavatappi pasta tossed in a garlic cream sauce with pancetta and peas. Despicable Delights offers Irene’s Orange Banana Float, a new delectable frozen beverage.

  • Celebrate The Odyssey at Universal Studios Hollywood with epic, behind-the-scenes moments tied to the groundbreaking cinematic adaptation of Homer’s foundational saga, written for the screen and directed by Christopher Nolan. One of the original ships featured in the film will be on display exclusively along the world-famous Studio Tour. Insightful footage and filmmaker interviews will play on the tram monitors, offering fans a closer look at the making of this cinematic adventure.
  • Universal Studios Hollywood joins Universal Pictures in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Fast & Furious film franchise and its high-speed legacy with a dazzling display of authentic picture cars from the films within Universal Plaza. A rousing hip-hop performance by the Street Racers dance show and a daily DJ will bring a new level of energy to the scene, adding to the excitement as the countdown continues to the eagerly awaited opening of the theme park’s “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” roller coaster this summer.

Fans can also shop for new merchandise celebrating the anniversary at the 101 Exchange store, located adjacent to “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.”

Hollywood & Dine, located near the park’s main entrance, shifts into high gear by transforming into Drift & Dine, offering a Fast & Furious–themed, limited-time menu, that will include such items as L.A. Drift Dog, BBQ Chicken Platter, Fried Elote Corn Dog, BBQ Corn Ribs, Quarter Mile Funnel Cake and Street Cart Watermelon and Pineapple. The Cocina Mexicana restaurant, located adjacent to “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” will offer shareable La Familia Meal, bringing bold flavors and family-style dining to Mega Movie Summer.

  • Guests and fans of Universal Pictures’ global cinematic phenomenon, Wicked and Wicked: For Good, can once again defy gravity with beloved Elphaba and Glinda character meet and greets at the vibrantly themed photo op, located near the DreamWorks Theatre. A selection of Wicked parks exclusive merchandise will also be available for purchase, including Spirit Jerseys, plush and more.
  • As guests prepare to dive into summer, Steven Spielberg’s landmark thriller, Jaws readies to take a bite out of Mel’s Diner with a specially themed menu serving up returning favorites such as the Shark Bait Burger, Lobster Roll, Fish & Chicken Basket and Amity Island Funnel Cake. Plus, Studio Scoops, located on the lower lot, debuts the Hello Kitty Jaws Blueberry Cheesecake Sundae.

A selection of exclusive Jaws-inspired merchandise, including a new Loungefly crossbody bag, apparel and accessories will also be available for purchase.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood joins the celebration of Mega Movie Summer with a lineup of limited-time offerings, including:

  • The impressive 34-foot-tall Trojan Horse from Christopher Nolan’s upcoming 2026 film The Odyssey arrives at Universal CityWalk Hollywood for a limited-time appearance, beginning in July, located in front of the Universal Cinema AMC.
  • NBC Sports Grill & Brew offers bold flavors with its new menu options in honor of Fast & Furious 25th Anniversary, featuring the Full Throttle Teriyaki Burger, Drift Tandem Skewers, Car Meet Platter and a refreshing new cocktail, the Nitrous Boost.
  • The authentic Mexican cuisine destination, Antojitos Cocina Mexicana, serves two new flavorful dishes inspired by Fast & Furious – the Birria Burger and La Familia Platter, plus a refreshing tequila-based cocktail.
  • Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville offers up island vibes with two Jaws-themed items, Beachside Melt and the Forbidden Waters cocktail.
  • Voodoo Doughnut brings a playful twist with a lineup of whimsical Minions & Monsters inspired Doughnuts – the Banana Cream Mayhem Doughnut and the Minions & Monsters Mischief Doughnut.

For more information about Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X and like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook.

Los Angeles Life and Style

Universal Fan Fest Nights Takes Guests on a Whimsical Journey with Food and Merchandise Inspired by the Event’s Signature Experiences, kicks off April 23.

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Universal City, California – Universal Fan Fest Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood serves up an all-new decadent menu and exclusive merchandise inspired by this year’s marquee experiences. Fans will be delighted when the highly-anticipated event kicks off on Thursday, April 23 and continues select nights through Saturday, May 16, 2026. Tickets can be purchased here.

Curated by Universal Studios Hollywood’s Executive Chef Julia Thrash, guests can eat their way through this year’s line-up of fandoms. Here’s a “taste” of what fans can expect from the carefully crafted menu inspired by their respective experiences:

Scooby-Doo Meets The Universal Monsters

Throughout Little Europe, guests can find Scooby Snacks as well as the Super Shaggy Sandwich, a stacked club sandwich sharable with your own Mystery Gang. Additionally, fans can satisfy their monstrous hunger with a Universal Monsters 22” Dog.

ONE PIECE

The popular “Sanji’s Galley” returns with a new, expanded location at Hollywood & Dine. Entrée items include Luffy’s Meat on the Bone, Sanji’s Seafood Fried Rice, Franky’s Loco Moco Burger, Brook’s Spicy Katsu, Jinbe’s Watermelon Salad and Pirate’s Bounty Funnel Cake. For dessert, fans can dive into Luffy’s Straw Hat mousse dome or the fan favorite Chopper Cupcake. Additionally, a selection of themed mocktails will be available at the new Grand Pirate Den, where fans can celebrate their victories after watching the new show.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Guests can head over to the Three Broomsticks for traditional British pub fare, including Scotch Eggs, Welsh Rarebit, Toad in the Hole, Curry Chicken, Classic Sunday Roast and Classic English Fish and Chips. For a sweet treat, don’t miss the new Three Broomsticks Dessert Flight or the Hippogriff Brown Sugar & Oat Trifle.

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon

Fans of the popular Manga and Anime can celebrate “In the name of the Moon” with all-new items this year. A special bento box combo meal will be available, including a spicy tuna onigiri, a Moonlight Love Sparkle drink and Tuxedo Mask’s Raspberry Rose Sandwich Cookie. Nearby, Sailor fans can also find a Moon Scepter Churro and Mystery Box Cupcakes.

Dungeons & Dragons

The fan-favorite “First Roll Tavern” makes its return to the Lower Lot. Gamers can nosh on Cockatrice Hot Wings, Dragon Egg Cheesecake, Gelatinous Cube, Ranger’s Mark sandwich and Beholder’s Brew Fondue as well as a selection of themed alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Must be 21+ with valid Photo ID to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. 

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Guests can enjoy the colorful Yoshi celebration with three specially themed smoothies prepared by Chef Toad, with flavors representing the green, yellow and purple Yoshis. A special drink bottle featuring the Green Yoshi and its signature Yoshi Egg will be available for purchase.

Guests looking to get the most out of their gastronomic experience can purchase the Universal Fan Fest Nights Dining Pass. The specialty pass allows fans to enjoy a total of six items on their visit date for a single price, including two eligible entrée items and four eligible side, snack, dessert or beverage items. The Dining Pass is redeemable at participating food and beverage locations only and is only available during Universal Fan Fest Nights. Additional restrictions apply.

New merchandise, including collectibles, apparel, drinkware, accessories and more, will debut in tandem with Universal Fan Fest Nights, inviting guests and fans to display their fandom during the event and beyond. Hero items include colorful Yoshi character shirts, shoulder pals and a headband, original Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon items, a ONE PIECE Spirit Jersey as well as Scooby-Doo and Universal Monsters cross-over apparel and items inspired by Forbidden Forest: Search for the Hippogriff. Merchandise will be available for purchase inside the theme park, on Universal CityWalk and at https://shopuniversal.com/shop.  Fans are encouraged to cosplay or attend the event dressed in their favorite fandom attire (subject to Cosplay Costume Guidelines).

To kick off Universal Fan Fest Nights, guests can jump start their evening at Universal CityWalk Hollywood with limited time themed offerings at participating restaurants: NBC Sports Grill & Brew (ONE PIECE), Voodoo Doughnut (Scooby-Doo), The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen (Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon) and Vivo Italian Kitchen (DUNGEONS & DRAGONS).

Adding to the adventure, guests will be able to experience select theme park attractions open during the event, including “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge,” “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™,” “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” “Jurassic World—The Ride,” “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” “Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride” and “The Simpsons Ride™”.

For more information visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com and Universal Fan Fest Nights, follow @UniFanFestNights on Instagram, visit Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X.

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Los Angeles Life and Style

Universal Fan Fest Nights Debuts Forbidden Forest: Search for the Hippogriff an All-New Experience in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood.

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Universal Fan Fest Nights Debuts Forbidden Forest: Search for the Hippogriff, an All-New Experience in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood, Select Nights from Thursday, April 23 Through Saturday, May 16, 2026.
Visit Universal Fan Fest Nights to Purchase Tickets; All Experiences and Activations Included Every Event Night.

Universal City, California, April 2, 2026 – This all-original Universal Fan Fest Nights experience, Forbidden Forest: Search for the Hippogriff, at Universal Studios Hollywood dares witches, wizards and Muggles to venture into the Forbidden Forest in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter on a journey to rescue this esteemed magical creature.

Tickets are now available for purchase to attend Universal Fan Fest Nights, which runs for a limited 12-nights only: April 23-25; May 1-3, 7-9, 14-16, 2026.

This exciting experience invites Universal Fan Fest Nights guests to step into an adventure that will take place within an all-new outdoor environment created exclusively for this limited time event.

With guidance from a Hogwarts Magical Creatures professor, guests will embark on an exciting walk-through adventure within the Forbidden Forest where they will encounter an array of magical creatures and familiar beasts, from pixies to owls and spiders as well as the infamous Monster Book of Monsters, as they forge ahead on a daring nighttime mission. A series of obstacles will interrupt their journey, challenging them to summon their bravery and spellbinding skills in order to rescue the Hippogriff.

Universal Fan Fest Nights is an after-hours, separately ticketed event that celebrates the exhilarating world of fandom through immersive and interactive in-world experiences created by the theme park’s renowned and highly creative entertainment team in collaboration with esteemed industry experts. Featuring a spectrum of inspirational categories, Universal Fan Fest Nights will welcome guests to embrace a variety of eclectic worlds that celebrate and elevate fandom favorites alongside live entertainment, character interactions, cosplay, photo opportunities, curated food, beverages and merchandise.

Universal Fan Fest Nights will feature an array of exciting experiences and activations that will be included every event night for guests to enjoy.

Universal Fan Fest Nights will also feature these in-world experiences:

  • Scooby-Doo Meets The Universal Monsters: Mystery on the Backlot. This all-new, immersive walk-through adventure is designed to give guests the sensation of literally stepping into a Scooby-Doo episode. Guests will travel to the destination via Studio Tour tram where they have an exclusive experience to walk along a movie studio backlot alongside Scooby-Doo himself and his pals Fred, Daphne, Velma and Shaggy. The exciting escapade will challenge them to solve a mystery involving the most legendary Universal Monsters in cinematic history, including Frankenstein, Dracula, Bride of Frankenstein and Wolfman, as they navigate portions of Universal’s world-famous outdoor film sets, from the cobblestone streets of Little Europe to the iconic Court of Miracles, the original filming location for such historic Universal horror films as Frankenstein and The Wolf Man.
  • ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show. ONE PIECE returns to Universal Fan Fest Nights, but this time as a live show extravaganza at the WaterWorld show venue. Inspired by the success of the Universal Studios Japan production, ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show will invite guests to a whirlwind performance featuring a cast of ONE PIECE fan-favorite characters. With action, comedy and chaos taking center stage, guests will be transported to the very heart of the world of ONE PIECE – enveloped in friendship, freedom and mayhem.
  • Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon the Miracle: Moon Palace Chapter Deluxe. This exciting Japanese language CG anime short film, which originally debuted as part of Universal Studios Japan’s popular Cool Japan, will gather guests within DreamWorks Theatre to watch a subtitled version featuring heroine Super Sailor Moon as she battles an unforeseen enemy with sinister motives to acquire the Legendary Silver Crystal from Moon Palace’s enchanting ball. With her unwavering spirit, accompanied by audience support, Super Sailor Moon will prove good indeed prevails over evil as she outwits her rival and restores tranquility to the Moon Palace.
  • DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Secrets of Waterdeep. This fan-favorite immersive experience returns due to popular demand, along with some enhancements. Inspired by the World’s Greatest Roleplaying Game™, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS (D&D), this epic walk-through experience will welcome guests and fans to partake in a one-of-a-kind adventure and explore the fantastic world of D&D. Guests will join the Harpers—a heroic spy network—to foil a plot by the legendary beholder Xanathar and save the city of Waterdeep.

This engaging experience features the legendary beholder Xanathar, uniquely created by the masterful puppeteer, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. For over 40 years, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop has been a world-renowned innovator in puppetry, animatronics and digital animation.

  • SUPER NINTENDO WORLD – Colorful Yoshi Celebration. This year’s Universal Fan Fest Nights introduces a vibrant, multi-colored Yoshi celebration in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. This all-new adventure will welcome guests to explore the land, where they will have a chance to meet new, colorful Yoshis who can be found throughout the Mushroom Kingdom.

Tickets are on sale now with a variety of ticket offerings available. Click here to purchase tickets and for full Terms and Conditions. Details for each ticket type are subject to change.

  • General Admission: General Admission ticket to Universal Fan Fest Nights. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • Universal Express: Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including one-time (per day) express access to each in-world experience, ride and attraction. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • Universal Express Unlimited: Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including unlimited express access (per day) to each in-world experience, ride and attraction. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • After 2PM Day/Night: Daytime General Admission to the theme park after 2pm and same day evening General Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights.
  • After 2PM Day/Night Universal Express: Daytime admission to the theme park after 2pm and same day evening admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including one-time (per day) express access to each ride, attraction and seated show during the day, plus one-time (per day) express access to each in-world experience, ride and attraction during the event.
  • 2-Night General Admission: 2-Night General Admission access to Universal Fan Fest Nights. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • Ultimate Fandom Pass: General Admission pass to enjoy for up to all event nights of Universal Fan Fest Nights (based on your selected first visit date during purchase). No blockout dates on return visits. All visits must be completed by May 16, 2026. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • Early Access Ticket: Early access, beginning at 6pm (subject to change), to select Universal Fan Fest Nights in-world experiences prior to event opening. A Universal Fan Fest Nights admission ticket for the same date must be purchased separately.
  • Universal Fan Fest Nights VIP Tour: Enjoy VIP treatment of the event, including a shared, expertly guided walking tour of the in-world experiences, rides and attractions, as well as a gourmet dinner (alcoholic beverages excluded) in the private VIP dining room and complimentary valet parking.
  • Pass Member Special Pricing: Pass Members can take advantage of special online Pass Member pricing on General Admission tickets to Universal Fan Fest Nights when visiting on select event nights.

Adding to the adventure, guests can also experience select theme park attractions open during the event, including “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge,” “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™,” “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” “Jurassic World—The Ride,” “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” “TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride—3D,” “Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride” and “The Simpsons Ride™”.

For more information visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com and Universal Fan Fest Nights, follow @UniFanFestNights on Instagram, visit Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X.

Los Angeles Life and Style

PROLIFIC COMPOSER PRODUCER JASON NESMITH SHOWCASES HIS MUSICAL TALENTS IN NETFLIX’S “STRANGER THINGS: TALES FROM ’85”, PREMIERING APRIL 23.

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Hollywood, Calif.  — Composer and producer Jason Nesmith will compose the theme for the upcoming animated Netflix series “Stranger Things: Tales from ’85”, premiering April 23, 2026.

“Stranger Things: Tales from ’85”,  is a new animated adventure
series scheduled to premiere on Netflix on April 23, 2026.
Developed by Matt and Ross Duffer and show-runner Eric
Robles, focusing on new journeys for the original characters set
between seasons 2 and 3, in Hawkins – during the winter of 1985.


The horrors of The Upside Down are finally fading. But beneath the
ice, something terrifying has awakened. The heroes must race to
solve this mystery and save Hawkins in this new story set in the
Stranger Things universe. Featuring the original heroes (Eleven,
Mike, Will, Lucas, Dustin, Max) battling new, mysterious
creatures. The show is created by Flying Bark Productions and
executive produced by the Duffer Brothers, Shawn Levy, and Eric
Robles.

Jason worked closely with Robles to craft a theme that honors the legacy of the original series while establishing a fresh musical identity for the animated world. The Voice Cast includes voice acting from Brooklyn Davey Norstedt (Eleven), Jolie Hoang- Rappaport (Max), Luca Diaz (Mike), Elisha “EJ” Williams (Lucas), Braxton Quinney (Dustin), Ben Plessala (Will), and Brett Gipson (Hopper). But you really will have to wait to hear the theme, it is under lock and key until its release date.


Jason Nesmith has extensive credits to his name. Recently
Jason has partnered with Ahmet Zappa to co-produce the music
for a new musical feature film, developed from Zappa’s original
concept and featuring songs by Tony-nominated composer
Andrew Lippa. He recently finished the theme for the 2025/26
season of Extra Entertainment News, as well as the theme for
TMZ Live.

Jason also currently composes for Teen Titans Go and
the Jennifer Hudson Show on Fox. He has also co-written a
slasher romantic comedy musical feature with three-time Emmy
Award–winning comedy writer Jason Blackman, which is currently
in development. He has also had the pleasure of being one of 8
people chosen to participate in BMI’s Conducting Workshop in 2019.

In recent years, he has composed scores for multiple
independent films, television movies, and a handful of short films.
Among them is Holly Slept Over, a romantic comedy from Sony
starring Ron Livingston, Nathalie Emmanuel (Game of Thrones),
and Britt Lower (Severance).

For the last 19 years, Jason has worked with Warner Brothers/Tele-pictures as one of the primary composers for The Ellen DeGeneres Show. He has also written the themes for Anderson Live, CNN New Day, The Tyra Banks Show, Judge Jeanine Pirro, Let’s Ask America, Jessy and Jessy Food Tech, Ellen’s Design Challenge, Play with Caution, and
many more. Since its launch in 2013, Jason has composed music
for the Microsoft Surface tablet national commercial spots. He has
also done extensive scoring for documentaries on the History
Channel, Discovery Channel and the National Geographic
Network.

In his rock and roll days, he was signed by music industry legend, Seymour Stein to the iconic Sire Records as a member of 90’s famed Brit pop group Nancy Boy.

Beyond his work in entertainment, Jason Nesmith is actively
involved in philanthropy through The Gihon Foundation, a nonprofit
he runs with his siblings that supports musicians, writers, and artists
across multiple disciplines. Recent contributions have
included Musicares, and Homeboy Industries.


Today Jason Nesmith continues to write and produce for some of
the longest running and most successful TV franchises, and can
be heard literally 24/7, syndicated worldwide, under his own
music company name, JEL Music Group.
www.jelmusicgroup.com

“The first time I can remember hearing music, I
remember thinking, I want to make that. Before I
fully understood it, I was already trying to compose.
When I began learning guitar and piano, writing music
became the natural extension of that curiosity. 

“Over the years I’ve worked across symphonic music as well
as film and television scoring. Writing the theme for
Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 was particularly
exciting because the music helps define the
atmosphere and identity of the show,” Jason Says.

Jason knows music, it is in his blood, he was raised with many
legendary musicians and writers in the hills of Laurel Canyon. As
they say, ‘the fruit did not fall far from the tree,’ and in this case
this tree has bared very talented fruit. Jason Nesmith is not
stopping anytime soon. With his own 2 children he hopes to keep
his family’s legacy out there for the younger generation to enjoy
the music.

Keeping in line with his musical heritage, Jason is just excited to see how audiences will react to this latest upcoming project, and the huge brand of the “Stranger Things,” franchise.


jasonnesmithmusic.com
www.jelmusicgroup.com