By Charly SHELTON
Universal Studios Hollywood is all set to unleash the monsters of Halloween Horror Nights for 2023, revealing an array of mazes and scare zones that will send shivers down the spines of thrill seekers. The event, running on select nights from Sept. 7 to Oct. 31, promises to raise the bar with its terror-packed line-up.
This year’s mazes (and yes, they have to be called mazes now instead of houses) include “Evil Dead Rise,” inspired by this year’s fifth installment in the “Evil Dead” franchise, as well as original mazes “Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America,” introducing guests to the spine-chilling entities from Latin American folklore, while “Holidayz in Hell” unleashes psychotic seasonal celebrations.
Beyond these most recent announcements, daredevils can expect to be immersed in the macabre as they explore all eight mazes that will leave them trembling in their boots. From surviving against the terrifying Clickers and Bloaters in “The Last of Us” to confronting the evil Vecna in “Stranger Things 4,” the offerings are bound to send chills down the spines of ticketholders.
One of the most anticipated mazes is “The Exorcist: Believer” that plunges visitors into a horrifying battle against a demonic force that has taken hold of innocent lives. “Universal Monsters: Unmasked” unites iconic horror figures like The Invisible Man, Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde, The Phantom of the Opera, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame in a never-before-seen tale of terror set to another brand-new soundtrack by Slash as is tradition at this point with the Universal Monsters mazes.
Returning this year is the legendary “Terror Tram” now titled “Terror Tram … The Exterminatorz.” With Larry Larva at the helm, guests will navigate an insect uprising aiming to exterminate humanity. And once again this year, the Terror Tram will feature a crossover experience from director Jordan Peele’s films “Nope” and “Us.”
To go along with the mazes, thrill seekers can satisfy their appetites with horror-themed culinary entries including the “Stranger Things”-inspired Surfer Boy Pizza, Scoops Ahoy for ice cream creations, and the tantalizing Stellar Bar presented by Stella Artois. Unique “Chucky”-themed barbecue treats will also be offered at Hollywood & Dine, along with a variety of themed cocktails.
Tickets are now available offering various options like general admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, and the premium R.I.P. Tour. A new early access ticket allows early entry to select haunted houses at 5:30 p.m., and the Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass offer endless nights of frights.
Be sure to grab tickets now as the most coveted dates will sell out fast. Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood begins on Sept. 7 and runs through Halloween. For more information and ticket details, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.