Halloween Horror Nights: Is It Worth the Screams?

Courtesy of WESTCOASTER

By Hanny Cho, Editor-in-Chief

The gates creak open, fog spreads across the streets, monsters hide in the shadows, and the screams start. Universal Studios Hollywood’s Horror Nights has made the theme park into a living nightmare once again, drawing thousands of thrill-seekers eager to face their darkest nightmares.

Running from Sept. 4 to Nov. 2, Horror Nights has built a reputation as being among the most frightening and most costly Halloween events in Los Angeles. Starting at $77 and increasing with express passes, a major question for many fans is whether or not the experience justifies the price of the ticket. Consumers mention the environment, the scare factor, and the overall experience as the main considerations in deciding if the thrills are worth paying for. Despite the high price, it seems that the Horror Nights successfully combine storytelling and fear, standing out for its detailed settings and intense atmosphere, ultimately being a must-see event for those who like thrills.

“I would describe the Horror Nights as very eerie since the decorations and everything played into the dark haunted theme of Halloween,” La Costa Canyon High junior Grace Issarangkuln said. “However, I felt like I should’ve gotten express because I waited in really long lines which took up most of my experience and night.”

Issarangkuln’s reaction identifies two of the most discussed aspects at Horror Nights: the chilling environment that brings customers into Halloween horror and the sharp compromise between standard admission and express passes. While the sets and scare zones create an eerie, film-like setting, the wait in line too often challenges visitors’ patience and leaves visitors wondering if the experience is worth the price.

“The decorations were very cool and interesting since they were able to prepare all of this in the span of two months which impressed me,” junior Jisoo Shin said. “I would recommend Horror Nights to many people because it is a fun way to experience Halloween whether it would be with family or friends.”

Shin’s viewpoint highlights the creativity and effort that goes into Horror Nights. The intricate sets and relatively quick setup increase anticipation for the event. To the majority of the guests, it’s not just about the scares; it’s about experiencing Halloween in an impressive atmosphere that’s social and festive.

“I was shocked at how unorganized the lines were,” UCLA freshman Onyu Park said. “So many people were cutting, and there weren’t nearly enough staff members around to control it.”

The disorganization frustrated many of the visitors. What potentially could have been an exciting night turned into a stressful experience. The long lines grew even longer when people cut in line. With few workers on hand, little was being done to encourage fairness.

However, reviews found on Youtube and Yelp highlighted activities that can be experienced in the Horror Nights like haunted houses, themed scare zones, Terror Tram, and thrill rides the event are worthy that cannot be experienced in other places.

Despite the extensive lines, chaos, and high ticket prices, Universal Studios Hollywood’s Horror Nights still attracts crowds with its immersive scares, detailed environment, and classic Halloween experience. For thrill-seekers, it’s still a mustsee event; however, the majority might pre-book an express pass to optimize the night to the fullest.