News Summary
Orlando is set to celebrate Halloween over an extended period of 80 days, featuring exciting events for all ages from August 15 to November 2. Key highlights include Spooky Empire, major theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort ramping up their Halloween offerings, and various family-friendly activities across the city. Orlando promises an array of immersive experiences this Halloween season, attracting visitors looking for a memorable celebration.
Orlando will celebrate Halloween for an extended period of 80 days from August 15 through November 2, featuring a variety of events catering to all ages. This year, the festivities will include family-friendly activities, as well as thrilling attractions, making Orlando a prime destination for Halloween enthusiasts.
Among the highlights of the season is Spooky Empire, the largest horror convention in the country, scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 2. This event promises a range of horror-themed experiences, drawing fans from near and far.
Major theme parks in the city will also amp up their Halloween offerings. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando have each planned their own unique attractions and events, prolonging the Halloween experience beyond just a single night.
Walt Disney World Resort
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will kick off on select nights starting from August 15 and continuing through October 31. This event features a new dance party inspired by the upcoming release of “Zombies 4,” in addition to returning favorites like the “Hocus Pocus” Villain Spelltacular and the popular Trick-or-Treat Trail where children can collect candies.
Universal Orlando Resort
Halloween Horror Nights will run on select nights from August 29 to November 2, offering a total of 48 nights filled with fright. This year, the event will introduce 10 new haunted houses, with experiences inspired by classic horror films like “Terrifier” and “Friday the 13th.” In addition, guests can encounter scare zones and live entertainment throughout the park.
SeaWorld Orlando
Families can enjoy the SeaWorld Spooktacular event, taking place on weekends from August 30 until November 2, where attendees are encouraged to dress in costumes and engage with Halloween characters. Another highlight, Howl-O-Scream, will occur on select nights from September 5 to November 1, featuring immersive fear experiences, scare zones, and haunted houses, alongside thrilling night rides. Additionally, the Howl-O-Sprint, a unique nighttime 5K event, will take place on October 2.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort
LEGOLAND will host Brick or Treat Presents Monster Party on select dates from September 20 to November 2, offering themed activities and exciting candy experiences for kids and families.
Family-Friendly Events and Activities
Visitors to Orlando can find numerous family-friendly activities to enjoy throughout the Halloween season. Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar has been transformed into a Halloween pop-up bar with a spooky-themed menu available through October. Meanwhile, Mangoni Italian Market is offering haunted experiences with Halloween-themed decor and cocktails until the end of the month.
Every Wednesday beginning September 24, guests can partake in BOGO Vamp Night Martinis and tarot card readings. The Crayola Experience is set to present “Screamin’ Green Hauntoween” with themed activities running from September 20 to October 31. Additionally, a Petrified Forest event will provide themed trails and immersive experiences from October 3 through November 1.
Themed Dinners and Shows
Orlando will also feature themed dinners and shows during the Halloween season. Pirates Dinner Adventure will present “Vampirates” on select dates from September 25 to October 31. Villatel Orlando Resort plans Halloween Weekends with daily family activities and spooky themed nights extending from September 26 to November 2. Gatorland’s beloved Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins event will return on weekends from October 11 to 26, offering themed entertainment suitable for all ages.
Music, Entertainment, and Neighborhood Festivals
Throughout October, guests can enjoy live performances and themed shows, including productions like “Walking with Ghosts” and the 50th Anniversary of the “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Additionally, the 7th Annual Vampire Ball will be held at Cocktails & Screams on October 30, providing a glamorous Halloween experience.
Various neighborhoods across Orlando will also host Halloween festivals, such as Once Upon a Halloween, Milk Mart Spooky Soiree, and the Gothic Market, ensuring that the spirit of Halloween is celebrated citywide.
Overall Impact
Orlando’s president and CEO, Casandra Matej, emphasized the city’s appeal for those looking for immersive Halloween experiences that extend well beyond a single day. With an impressive lineup of events, Orlando is set to attract visitors eager for a memorable Halloween season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Universal Studios Florida Launches Halloween Horror Nights
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D23 Spooktacular Spotlight Announced for Gold Members
Orlando’s Thrilling Halloween Bar Events Await
Orlando Launches 80 Days of Halloween Festivities
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Additional Resources
- Visitor Orlando: Boo’s & Brews – Best Halloween Bar Takeovers
- Theme Park Insider: Halloween News
- Orlando Weekly: Halloween Horror Nights – Best Iteration in a Decade
- Wikipedia: Halloween
- Travel Mole: Halloween in Orlando
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Halloween
- 1428 Elm: Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando
- Google Search: Halloween celebrations
- Orlando Date Night Guide: Halloween-Themed Bars
- Google News: Halloween 2023 Orlando
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
