News Summary
Universal Studios Orlando is launching ‘Deathly Afraid’ necklaces for Halloween Horror Nights, allowing guests to avoid scare zones for a more enjoyable experience. These $20 necklaces will signal scareactors to steer clear of those wearing them, catering to families and individuals uncomfortable with scares. Though some guests are concerned about the cost, many appreciate the option to avoid frights while still enjoying the park. Universal Studios Hollywood is observing the initiative for possible future implementation.
Orlando – Universal Studios Orlando is set to launch a new initiative for its upcoming Halloween Horror Nights by introducing “Deathly Afraid” necklaces. Designed to assist guests who wish to avoid scare zones, these necklaces will cost $20 and will signal scareactors to steer clear of wearers. This offering aims to provide a more comfortable experience for those unfamiliar with haunted attractions.
Guests who don the Deathly Afraid necklaces can wander through the scare zones without the fear of being targeted by scareactors, allowing individuals to enjoy aspects of the park without engaging in scare tactics. It’s important to note that wearing the necklace does not impact experiences within the haunted houses themselves, where scareactors will not alter their behaviors based on whether guests are wearing these necklaces.
The introduction of these necklaces is part of a broader strategy to enhance guest experiences during the Halloween horror season. This initiative is particularly aimed at families and individuals who may be nervous about the intense nature of scare attractions. By offering an opt-out option, Universal Studios Orlando hopes more guests will venture into the park and enjoy the festive atmosphere while feeling secure.
While Universal Studios Orlando embraces this new offering, Universal Studios Hollywood will not be featuring the necklaces this year. However, they plan to monitor guest reactions to the initiative in Orlando closely. Depending on the success of the necklaces, there is potential for them to be rolled out in Hollywood in future years if demand is sufficient.
The decision to introduce opt-out necklaces has not been without controversy. Some guests have expressed dissatisfaction with the idea of charging for accommodations that relate to personal consent during Halloween events. Critics argue that an inclusive experience should not come at an additional cost, yet many guests appreciate the ability to avoid scare tactics while still enjoying the park’s attractions.
Despite mixed reactions, there are benefits associated with the necklaces that may appeal to visitors. For example, many guests are expected to find value in the necklaces not only for avoiding scare zones but also for potentially reducing wait times on rides. As guests navigate the park with the assurance that they can sidestep intense scare zones, it is anticipated that they may spend more time enjoying rides and other non-scare experiences.
Creative Director of Universal Studios, John Murdy, has commented on the potential transformative effect these necklaces could have on the guest experience this Halloween season. It represents a shift in how the park approaches guest interaction, catering to those who may prefer a less intense experience while still retaining the signature spookiness of Halloween Horror Nights.
As Universal Studios Orlando prepares for the Halloween season, the introduction of the Deathly Afraid necklaces reflects the park’s commitment to offering diverse experience options catering to varying comfort levels. This initiative represents an innovative step towards addressing the varying needs of park guests while enhancing their overall experience during one of the busiest times of year.
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Additional Resources
- Click Orlando: Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Begins
- Wikipedia: Halloween Horror Nights
- Orlando Weekly: SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular Returns
- Google Search: SeaWorld Orlando Spooktacular
- Theme Park Insider: New Initiatives at Universal Studios
- Google Scholar: Universal Studios Orlando Attractions
- Click Orlando: Guide for Halloween Horror Nights 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theme Park
- Theme Park Insider: Upcoming Events at Universal
- Google News: Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights
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.
