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Halloween Horror Nights Eliminates Strict Dress Code, at a Steep Cost to Tourists

Universal Orlando has officially opened the floodgates — tickets for Halloween Horror Nights 34 are now on sale, and as expected, the fan frenzy has begun. But buried beneath the usual excitement of haunted house reveals and scream-packed schedules is a surprising new development that’s already turning heads: guests will be allowed to wear costumes at HHN for the first time ever… but only during one special night.

Guests scared by a monster at Halloween Horror Nights
Credit: Universal

Say Hello to Costumed Chaos — For One Night Only

The change comes via the return of Premium Scream Night, an exclusive, extra-ticketed preview experience scheduled for Thursday, August 28, 2025. It’s a limited-capacity evening that offers early access to the HHN experience before the event officially kicks off on August 29 — and this year, it comes with a unique new perk: costume access for attendees.

That’s right. Universal is relaxing its long-standing costume ban — just this once. While masks are still not permitted, the event will allow guests to come dressed in costume, so long as they follow Universal Orlando Resort’s costume guidelines.

What Is Premium Scream Night?

A group of people react with fear and surprise in a dimly lit haunted attraction. They are pursued by a costumed actor in zombie makeup, emerging from a doorway with eerie red lighting casting dramatic shadows inside of Universal Halloween Horror Nights for HHN 34 coming soon.
Credit: Universal

Launched last year, Premium Scream Night was designed as a high-end way to kick off HHN with reduced crowds and a few added luxuries. For $375 per ticket, guests gain access to the event from 6:30 p.m. until 2:00 a.m., plus:

  • Staggered entry for minimal wait times

  • All-you-care-to-enjoy food and non-alcoholic drinks

  • Complimentary self-parking

  • The chance to be among the first to experience that year’s haunted houses

While the offerings remain mostly unchanged from last year’s debut, the costume allowance is the headline this time around — and it’s sure to draw hardcore fans who have always dreamed of stepping into HHN fully in character.

The 2025 Event Is Taking Shape

Halloween Horror Nights 34 runs on select nights from August 29 through November 2, and with tickets now officially live, the countdown has begun. While Universal has yet to announce this year’s full house lineup, buzz is already building — especially around the Premium Scream Night experience, which now offers an unprecedented level of personalization and immersion.

Is It Worth the Splurge?

Let’s be clear: $375 is no small price tag. But for superfans who want bragging rights, early access, and the ability to live out their horror cosplay fantasies inside the park, Premium Scream Night 2025 might just be the ultimate ticket.

Just be quick — the limited-capacity nature of the event means these tickets won’t last long, especially now that the costume floodgates have opened.


Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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