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Volcano Bay Nights Returns – Universal Orlando’s Ultimate Fall Event

Volcano Bay Nights is back this fall at Universal Orlando! Ride water attractions under the stars, enjoy live music, meet your favorite characters, and savor tropical treats. Learn how to pair this after-hours water park event with Halloween Horror Nights for an unforgettable Universal Orlando vacation.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I’m all about finding those unique, can’t-miss events that make a Universal Orlando vacation truly special. Well, here’s one I’m thrilled to share — Volcano Bay Nights is making its big return this fall, and it’s better than ever!

volcano bay at night in universal orlando

This after-hours event turns Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park into a tropical nighttime party, complete with glowing lights, a live DJ, character meet-and-greets, and all your favorite water attractions running under the stars. If you’ve never experienced a water park at night, trust me — it’s a completely different vibe, and you’re going to love it.

When and Where

Volcano Bay Nights happens every Friday night from September 5 through October 31, 2025.

  • Park entry starts at 4:00 p.m. so you can get in some daytime fun before the event kicks off.

  • The official after-hours event runs from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

  • Tickets are $99 plus tax, and that includes self-parking. If you’re an Annual Passholder, there’s even a discount.

What’s Included

This isn’t just a couple of rides after dark — Volcano Bay Nights is a full-blown event:

  • Ride under the stars with shorter wait times on TeAwa the Fearless River, the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, Krakatau Aqua Coaster, and more.

  • Live Beach Bash on Waturi Beach with a DJ, limbo contests, hula hoop games, and tropical beats.

  • Character meet-and-greets with Scooby-Doo and the gang, plus DreamWorks favorites like Shrek, Puss in Boots, and King Julien.

  • Complimentary snacks like churro bites with mango or chocolate sauce and pineapple coconut popcorn.

  • Unlimited refills in a Volcano Bay Freestyle Souvenir Cup with over 100 Coca-Cola beverage options.

  • Upgrade options for private cabanas so you can have your own little slice of paradise.

Why I’m Excited for Volcano Bay Nights

I love Volcano Bay during the day, but at night it feels like stepping into a whole new world. The park comes alive with glowing colors, the volcano is lit up beautifully, and there’s an energy in the air you can’t get anywhere else. It’s also a great way to beat the daytime heat while still enjoying everything Universal Orlando has to offer.

The Perfect Pairing: Volcano Bay Nights + Halloween Horror Nights

If you really want to make your Universal Orlando vacation unforgettable, here’s my insider tip — combine Volcano Bay Nights with Halloween Horror Nights.

Halloween Horror Nights runs August 29 through November 2, 2025 at Universal Studios Florida, with haunted houses, scare zones, and live entertainment that’s a must-do for thrill-seekers. I recommend booking a Halloween Horror Nights Vacation Package so you can bundle your hotel stay, event tickets, and early park admission — then add Volcano Bay Nights to your itinerary for the ultimate mix of daytime water fun and nighttime chills.

Let’s Plan Your Fall Getaway

I can help you create the perfect Universal Orlando vacation package that includes:

  1. Halloween Horror Nights tickets and accommodations.

  2. Volcano Bay Nights entry for a tropical after-dark adventure.

  3. Additional park days so you can enjoy Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.

Ready to make it happen?
Book your Halloween Horror Nights Vacation Package today and add Volcano Bay Nights for the ultimate fall trip to Universal Orlando Resort. You’ll get sun, slides, scares, and memories you’ll be talking about for years.

Yes, Help Me Plan This!

Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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2024 Guide to Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights

2024 Tickets, dates and details about Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort

 
 

In 2024, the horror begins earlier than ever before as Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights return on select nights from August 30 through November 3, 2024

Exclusive Offer!

My Agency Exclusive Offer returns this year! Get exclusive rates at Universal’s Royal Pacific Hotel - between October 23- October 31, 2024. This offer includes free Universal Express Pass Unlimited when you include standard theme park tickets. Start planning here >

Halloween Horror Night Dates in 2024

  • September 1, 4-8; 11-15; 18-22; 25-29

  • October 2-6; 9-13; 16-20; 23-27; 30-31

  • November 1-3

Dates are subject to availability, changes, and/or cancellation without notice.

Secure your spot for the screams now. Halloween Horror Nights is one of the most popular events in Orlando and will sell out!

I will help you plan the ultimate fall getaway where you can experience the adrenaline-pumping thrills of Universal’s theme parks by day and the terrifying chills of Halloween Horror Nights at night.

Yes, Send Me a Package Quote ▸

Halloween Horror Night Ticket Prices

Ticket prices for Horror Nights vary by date but start around $83 per person (before tax). The closer you get to Halloween, the higher the ticket price. There are a few ticket upgrades offered, all of them well worth the extra cost, especially the VIP tours.

I highly recommend purchasing the Express Pass add-on, so you can skip the lines. Lines for the haunted Houses can reach 70+ minutes each, meaning you may not get to see them all. See below for add-ons

Weekend parties cost more than weeknights and are often more crowded.

August Ticket Prices

September Ticket Prices

October Ticket Prices

November Ticket Prices

Ticket Add-On Features

These are add-ons you can purhcase

Halloween Horror Nights Express Pass

Get to the fear faster. Skip the regular lines one time at all haunted houses. As an added perk, Express Pass also works at participating rides and attractions. This is an add-on feature to an admission ticket.

The Express Pass add-on starts at $129 per person.

Halloween Horror Nights R.I.P. Tour

This is a guided V.I.P. walking tour of the event. You will be in a group with other guests. Having multiple people in a group helps bring down the cost. Groups are usually maxed out at 12 people. Your party size is limited to 6 people.

Prices start at $369 per person.

In addition to the guided tour you’ll receive:

  • Priority V.I.P. entry to haunted houses while on tour with the R.I.P. Guide.

  • Commemorative R.I.P. Tour credential, lanyard and button

  • Pre-tour reception with light appetizers

  • Universal Express Unlimited ride access (with R.I.P. credential) to skip the regular lines at all participating rides & attractions

  • Reserved seating at select event show(s) during the tour

Halloween Horror Nights Behind-the-Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour

Take a daytime V.I.P. tour for a lights-on look at Halloween Horror Nights haunted houses. Pick from a 3 or 6-house tour. Prices for the tour start at $99 per person.

Every fall, guests from all around the globe brave their worst nightmares coming to life at Halloween Horror Nights – consistently named the world’s premier Halloween event.

In 2024, Universal Orlando promises a chilling new collection of horrifying experiences including 10 all-new movie-quality haunted houses inspired by cinematic greats and eerie original stories created by the twisted minds of Universal’s Entertainment team.

There will be five scare zones filled with hundreds of menacing creatures who will reign the streets of Universal Studios Florida.

And in between the screams, guests can enjoy an energetic live show, fuel up for the next round of scares with sinfully delicious food and beverage inspired by the event’s haunts, shop the latest merchandise at the highly-themed Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store, and enjoy some of Universal Studios Florida’s most exciting attractions.

Halloween Horror Nights Haunted Houses

In 2024 there will be 10 terrifying haunted houses at Universal Orlando. More details will be coming soon.

One of my favorite parts about Halloween Horror Nights is Scare Zones. These are much less intense than those haunted houses and I’m a chicken.

Things to do at Halloween Horror Nights

Scare Zones are areas throughout the park that have a spooky atmosphere. Scare actors roam about randomly and may even get up close and personal with you. There’s music, fog, and maybe a gruesome or disturbing sight or two.

There are no lines to get into the scare zones because they are on the main walkways, you just walk through them on your way to other areas of the park.

Tips for Touring Halloween Horror Nights

1. Arrive Early

To optimize your night of frights and scares, arrive at Universal Orlando well in advance. This will allow you to beat the crowds and make the most of the event's limited operating hours. Similarly, purchasing your tickets online in advance will save you time, and potentially even grant you early entry privileges.

2. Plan Your Route

With several terrifying haunted houses, scare zones, and shows spread out across the park, it's important to plan your route and prioritize the attractions you don't want to miss. Grab a map at the entrance and take note of wait times to get the most out of your night.

3. Utilize Express Passes

Universal Orlando offers Express Passes for Horror Nights, which allows you to skip the regular lines and get straight into the action. Although these passes come at an additional cost, they can drastically reduce your wait times, especially on busier nights.

4. Visit the Haunted Houses First

Haunted houses tend to have the longest queues, so make sure to visit your top picks early in the evening. By doing so, you'll have a better chance of experiencing all the spine-chilling attractions while the lines are still relatively short.

5. Watch the Shows

Universal Horror Nights offers a variety of captivating shows that are worth your time. Take a break from the adrenaline-pumping rides and haunted houses to catch a performance that showcases impressive stunts, energetic dance routines, or even a heart-pounding live show. These shows provide a different kind of entertainment and can give you a breather from the intense horror experience.

6. Stay Hydrated and Energized

With all the excitement and terror around every corner, it's essential to stay hydrated and energized throughout the night. Bring a refillable water bottle, as there are water fountains available throughout the park. Additionally, make sure to grab a bite to eat at one of the many dining options to keep your energy levels up.

7. Dress Appropriately

Universal Horror Nights can be a physically demanding event, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for all weather conditions. Keep in mind that you may encounter some simulated blood, fog effects, or other substances that could potentially stain your attire, so it's best to wear something you don't mind getting a little dirty.

8. Embrace the Atmosphere

Universal Horror Nights is all about immersing yourself in a world of horror and embracing the spooky atmosphere. Engage with the scare actors, take photos, and allow yourself to be fully immersed in the terrifying experience. It's the best way to fully appreciate and enjoy all the effort and creativity that goes into creating this unique event.

Stay tuned to this page for updates as they become available.



Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

Yes I want to work with darren

Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.


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See what I’m up to in the theme parks.

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