There’s a certain moment every year when horror fans collectively lean forward… and that moment has finally arrived.
Halloween Horror Nights 35 has officially been announced, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most ambitious and lore-driven years yet. As Universal Orlando Resort celebrates 35 years of screams, this year’s event will transform Universal Studios Florida into the “Infernal Carnival of Nightmares” — a sinister, decaying circus where chaos reigns and fear takes center stage.
The Icons Take the Spotlight
This isn’t just another year. This is an anniversary—and Universal is going big by bringing back two of the most legendary icons in HHN history: Jack the Clown and Dr. Oddfellow.
For the first time ever, these longtime rivals will join forces as the ringmasters of the Infernal Carnival. That alone changes everything.
Traditionally, these two represent opposing forces—pure chaos versus calculated control. But this year’s story flips the script. Instead of battling each other, they’ve realized something even more terrifying: working together might be the ultimate nightmare.
And honestly? That’s a chilling concept.
A Twisted Carnival Comes to Life
The “Infernal Carnival of Nightmares” theme feels like a love letter to HHN history while pushing into new territory. Expect a warped midway filled with grotesque performers, nightmarish attractions, and a heavy dose of original storytelling that longtime fans crave.
Universal is leaning hard into atmosphere this year, blending original horror with nods to past events and possibly some familiar franchises still to be revealed.
First Haunted House Reveal: Chaos Meets Control
The first original house, “Jack & Oddfellow: Chaos & Control,” dives deep into the origins of these two icons.
Guests will step into their shared story, witnessing the evolution of their rivalry and the moment everything changes. The premise alone suggests a highly narrative-driven experience, something HHN has been excelling at in recent years.
Seeing these characters not just appear—but actually interact in a meaningful story—is a huge win for fans who follow HHN lore.
Dates and What’s Next
Halloween Horror Nights 35 will run select nights from August 28 through November 1, giving fans a long season to experience the madness.
Merchandise featuring Jack and Oddfellow is already available, which is usually a strong indicator that Universal is all-in on this year’s icon-driven marketing.
Tickets haven’t dropped just yet—but if history tells us anything, they won’t stay available for long once they do.
And this is only the beginning. More houses, scare zones, and entertainment announcements are on the way.
If this first reveal is any indication, HHN 35 isn’t just celebrating the past—it’s rewriting it.