Originating in Oct. of 1991, Halloween Horror Nights gives horror enthusiasts the chance to immerse themselves in their favorite scary movies. The event is held annually at Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla. 

Running from late Aug./early Sept. to late Oct./early Nov., Halloween Horror Nights  displays a variety of themed haunted houses, live shows and attractions. These activities are based on both horror films and original concepts. 

From the moment you enter the park, you should expect to be approached by scare actors left and right who often carry chainsaws and are dressed in costumes that will have you questioning reality.

Universal does offer alternatives for those wanting to attend Halloween Horror Nights without these terrifying interactions. Walking on the sidewalks of scare zones has been shown to minimize the likelihood of interactions with scare actors, along with detour paths, live shows and restrooms.

For those wanting to completely eliminate the possibility of any interactions with scare actors, Universal’s newly introduced “Deathly Afraid” lanyard is the way to go. You should also consider the possibility that Halloween Horror Nights simply isn’t the event for you.

“As a returning member, I would recommend creating an itinerary prior to your arrival to ensure that you have time for all the houses,” Cole Schanda, Halloween Horror Nights frequent attendee, said.

This year’s Halloween Horror nights features 10 new horror houses; “Can You Survive Five Nights at Freddy’s?,” “The Terrifier Isn’t Clowning Around,” “Evil Doesn’t Stay Dead,” “The Vaults Can’t Save You Now,” “They’re the Outlaws From Hell,” “Welcome to Her Toybox of Terror,” “You’re Dead Meat,” “Call Forth a Legion of Terrors,” “Fear is The Main Event,” and “Maestros del arte y del terror.”

With 10 new terrifying houses to explore this year at Halloween Horror Nights, narrowing down the must see attractions can be daunting. However, these three houses offer uniquely immersive experiences that promise to deliver ground-breaking thrills, chills, and of course, unforgettable memories.

“Can You Survive Five Nights at Freddy’s?” is one of this year’s most popular horror houses. The house  is based off of the well known horror game and movie “Five Nights at Freddy’s,”  which tells the tale of a man starting a new job as a security guard at Freddy’s Abandoned Pizzeria. The job consists of five night shifts. The main objective is to watch the security cameras and stay on high alert for any potential break ins. During the first night, it is made obvious that the job won’t be as easy as it was previously thought to be. 

“I’m definitely most excited for the Five Nights at Freddy’s house, as I absolutely love both the video game and the franchise,” Giselle Corletto, Halloween Horror Nights enthusiast, said. “I can’t wait to see it come to life.”

“The Terrifier Isn’t Clowning Around,” another one of this year’s most popular horror houses, has received much attention from the media due to its intense smells and gross visuals. These were all intentional of course, as Terrifier is known for its extreme gore. This house is based off of the Terrifier movie franchise, which tells the story of a crazy clown who stalks and brutally tortures his victims. Don’t fret, though, as scare actors are not allowed to touch attendees!

“Jason Universe,” based off of the iconic “Friday the 13th” franchise is another popular house being displayed at this year’s event. Dating all the way back to 1980, Jason the killer still manages to make his appearance at events like these. The house is said to feature non-stop scares, detailed environments, frightening encounters and iconic locations featured in the films.

After reviewing all of this year’s horror houses, it is clear that this year’s Halloween Horror Nights will be one to remember.