Universal Fan Fest Nights Returns to Hollywood With Bigger Worlds and Bolder Fandom
Courtesy of Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is dialing fandom up to eleven with the return of Universal Fan Fest Nights, launching its second annual after-hours celebration on April 23, 2026. Running across 12 select nights through May 16, the immersive event invites guests to step directly into the worlds of sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, and anime—this time with an expanded lineup of all-new and returning experiences that blur the line between theme park and live-action storytelling.
Exclusive to Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Fan Fest Nights transforms the park into a playground for pop culture devotees. Every event night includes access to all in-world experiences and activations, from walk-through adventures and live shows to character encounters, cosplay moments, and limited-edition food and merchandise. The event’s creative vision is driven by Universal’s entertainment team in collaboration with industry leaders, resulting in experiences that feel cinematic, interactive, and deeply fan-forward.
One of the most anticipated additions this year is “Scooby-Doo Meets The Universal Monsters: Mystery on the Backlot.” Guests board the iconic Studio Tour tram before stepping onto the historic backlot itself, joining Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Daphne, and Fred to unravel a mystery involving legendary monsters like Frankenstein, Dracula, and the Wolf Man. Set across real filming locations from Universal’s classic horror canon, the experience blends nostalgia, suspense, and playful investigation into one unforgettable journey.
Anime fans will find their treasure with ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show, a high-energy live spectacle staged at the WaterWorld venue. Inspired by the wildly popular Universal Studios Japan production, the show brings fan-favorite characters to life in a whirlwind of action, humor, and heart. Meanwhile, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Secrets of Waterdeep makes a triumphant return, enhanced with new elements and anchored by the awe-inspiring beholder Xanathar—crafted by the legendary Jim Henson’s Creature Shop.
Magic and color take center stage in two beloved lands reimagined for Fan Fest Nights. In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, guests venture into the Forbidden Forest on a guided, spell-casting quest to rescue a lost Hippogriff. Over in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, a joyful Colorful Yoshi Celebration introduces multi-hued Yoshis roaming the Mushroom Kingdom, turning the land into a vibrant, interactive celebration exclusive to the event.
Beyond immersive experiences, select attractions remain open throughout the night, including Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, Jurassic World—The Ride, and Revenge of the Mummy. With ticket options ranging from single-night admission to Ultimate Fandom Passes and VIP tours, Universal Fan Fest Nights is designed for every level of fandom. Tickets are on sale now, and with more announcements still to come, this spring promises to be Universal Studios Hollywood’s most imaginative fan event yet.