Universal Fan Fest Nights 2026: Scooby-Doo, One Piece & More

Universal Studios Hollywood is set to ignite the imagination of fans once again with the return of Universal Fan Fest Nights. This highly anticipated, separately ticketed after-hours event will transform the world-famous theme park into a vibrant celebration of pop culture for 12 exclusive nights in the spring of 2026.

Building on the success of its inaugural year, the 2026 edition promises an even more immersive lineup of experiences. From the shadowy backlots of classic horror to the high-seas adventures of anime, the event is designed to transport guests directly into the heart of their favorite stories and worlds.

The centerpiece of this year's event is a slate of five exclusive, immersive experiences, each crafted to offer unique, interactive adventures for guests of all ages.

The Scooby-Doo Meets The Universal Monsters: Mystery on the Backlot experience is an all-new, immersive walk-through adventure. Guests will board the Studio Tour tram and travel to a movie studio backlot, where they will walk alongside Scooby-Doo and the gang—Fred, Daphne, Velma, and Shaggy. The escapade challenges them to solve a mystery involving legendary Universal Monsters, including Frankenstein, Dracula, the Bride of Frankenstein, and the Wolf Man, as they navigate historic filming locations like the cobblestone streets of Little Europe and the iconic Court of Miracles.

Returning by popular demand, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Secrets of Waterdeep features enhancements for its second run. This epic walk-through invites guests to join the Harpers, a heroic spy network, to foil a plot by the legendary beholder Xanathar and save the city of Waterdeep. The experience features a uniquely created puppet by the masterful Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, an innovator in puppetry and animatronics for over 40 years.

For anime fans, ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show returns as a live show extravaganza at the WaterWorld venue. Inspired by the successful production at Universal Studios Japan, this performance features fan-favorite characters in a whirlwind of action, comedy, and chaos, transporting guests to the heart of the world of ONE PIECE.

In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a new, unique walk-through experience awaits. Guests will venture into the depths of the Forbidden Forest in search of a lost Hippogriff. Guided by a Hogwarts Professor, they will encounter magical creatures and face obstacles that require bravery and spell-casting skills to help the Hippogriff in need.

Finally, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD debuts a vibrant, multi-colored Yoshi celebration. This all-new adventure welcomes guests to explore the land and meet new, colorful Yoshis hidden throughout the Mushroom Kingdom.

Universal Fan Fest Nights 2026 is scheduled for 12 nights only: April 23-25; May 1-3, May 7-9, and May 14-16. The event runs separately from regular park hours, offering a focused, after-hours atmosphere.

A wide array of ticket options is available to suit different fan needs, including:

• General Admission
• Universal Express & Express Unlimited
• After 2PM Day/Night
• 2-Night General Admission
• Ultimate Fandom Pass
• Early Access Ticket
• Universal Fan Fest Nights VIP Tour
• Pass Member Special Pricing

Many of these tickets grant access to the park during the day before the evening event begins. Beyond the exclusive experiences, attendees can also enjoy select park attractions, including Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, Jurassic World—The Ride, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride—3D, Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride, and The Simpsons Ride.

Universal Fan Fest Nights is designed as a holistic celebration of fandom. The event is not limited to its headline attractions; it is an atmosphere of community and shared passion. Guests can expect character interactions with beloved figures from across the featured franchises, offering unique photo opportunities.

The event also encourages cosplay, creating a dynamic and colorful environment where fans can showcase their creativity. To complement the adventures, Universal will offer curated food, beverages, and merchandise themed specifically for the event, allowing visitors to take a piece of the magic home with them.

Universal Fan Fest Nights 2026 solidifies its position as a premier event for pop culture enthusiasts. By blending beloved intellectual properties with innovative, immersive technology and live entertainment, Universal Studios Hollywood creates a limited-time experience that resonates deeply with its audience.

With a diverse lineup spanning animation, anime, fantasy, and gaming, the event offers something for every type of fan. The combination of exclusive new adventures, returning fan-favorites, and the vibrant park atmosphere makes this a can't-miss event for 2026.