After weeks of rumors, it was confirmed to the Orlando Sentinel today that guests who visit Universal Orlando Resort's Halloween Horror Nights this year will be encouraged but not required to wear masks inside haunted houses at this year's event. However, in an effort to keep Team Members as safe as possible, masks will be mandatory for performers (including scareactors) and clear vinyl sheets will be used to “in key locations” of all haunted houses to allow for safe interactions.

This is similar to what we saw during 2020's daytime event, where guests were separated from performers by large sheets of plastic, and everyone inside the house was required to wear masks (performers and guests alike). And while the requirement has been since dropped for guests, it looks like the safety protocols that were in place for Team Members last year will be almost identical in 2021. 

This year Universal is celebrating the 30th anniversary year of Halloween Horror Nights with several new and returning haunted houses featuring both new storylines and ones inspired by years past. You can learn more about this year's event here. 

Halloween Horror Nights 2021 will kick off in just a few days on Friday, September 3 and run select nights through Sunday, October 31. All tickets, including Frequent Fear Passes, are on sale now. 

Managing editor of Theme Park Tourist and dark ride enthusiast. Amanda is a lifelong theme parks fan who lives just outside Orlando. When she’s not booking FastPass+ reservations, standing in a queue or eating the latest specialty cupcake, you can find her watching a Marvel movie, reading a book (probably by Neil Gaiman) or singing along to showtunes in her car.   Contact: [email protected]

Submitted by KevinM (not verified) on Friday, August 27, 2021 - 20:28

Cancelling my plans right now because of this

Never miss a special offer

Sign Up Now For Free

Theme Park Tourist is one of the web’s leading sources of essential information and entertaining articles about theme parks in Orlando and beyond.

We are one of the world’s largest theme park guide sites, hosting detailed guides to more than 80 theme parks around the globe.

Find Out More About Us...

Our theme park guides contain reviews and ratings of rides, restaurants and hotels at more than 80 theme parks worldwide.

You can even print them.

Copyright ©2009-2020 Theme Park Tourist, website by Siruss