At a Glance
- Universal Fan Fest Nights 2026 will run on April 23-25 and May 1-3, 7-9, 14-16 at Universal Studios Hollywood
- Tickets start at $74 for general admission, with tiers allowing park entry from 2 p.m.
- Featured experiences include Scooby-Doo x Universal Monsters, “One Piece,” and Dungeons & Dragons
Why it matters: Fans can book now for the immersive after-hours event that turns the theme park into a playground for manga, sci-fi, and fantasy enthusiasts.
Portals to strange and surreal realms are opening again at Universal Studios Hollywood. The after-hours celebration that debuted in spring 2025 is coming back for twelve select nights in April and May 2026, and tickets are already on sale.
What’s New for 2026
The lineup keeps crowd-pleasers and adds fresh twists. Guests can:
- Team up with Scooby-Doo on the backlot where Universal Monsters roam
- Sail into the “Grand Pirate Show” for a “One Piece” adventure
- Hunt for a wayward Hippogriff in the Wizarding World
- Join the “Colorful Yoshi Celebration” in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
- Return to “Secrets of Waterdeep,” the Dungeons & Dragons quest starring Xanathar, a creature built by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop
Ticket Options
Universal is selling several admission levels:
- General admission – $74, valid only for the evening event
- Afternoon entry tickets – Allow access to the theme park starting at 2 p.m. on the same day
All tickets exclude regular daytime park admission unless the upgraded tier is chosen.
Event Dates
Universal Fan Fest Nights 2026 will be held on:
| Weekend 1 | Weekend 2 | Weekend 3 | Weekend 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 23 | May 1 | May 7 | May 14 |
| April 24 | May 2 | May 8 | May 15 |
| April 25 | May 3 | May 9 | May 16 |
Gates open after normal park hours; exact times will be printed on each ticket.
How to Buy
Passes are available now through the Universal Studios Hollywood website and authorized ticket sellers. Inventory is limited and some nights sold out quickly last year, so early purchase is recommended.
Key Takeaways
- The event runs twelve nights across four spring weekends
- Prices begin at $74, with optional afternoon park access
- Fan favorites like “Secrets of Waterdeep” return alongside the new backlot Scooby-Doo mystery
- Tickets are on sale immediately via Universal’s channels
Universal Studios and News Of Losangeles operate under the same parent company NBCUniversal.
