With the “Unprecedented Events” of 2020 there was a legitimate fear Halloween in the form of our favorite scares would not be returning to the theme parks until 2021. Busch Gardens has relieved us of that fear as they present Howl-O-Scream for its 21st year. As written from their press release”

“The creative production team has been consulting with medical experts and has modified this year’s event content with a focus on open-air scare zones and entertainment, as well as enhanced health and safety measures, while staying true to the core of this fan-favorite   experience. With significantly limited capacity to create plenty of open space, guests will experience the heart-pounding fear of unexpected horrors including freakishly fun themed open-air scare zones throughout the 335-acre park, in addition to Busch Gardens’ thrilling coasters at night.”

This means that for 18 nights, on Fridays through Sundays, there will be screams and scares from Sep 25th – Nov 1st. Just like visiting the park through the day, there will be strict health and safety measures. This includes face coverings by both the scare-actors and guests, temperature screenings and a reduced park capacity, SO RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and recommended to get as early as possible.

WHAT IS NEW AT HOWL-O-SCREAM IN 2020?

1. Fiends
    Fiends, which has always been a favorite at Howl-O-Scream, will return, but in a much larger capacity. The show will take place on its largest stage ever on the Festival Field Stage in Gwazi Field. Bench seating has been set up for a physically safe and distant manner to allow plenty of space for a limited number of guests.

2. Virtual Auditions for Scare-Actors.
    Want to work the event this year. Want to scare someone and have the skills to do it at a safe distant? You can audition this year virtually for a number of frightful roles. Submit your application to www.buschgardensjobs.com.

This will be a very different Howl-O-Scream that keeps the spirit of the original. I am sure more information will be available, but it seems as of now there will be no haunted houses in these times. I am sure they are looking into possible ways of presenting a house with industry experts and health officials, but we will wait and see. Safety is at the priority for Busch Gardens.

For more information, you can visit Howloscream.com where you can make your reservations. There will not be a lot happening for Halloween this year, and Busch Gardens is committed to making something happen for the spook fans. I personally cannot wait to see the presentation.