Tampa Bay
Jim Harden

Jim Harden

Sep 24, 2026

25 Comments

Howl O Scream

Tampa Bay, Florida

Options for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld Orlando passes

If you're searching for the perfect way to embrace the spooky season in Tampa Bay, scoring Howl O Scream tickets has become a top local pursuit.

 

Each year, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay transforms after sundown, luring thrill-seekers from across Florida for its legendary Howl-O-Scream event.

 

Fans rave about the chilling atmosphere—think chilling haunted houses, pulse-pounding scare zones, and immersive live entertainment.

 

According to recent reports, demand for Howl O Scream tickets has spiked, especially as the event rolls out fresh haunted attractions and new nightmarish experiences.

 

Those looking to maximize their visit can choose from a variety of passes, with single-night options, Any Night tickets, and group deals available for larger gatherings hoping to make memories together.

 

Locals with annual passes to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay get exclusive access to deeply discounted Howl O Scream tickets—just one of several perks for pass holders this fall.

 

If you're after all-night chills and daytime adventure, the Night & Day Ticket allows for both regular park admission and Howl-O-Scream, giving guests the ultimate theme park doubleheader.

 

SeaWorld Orlando has also entered the haunted fray, hosting its own Howl-O-Scream experience that runs on select nights.

 

The Unlimited Scream Pass is drawing serious buzz, granting unlimited event entry to both parks throughout the entire season.

 

Some brave souls go even further, opting for front-of-line packages to skip long waits at haunted houses and thrill rides, ensuring every minute is packed with terror and excitement.

 

The surge in attendance has brought fresh energy to the local hospitality scene, with hotels near both Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld Orlando reporting a noticeable uptick during event weekends.

 

This year’s lineup promises surprises and bigger scares, leaving many to wonder just how bold they’re willing to be.

 

Whether you're a long-time Tampa Bay resident or driving in from afar, getting your Howl O Scream tickets lets you tap into Florida’s most talked-about fright fest.

 

Website: Howl O Scream

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25 Comments

Join the conversation

  • G
    greg_says· Sep 29, 2:29 PM

    Used to be scarce info on these events so I’m glad for the details. Ready for a scream-filled night!

  • AR
    Allison R.· Sep 28, 12:51 AM

    Always love the fall decorations and lighting at Busch, even if I chicken out on the haunted houses.

  • TM
    T. Morales· Sep 27, 11:12 PM

    I got the Any Night pass after missing my date last time. Way less stress trying to pick the right night with friends.

  • PV
    Priya V.· Sep 27, 10:16 PM

    Anyone know if the group deals cover food too, or just tickets? Trying to budget.

  • DT
    Dustin T.· Sep 27, 10:10 PM

    Not sure about this year’s surprises but last time the haunted circus theme was amazing. Hope for more weird clowns!

  • KS
    Kayleigh Swann· Sep 26, 7:26 PM

    Making this a tradition! 3 years running, always the highlight of my fall.

  • ML
    Marcus Lee· Sep 26, 2:29 AM

    I miss when this event wasn’t as crazy packed. Still fun, but you really feel the crowds now.

  • EZ
    Emily Z.· Sep 26, 1:40 AM

    Went to both SeaWorld and Busch Gardens versions last year. Busch was scarier but SeaWorld had better drinks!

  • VP
    Vincent P.· Sep 25, 10:39 PM

    Props to the scare actors. They stay in character no matter what. That’s talent right there.

  • C
    carol_breezy· Sep 25, 9:36 PM

    Love that tourists are coming for this but hope the locals can still snag tickets! Last minute never works.

  • CL
    Chad L.· Sep 25, 9:24 PM

    Not really my thing but my girlfriend is obsessed. Guess I’ll be standing in line for jump scares again.

  • AT
    Ashlynn T.· Sep 25, 6:48 PM

    Thanks for the run-down! Now I know to look for the Unlimited Scream Pass. Might go all out.

  • LN
    Louie N.· Sep 25, 6:00 PM

    Heard this year is supposed to be the scariest ever. Looking for recommendations on the best haunted house!

  • JG
    Janet G.· Sep 25, 4:33 PM

    Wish they had bigger group discounts honestly. Bringing a soccer team of kids adds up fast.

  • RC
    Rosa Cardenas· Sep 25, 3:37 PM

    Bringing my teens this year for the first time! They begged. Kinda nervous but hoping I can handle the scares.

  • DM
    Don M.· Sep 24, 11:54 PM

    Glad they bring in more entertainment, the live acts are usually underrated. Anyone know if the freakshow is coming back?

  • BR
    Benji R.· Sep 24, 10:35 PM

    If you go for Night & Day, pace yourself. You’ll be exhausted after rollercoasters AND jump scares all day.

  • RO
    Rick O'Brien· Sep 24, 9:21 PM

    Honestly, every year this thing gets pricier but the new haunted houses are usually pretty awesome. Fingers crossed for decent food options too.

  • JS
    Jillian S.· Sep 24, 9:17 PM

    Busch Gardens always nails the creepy atmosphere. The scare zones last year actually made me scream. Can’t wait!

  • A
    andre32· Sep 24, 8:47 PM

    Hotels fill up FAST during Howl-O-Scream, book way early if you want one close by. Learned that the hard way in 2022.

  • LM
    Lisa Mendez· Sep 24, 8:18 PM

    Love that pass holders get discounts! Makes my annual pass feel more worth it every fall.

  • EW
    Erik Wu· Sep 24, 8:06 PM

    Had no idea SeaWorld does this too now. Orlando is a bit of a drive but maybe this year’s the year to try both.

  • GH
    George H.· Sep 24, 6:18 PM

    I went last year and got the front-of-line package. 100% worth the extra bucks if you hate waiting, especially on Saturday nights.

  • MP
    Melissa Pinto· Sep 24, 6:12 PM

    Glad they have group deals. Makes it easier for us to take the whole friend crew. Haunted houses are always more fun in a group.

  • TF
    Tracy F.· Sep 24, 5:42 PM

    The unlimited pass sounds tempting but also like I’d be worn out after two nights. Anyone else tried it?

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