The Fandoms Unite at Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Fan Fest Nights is officially returning to Universal Studios Hollywood for its second year in 2026. This separately ticketed, after-hours event is designed specifically for fans of sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, and anime. Running for 12 select nights from April 23 through May 16, 2026, the event promises to be even more expansive than its debut year. From the wizarding world to the high seas of anime, there’s a lot to cover in a very limited window of time.
This year’s lineup is particularly impressive, featuring brand-new experiences themed to Scooby-Doo, Harry Potter, One Piece, and Sailor Moon. Whether you’re looking to meet rare characters or explore the park after the sun goes down, planning ahead is the only way to ensure you don’t miss out on the most popular offerings.
What to Expect: New Experiences for 2026
The highlight for many will be the Scooby-Doo Meets The Universal Monsters: Mystery on the Backlot experience. Guests board the iconic Studio Tour trams to head deep into the Universal backlot. Once there, you’ll step off the tram and into a live-action mystery. This year, the story follows the Mystery Inc. gang as they navigate real film sets like Little Europe and the Court of Miracles. You’ll help Scooby, Shaggy, and the rest of the crew unmask the “Phantom Director” while encountering classic monsters like Dracula and the Wolf Man.
Other major highlights include:
- Forbidden Forest: Search for the Hippogriff: A magical trek through the darker side of the wizarding world.
- Jurassic World: A Journey Through the Eras: Encounter performers and dinosaurs in a celebration of the prehistoric franchise.
- Anime Powerhouse: Dedicated spaces and experiences for fans of One Piece and Sailor Moon.
Expert Pro-Tips for Your Visit
Because Fan Fest Nights is a limited-time event, the crowds can be concentrated. To make the most of your ticket, you’ll want to follow a strategic game plan. Universal’s actors are top-tier, often performing improvised sets that bring these worlds to life, so leave a little room in your schedule for these spontaneous interactions.
1. Watch the Clock for Major Attractions
It is crucial to know that not every attraction stays open until the event ends at 1:30 a.m. In previous nights, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge has been known to close as early as 11:00 p.m., with the rest of Super Nintendo World shutting down shortly after midnight. If the Mushroom Kingdom is on your must-do list, head there immediately when the event begins.
2. Plan Your Dining Early
While the event runs late into the night, many food and beverage locations close much earlier. Don’t wait until the final hour to grab dinner. Aim to eat early in the evening so you can focus on the exclusive experiences when the lines are shortest. If you find yourself needing a late-night fix, locations like Lard Lad Donuts in Springfield have historically remained open later than others.
3. The Hollywood Weather Factor
Even if the day was a scorcher, the temperature at Universal Studios Hollywood can drop significantly after sundown. Since many of the Fan Fest experiences—especially the Scooby-Doo backlot mystery—take place outdoors, wearing layers is essential. A light jacket or a themed hoodie will keep you comfortable while you’re exploring the backlot cobblestones.
Why Fan Fest Nights is a Must-Do
This event offers a rare opportunity to step onto legendary film sets and interact with franchises that don’t always have a permanent home in the park. While an Express Pass can help navigate the lines, it doesn’t guarantee you’ll see everything. Focus on your top five priorities first, and treat anything else as a magical bonus. With high-energy performers and deeply immersive environments, Fan Fest Nights 2026 is shaping up to be the premiere event for the Hollywood fandom community.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.