5 Things You Can’t Miss at Howl-O-Scream 2024 at Busch Gardens Tampa

It’s that time of year again—Howl-O-Scream is back at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and 2024 marks its 25th anniversary! This year, from September 6 through November 2, 2024, the park will be transformed into a Halloween nightmare filled with haunted houses, scare zones, thrilling rides, and eerie entertainment. Whether you’re a Howl-O-Scream veteran or a first-timer, here are five things you absolutely can’t miss during your visit this spooky season.

1. The New Haunted Houses

This year, Howl-O-Scream introduces new haunted houses, each promising a unique experience. From stepping into a twisted version of Wonderland in Shadows of Wonderland to surviving a deadly Christmas tree farm in Tree Lot Massacre, these new houses and scare zones will surely leave you with goosebumps.

• Shadows of Wonderland: A horrifying version of Alice’s Wonderland, where the Queen of Hearts reigns terror over twisted, bitter characters.
• Sawgrass Slaughter: Legend of the Skunk Ape: This scare zone takes you into the Everglades, where the legend of the Skunk Ape comes to life, with its terrifying odor to match.

Be sure to check them out early, as these attractions are some of the most popular of the event!

2. The Scare Zones

Walking through Busch Gardens, you’ll encounter new scare zones ready to spook you at every corner. The park’s pathways are turned into haunted corridors, each with its theme and ghoulish residents. These areas are open-air but just as terrifying as the haunted houses themselves.

• Little Nightmares: Such a fun yet spooky scare zone!
• Sin City Zombies: Ever wondered what Las Vegas would look like overrun by zombies? Now you don’t have to!

No matter where you go in the park, you will surely encounter terrifying creatures lurking in the fog.

3. Thrilling Rides—In the Dark

What’s scarier than riding Busch Gardens’ coasters? Riding them in the dark. During Howl-O-Scream, fan-favorite coasters like Iron Gwazi, SheiKra, Kumba, and Cheetah Hunt will all operate after sunset, adding a thrilling layer of terror. Iron Gwazi, the world’s fastest hybrid coaster, is an absolute must for adrenaline junkies, and experiencing it in the dark will make it even more intense.

If you’re a coaster fan, don’t miss the chance to feel the wind in your hair as you scream through these wild rides under the cover of night.

4. Spooky Live Entertainment

Howl-O-Scream isn’t just about haunted houses and scare zones; it’s also known for its live entertainment, and 2024 is no different. This year’s must-see show is The Reckoning, a brand-new live performance that mixes horror with music. Returning favorites like Cirque X-Scream will also offer jaw-dropping aerial stunts and daring performances.

And don’t forget to stop by Scar-E-Oke at Gwazi Plaza, where you can belt out spooky versions of your favorite songs. It’s a fun way to take a break from the scares while still soaking up the creepy atmosphere of the event.

5. Witch of the Woods: Rise of the Coven

One of the most talked-about haunted houses making its return is Witch of the Woods, but this time, it’s got an eerie enhancement. Now titled Witch of the Woods: Rise of the Coven, this house is even scarier, with a new storyline where the witch Seraphina has summoned her coven. Together, they have transformed the once-serene forest into a haunted, twisted nightmare filled with poisonous air and dark magic.

For anyone who loves witchy folklore or a good scare in the woods, this is the haunted house to prioritize on your visit.

Event Details:

• Dates: September 6 – November 2, 2024
• Hours: Howl-O-Scream runs on select nights after 7 p.m.

Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event, with tickets starting at $34.99. For more details, including ticket prices and event information, visit Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream.

Don’t Miss Out!

With a thrilling combination of new haunted houses, scare zones, and spooky entertainment, Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream 2024 is shaping up to be the most terrifying yet. Whether you’re coming for the scares or the rides, this 25th-anniversary event will not disappoint. Be sure to mark your calendar and get your tickets before they’re gone—you won’t want to miss the fright of your life!