More exciting theme park news was announced today, as Universal Studios Hollywood has revealed Fan Fest Nights, an after-hours event debuting in Spring 2025 that is similar to the park’s Halloween Horror Nights, but with a less-spooky vibe.This ticketed event is focused on sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, and anime, featuring franchises like Star Trek, Back to the Future, and Dungeons & Dragons. Details are scant for now, but Universal said the Star Trek part is themed around Star Trek’s optimistic view of the future and what it means to be human. The Back to the Future portion, meanwhile, is based on the 1985 original movie. Finally, the D&D section of the event is of course inspired by the iconic tabletop RPG that has since leapt off the table and onto the screen recently with the Honor Among Thieves movie and the Baldur’s Gate 3 video game.
Fan Fest Nights is described as a “limited-time, after-hours experience” for Universal Studios Hollywood. According to the official description, it will “showcase a dynamic line-up of captivating, immersive in-world experiences along with engaging celebratory activations throughout the theme park, from live entertainment to cosplay, inviting guests to embrace their favorite characters and share their enthusiasm with like-minded fans.”Universal Studios Hollywood boss Scott Strobl said, “We are thrilled about how this breakthrough program will continue to elevate the guest experience in an all-new way.”Fan Fest Nights will include themed foods and new merchandise like collectibles, apparel, and drinkware. There is no word yet on when tickets go on sale or what they will cost. However, fans can sign up on the Fan Fest Nights website to get more details as soon as they’re announced.If you’re in the mood for something spookier, Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights is of course coming back this year–and there will be a Ghostbusters attraction.The announcement of Fan Fest Nights comes just a day after Universal announced a sprawling new hotel, Helios, at its Orlando park for the the introduction of Epic Universe in 2025.