Melissa Donovan
SeaWorld Orlando is once again set to become one of Central Florida’s top family Halloween destinations as Spooktacular returns on select dates from August 30 through November 2, 2025. The daytime event, included with regular park admission, invites children and families to wear costumes, enjoy immersive activities, and discover brand-new seasonal surprises.
Designed with younger guests in mind, Spooktacular blends candy-filled trails, lively dance parties, colorful parades, and whimsical encounters into a festive fall tradition that has become a favorite for Orlando families.
What’s New and Returning for Spooktacular 2025
Expanded Trick-or-Treat Trail – Guests can collect candy at 12 themed stations. This year introduces a new line of reusable bags featuring Sesame Street characters and SeaWorld animals, along with an exclusive Pass Member “skull bag” available at Flamingo Gifts. (A bag purchase is required to participate.)
Debut of Spookley the Square Pumpkin – The beloved character makes his first appearance at SeaWorld Orlando, complete with a themed maze that promotes acceptance and kindness.
Reimagined Harvest Maze – A fall favorite returns with a playful Spookley twist, offering fun turns for families to explore.
Mermaid Encounters – Guests can visit SeaWorld’s mermaids in the Key West area for photo opportunities and magical moments.
Pumpkin Garden & Storyteller – A whimsical garden of pumpkin fish sets the stage for seasonal tales shared throughout the day.
Sesame Street Halloween Parade – Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, and Count von Count star in a festive, not-too-spooky parade.
Storytime with Big Bird – Families can gather for Halloween-themed stories at Big Bird’s nest.
Halloween Cookie Decorating – Kids can decorate cookies with the help of Sesame Street friends. Kits are sold separately, no reservations needed.
Interactive Dance Parties – From bubbles floating through the air to scarecrows leading lively moves, these celebrations keep families on their feet.
New Crafts, Contests, and Scavenger Hunts – Families can join in creative crafts, take part in October costume contests, and embark on a brand-new scavenger hunt with festive surprises.
Count von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast – A premium dining experience featuring a buffet breakfast, character meet-and-greets, and photo opportunities.
Teal Pumpkin Program – Guests with food allergies can collect teal tokens along the trail and exchange them for allergy-friendly treats.
Costumes Encouraged – Children and adults are welcome to wear costumes, though masks and hoods are not permitted for guests 13 and older. Face painting is available through SeaWorld artists.
Nighttime Thrills: Howl-O-Scream 2025
When evening falls, SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream returns with 28 nights of fear from September 5 through November 1, 2025. The separately ticketed event transforms the park into a chilling experience featuring:
Five haunted houses, including three brand-new designs
Six immersive scare zones and unpredictable roaming hordes
Pulse-racing coasters like Mako and Pipeline under the cover of night
Sinister bars and high-energy shows that keep the scares going late
Unlike Spooktacular, Howl-O-Scream is intended for mature audiences looking for Orlando’s most intense Halloween experience.
More to Explore with the 2026 Fun Card
Guests looking to maximize their visits can take advantage of the SeaWorld Orlando 2026 Fun Card, priced at $143.99. The pass includes unlimited visits for the remainder of 2025 and all of 2026, offering year-round access to seasonal events, thrilling rides, and animal encounters.
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