Midsummer Scream 2023 creeps into California in July
Halloween is creeping in early, thanks to Midsummer Scream 2023, the world’s largest haunt and horror convention coming to Long Beach, Calif., July 28-30, 2023.
More than 40,000 horror and haunt fans are expected to attend the 6th annual Midsummer Scream event at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, which features sneak peeks at some of the biggest Halloween haunts, panels and celebrities, live entertainment, and the 75,000-square-foot Hall of Shadows.
“Midsummer Scream has become the kick-off of the Halloween season for an ever-growing community of fans of all things spooky,” said David Markland, co-founder and executive director of Midsummer Scream. “We’re proud to feature both the biggest names in horror entertainment as well as hundreds of independent creators, all contributing a dynamic and unique experience for new and repeat guests.”
During the weekend, haunt fans will be (trick-or-)treated to previews of what’s coming this Halloween season from some of the most ambitious haunt producers in the world, including Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights, Six Flags Magic Mountain’s Fright Fest, and Thirteenth Floor Entertainment, creators of the L.A. Haunted Hayride, Delusion, and Shaqtoberfest.
This year’s theme is “Ghoulish Games,” with horror-themed games from video and role-playing games to board and tabletop games, a special game area on the show floor, and game-themed presentations joining the weekend’s already scare-filled lineup.
Midsummer Scream 2023 Activities Include:
- The Screaming Room is presented by Horror Buzz – A curated short-film festival of terror-filled submissions from around the world.
- Panels, Presentations, and Performances – Five stages and multiple breakout rooms offering up-close looks at the best in haunts and horror, including a horror video games panel and a “The Lost Boys” reunion featuring actors Jason Patric, Alex Winter, and Billy Wirth.
- Paranormal Pixie’s Pumpkin Patch – A gore and scare-free zone for “little monsters.”
- Spooky Shopping – More than 350 vendors of products and collectibles perfect for Halloween (or whenever the spirits move you)
- Black Cat Lounge – A cozy spot to take a break from the action and cuddle with feline friends who are all available for adoption
Plus, even more surprises will be announced in the coming weeks. All programming and guest appearances are subject to change and are not guaranteed.
The Hall of Shadows
All Midsummer Scream passes include access to The Hall of Shadows, a collection of scares from some of the best haunted attraction creators in the world that bring a uniquely terrifying fan-convention attraction to (after)life with scares around every corner.
Midsummer Scream After Dark
In addition to attractions, events, and experiences throughout the weekend, Midsummer Scream will also host a special Saturday night party on July 29, 2023, from 8 p.m. to midnight, with dancing, a costume contest, cocktails, and games. “Midsummer Scream After Dark” requires a separate fee of $20 for general admission passholders but is included with the Gold Bat Pass package.
Single-day passes range from $35 for adult admission to $140 for a three-day VIP “Gold Bat” pass. Children under 10 are free with an accompanying adult. More information on passes, plus full details on the show schedule and area accommodations, can be found at www.MidsummerScream.org.
