We now know all of the details behind this year’s Howl-O-Scream event at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, including what’s new and what’s returning. So with that, just like we do every year, we’re here with our guide and thoughts on this year’s event.

First of all, the basics. Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s Howl-O-Scream will run select nights starting September 9ththrough October 31st, 2022, Halloween Night. Visit buschgardens.com for ticket options, as all tickets are now on sale, including add ons such as Quick Queue. If you are already a Busch Gardens member, then Howl-O-Scream is included in the cost of your membership.

Houses

  • Inferno: When death is only the beginning, there’s no end to the scorching terror in sight. As the ground opens to the fiery torments of the dead, your only hope for escape is to journey further into this twisted domain. Descend deep into the pits of Lucifer’s lair to find your way out but beware– the underworld’s demonic horde is yearning for your soul. (Pompeii building – potentially)
  • Death Water Bayou: The sounds of the carnival celebration grow faint as you are beckoned deeper into the bayou by an unseen force. The cursed hands rise out of the swamp, reaching in desperation for their next devilish devotee. Beware of the bayou, or fall victim to the horrors cast by the swamp’s sinister citizens. (Behind Roman Rapids replacing Circo Sinistro – potentially)
  • Nevermore: Chapter 2: A disturbing new chapter in the Nevermore saga has been unveiled, wreaking horror and havoc for the nobility and townsmen alike. The gothic nightmare reads on as tales of torment and terror take frightening form. Explore a world where literature comes to life and Poe’s poignant prose takes on an even darker reality. (Drachen Fire Station – potentially)
  • Returning House – Witch of the Woods: Legend tells of the old Witch of the Woods, who descended upon the ancient village and wreaked havoc. Nobody alive has seen her, but if you’re brave enough to travel the woods at night, it’s said that you can hear her chanting and crying out to the skies. Those who give in to her control become her disciples, and those who don’t…inevitably meet the same fate. But this is only a story, right? (Woods behind Festhaus)
  • Returning House – KILLarney Diner: What say, Daddy-O? Will you make it through your meal before becoming the flavor of tomorrow’s blue plate special? Order’s up: now serving you with a side of demise.(Killarney Show Building)

Terror-Tories

  • Dead A-Head: The bloodied bodies of the beheaded are lurking through the streets of France seeking revenge for their bludgeoned fate. Beware of your surroundings– one wrong move and it could be your head on the chopping block. (France)
  • Gorgon Gardens: Don’t look too closely– staring straight into the soul-less eyes of these serpent sisters leads to venomous consequences and a stone-cold eternity. There’s no escaping these sinister sirens once you’ve been added to their succulent garden of souls. (Italy Gardens)
  • Scary Tale Road: Once upon a time, these fairy tale fantasies lured you to sleep with picturesque places and harmonious heroes. Survival is slim as these childhood icons have been ripped from the pages and are now haunting your dreams. (Rhinefeld)
  • Meat Market: Fresh meat! The denizens of this devious dwelling are serving up delectable delicatessen and gorging on human hors d’oeuvres. (New France)
  • Ripper Row: Don’t wander the streets of Whitechapel after dark – you never know who you might run in to. Murder, mayhem, and mistaken identities abound in the back alleys of this English town. (England)
  • A Roaming Hack Pack: This roaming horde of monsters has one objective— to remind the most confident and unsuspecting guests that there is no place to hide at Howl-O-Scream®. You may hear the roar of their chainsaws coming, or you might not…

Shows

  • Jack is Back: The popular disco dance celebration returns to Ireland village with pumpkins, scarecrows and Howl-O-Scream’s® legendary character, Jack.
  • Phantoms of the Festhaus: This isn’t your typical singing contest. Join the living audience as a NEW lineup of your favorite ghouls take on spooky hits, and the winner is put to vote. The more spirited the audience is, the more exciting the competition is.
  • Skeletones: This lively brass quartet leaves nothing but bones on San Marco stage in Festa Italia. Take a break from the scares with this spooky ensemble.
  • Monster Stomp on Ripper Row: This modern rock and rhythm spectacular features Jack the Ripper like you’ve never seen him before. Electrifying percussion, dynamic dance and sensational singing return to Globe Theatre stage in a pulse-pounding revue. (Opens September 29)