Busch Gardens, a popular destination for thrilling rides and entertainment in Tampa Bay, is set to reopen on October 13 with an exciting schedule of events and activities for visitors of all ages. This marks the return of one of Florida’s top theme parks after a brief closure, and it promises to be a day filled with fun, adventure, and plenty of Halloween-themed festivities.
Park Hours on October 13
On October 13, Busch Gardens will operate from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, giving visitors plenty of time to explore the park’s rides, shows, and attractions. As the park celebrates its reopening, the evening will also feature the highly anticipated Howl-O-Scream event, which will run from 7:00 PM until 12:00 AM. Howl-O-Scream is a spooky, thrilling experience not for the faint-hearted, with haunted houses, terrifying zones, and monstrous creatures lurking in every corner.
If you’re planning to visit, make sure to arrive early to enjoy a full day of fun before diving into the scares of Howl-O-Scream at night.
Halloween Harvest and Special Events
Busch Gardens’ reopening coincides with its Halloween Harvest, a family-friendly celebration that runs throughout the day. This event features autumn-themed decorations, interactive activities, and treats for all ages, making it a great experience for families looking to enjoy the festive season without the fright factor of Howl-O-Scream.
Additionally, younger visitors can look forward to Kandy’s Sweetactular Celebration and Sesame Street Safari of Fun Halloween, which are both geared toward providing kid-friendly Halloween fun. These events offer trick-or-treating, character meet-and-greets, and seasonal entertainment, ensuring that even the littlest park-goers have an unforgettable time.
Howl-O-Scream: A Night of Frights
For those who love a good scare, Howl-O-Scream is the perfect way to cap off your visit to Busch Gardens. Running from 7:00 PM to midnight on October 13, this separately ticketed event transforms the park into a horror-filled experience with haunted houses, scare zones, and roaming monsters. With its pulse-pounding scares and immersive atmosphere, Howl-O-Scream has become a Halloween tradition for thrill-seekers.
Whether you’re screaming your way through a haunted maze or cautiously wandering through fog-filled zones, Howl-O-Scream will push your fear limits. Be sure to check the schedule and plan accordingly, as this event is wildly popular and can get busy, especially around peak times like Halloween.
Park Attractions and Shows
Aside from the seasonal events, Busch Gardens will have its usual array of attractions ready for guests on October 13. From thrilling roller coasters like Tigris and SheiKra to animal exhibits showcasing exotic wildlife, the park offers a full range of experiences for all interests.
Although schedules are updated periodically, the show lineup for October 13 includes performances across various venues in the park. Whether you’re into high-energy performances, educational animal presentations, or simply want to take in the sights, there’s something for everyone at Busch Gardens.
Make sure to check the official website for showtimes and updated schedules as you plan your visit, since the park’s entertainment offerings can change weekly.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your visit on October 13, it’s a good idea to arrive early. With park hours from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, followed by Howl-O-Scream from 7:00 PM until midnight, you can enjoy a full day of fun and thrills.
If you’re interested in attending Howl-O-Scream, keep in mind that this event requires a separate ticket from regular admission. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance, as the event is in high demand during the Halloween season. For those who prefer a less intense evening, the daytime Halloween Harvest and other family-friendly events are included with your regular park admission.
As always, park hours and schedules can vary, so it’s a good idea to check Busch Gardens’ official website before your visit to stay up-to-date on any last-minute changes or special events.
Final Tips
- Arrive early to maximize your time at the park and experience both the regular attractions and the special Halloween events.
- Check the show schedules ahead of time to plan your day and avoid missing out on any must-see performances.
- Purchase Howl-O-Scream tickets separately if you plan to attend the nighttime horror event.
- Bring the family for daytime fun with Halloween Harvest, Sesame Street Safari of Fun Halloween, and Kandy’s Sweetactular Celebration.
- Stay late if you’re ready to brave the haunted experiences of Howl-O-Scream, which is sure to give you chills until midnight.
With so much to see and do, Busch Gardens’ reopening on October 13 promises to be a memorable event filled with both spooky and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re seeking thrills, chills, or just a fun day out with the family, this iconic theme park has something for everyone this Halloween season.
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