Busch Gardens Announces Physically Distant Howl-O-Scream in 2020

TAMPA, FL - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced today that they will press forward with their Howl-O-Scream 2020 Halloween event despite COVID-19 concerns after consulting with medical experts for safety recommendations.

Recent reports suggest that attendance at Busch Gardens and SeaWorld fell by up to 96 percent in the 2nd quarter due to the virus although they claim to be slightly recovering with locals attending the park.

Competitor Universal Studios canceled Halloween Horror Nights earlier this year due to the pandemic.

Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event from daytime operations at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and is available during 18 nights every Friday through Sunday from Friday, September 25th to Sunday, November 1st, 2020.

Tickets start are $29.99. Pass members and fun card holders get a discount on admission.

Park capacity will be significantly limited to create more open space for guests to be "scared, terrified, and thrilled" throughout one of Florida’s largest theme parks. The focus will be on open space scare zones.

The theme park will continue to implement more health and safety rules in light of the pandemic sweeping the state and country.

Currently over 8,500 people have died from in the state of Florida and over 160,000 Americans have died nationwide from COVID-19.

A few added restrictions include:

• Employee and guest temperature screenings: All visitors must undergo and pass temperature screening using the CDC temperature recommendation of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Face coverings: Employees and guests at age 2 or older must wear face coverings while in the theme park. Guests are not required to wear them while eating and drinking, or in designated relaxation areas of the park.
• Physical distancing: Busch Gardens has tried to implement 6 foot physical distancing throughout the theme park and encourages attendees to follow these rules. Contactless payments are available throughout the park.
• Cleaning and sanitation: The number of cleanings and sanitation around the theme park has been boosted in an effort to sanitize the theme park.
• Work and sick policies: Busch Gardens is requiring workers to stay home if sick and says they are following CDC guidelines for self-isolation if a worker is found to be sick.

Guests are strongly encouraged to make reservations early as reservations are required and space is limited. Those interested in learning more can go to HowlOScream.com for information on how to book tickets and attend.

Those interested in working at the event as scare actors can also apply online at www.buschgardensjobs.com - auditions will be held virtually.

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