If you’re in the market for a free ticket to SeaWorld this year for Halloween, you’re in luck.
SeaWorld may have made its name as a marine park, but today there’s much more going on at its theme parks than killer whales, dolphins, and tropical fish.
While all three (and many more) may still form a huge part of its entertainment lineup, SeaWorld Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio have all branched out into more roller coasters and thrill rides in the years since Blackfish (2013) hit the scene. The controversial documentary raised awareness of the toll living in captivity takes on SeaWorld’s whale residents, sparking heavy backlash in the process.
In recent years, all three of its U.S. theme parks – all of which are operated by United Parks & Resorts – have added new coasters to their lineups, such as Penguin Trek and Pipeline: The Surf Coaster at SeaWorld Orlando, Arctic Rescue and Emperor Dive Coaster at SeaWorld San Diego, and Catapult Falls and Texas Stingray at SeaWorld San Antonio.
The parks have also doubled down on major events, such as the upcoming Howl-O-Scream at all three SeaWorld parks, plus Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
Beginning in late September, this year’s Howl-O-Scream promises a “full night of fear” that features “haunts, thrills, shows, coasters, speakeasies, food, and more!” Similar to Disney’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Oogie Boogie Bash, and Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, it’s ticketed separately to regular day admission.
However, it’s notably cheaper than its competitors, with SeaWorld San Diego currently pricing its tickets at $43.99 per adult.
Some guests may even be able to enter the event for free. SeaWorld San Diego has launched an offer with the San Diego Blood Bank, promising 10,000 free tickets to those who donate blood to the organization.
“Through this valued partnership with SeaWorld San Diego, we hope to collect 10,000 pints of blood this year, which could potentially save more than 30,000 lives in our community and beyond,” said San Diego Blood Bank CEO Doug Morton (via NBC San Diego). “This contribution to our September blood drives will make a major impact, saving and improving the quality of life for hospital patients across Southern California.”
Those who donate blood to SDBB donation centers or mobile blood drives (they must be 17 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in general good health) will get a free ticket as part of SeaWorld’s significant donation to the organization.
This will provide access to “FIVE angry haunts through SEVEN scare zones and SIX vile vignettes.” There are also six themed bars and speakeasies.
SeaWorld has also released a statement on the offer.
“We appreciate and thank all the blood donors throughout the county, and we are honored to be partnering again with the San Diego Blood Bank to offer a special and fitting incentive for those giving blood this spooky season,” said Tyler Carter, SeaWorld San Diego Park president.
“To show our gratitude for making a difference and saving lives, we’re providing an eerily fun night filled with thrills and chills at SeaWorld Howl-O-Scream.”
Are you attending SeaWorld Howl-O-Scream this year?