Midsummer Scream 2026: Horror Musicals

Midsummer Scream, the West Coast's largest Halloween and horror convention, returns to the Long Beach Convention Center August 7-9, 2026, with the theme 'Horror Musicals.' Now in its tenth year, the event has grown into a three-day destination for haunted attraction designers, horror film fans, cosplayers, collectors, and anyone who lives for the season year-round. The Hall of Shadows, the convention's signature attraction, runs all three days across a massive darkened section of the convention center. More than a dozen fully produced haunted experiences and haunt displays are open inside, included with all badge types, no separate ticket required. It is the largest indoor haunt zone in California outside of the October season itself. The show floor features more than 350 vendors and artists offering horror-themed costumes, seasonal decor, original artwork, vintage collectibles, props, and franchise merchandise. Celebrity guests for 2026 include Matthew Lillard, Barry Bostwick, and Jasmin Savoy Brown. A special 20th anniversary celebration of Repo! The Genetic Opera is scheduled with director Darren Lynn Bousman and actor Bill Moseley confirmed. Panel programming covers haunt design, genre cinema, practical effects, cosplay construction, and industry Q&As. The Long Beach Convention Center is at 300 E Ocean Blvd, minutes from the waterfront. Weekend and single-day passes available online in advance.