Six Flags’ Fright Fest is Back, and It’s a Bloody Good Time

There’s a different energy flowing through Six Flags Over Texas these days. Anyone who grew up in the Dallas area likely has fond memories of the park from the ’90s or ’00s, a time when a sense of wonder and thrill was palpable from the moment you walked through the gates. For a while, that spark seemed to fade, as if the park was just trying to keep the lights on. But now, it feels like Six Flags is on a path to rediscovery, and Fright Fest is leading the charge.

Fright Fest transforms Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington on select nights from Sept. 12 to November 2, ushering in weeks packed with thrills and chills. Right from the entrance, you’re immersed in a scene that’s far more than scattered cobwebs—festive decor, massive skeletons, rotting pumpkins and a carnival-meets-creepy vibe make it clear this is a full-scale, haunted overhaul.

Wilma Rivera, the Regional Public Relations Manager for Six Flags Over Texas, emphasizes the park’s commitment to continuous improvement. 

“We always want to make sure that every year we bring something new,” she says. “Fright Fest is a fan favorite. This is probably the most attended event of the year, and we want to make sure that people find something new every year.”

This commitment is evident. Arrive around 7 p.m. for “The Awakening,” a kickoff show where an eerie voice booms through the park and dozens of ghouls descend the steps of the “Scarousel,” a carousel that runs in reverse for added effect. Dead cowboys, neon-clad clowns and sliding zombies with sparking knee pads emerge to give you a taste of the terror to come. It’s a spectacle that will have any horror lover grinning from ear to ear.

Step Inside the Movies: Haunted Mazes

Fright Fest features six haunted mazes, including new attractions based on iconic horror films. A Haunted Attractions Pass is required for entry to these mazes, but the experience is well worth the extra cost.

The Strangers: No Escape

Inspired by the new film series, this maze drops you into a terrifyingly realistic cabin-in-the-woods setting. The production design is outstanding, with lived-in details like refrigerator magnets and patterned wallpaper that create a powerful sense of immersion. The masked Strangers appear from behind corners and inside showers, their stillness making you question if they’re real until they lunge. It’s an atmospheric experience that relies on suspense and jump scares to capture the chilling essence of the films.

The Conjuring Universe

Enter the Warrens’ occult museum, where their most terrifying cases come to life. While the initial section is a bit dark, the maze quickly finds its footing as you move deeper. Crosses turn upside down, the Annabelle doll’s shadow waves from a wall and a priest might just splash you with “holy water.” The grand finale, featuring a fantastically designed demon in a church setting, delivers one of the biggest scares in the entire park. 

The studios are deeply involved in ensuring authenticity. As Rivera notes, executives from Warner Bros. and the team from The Strangers were on-site to see the final product. “They are very particular about what the haunted mazes look like and how well they represent their product,” she explains.

Terror at the Polynesian Palm

If you’re looking for something truly unsettling, this original Six Flags maze is a must-visit. Presented by SKITTLES®, it feels like walking through scenes from David Fincher’s Se7en. Decaying bodies, a Beetlejuice-inspired waiting room and an authentically creepy front desk agent create a goopy, gross and awesome experience. A standout moment involves a group of figures on a bench rising in unison, delivering a perfectly timed scare.

EverSmile Industries

Think ‘50s sci-fi meets demented factory in this new maze presented by M&M’S®. It’s a more interactive experience where you can trigger sirens and air blasts from a security panel. With atomic age families watching old TV sets and a person begging for help from inside an oozy container, it’s more creepy than outright scary, but delightfully weird.

Screams in the Streets: Scare Zones

Even if you don’t purchase a maze pass, the five scare zones offer plenty of frights. 

“We want to make sure that they have the feel of Halloween when they’re walking around,” says Rivera, noting that around 200 actors roam the park each night.

• The Plague: In this new zone, plague doctors wander through a thick fog, and you might even witness a witch “burning” ceremony.
• Trick ‘r Treat: Based on the 2007 cult classic film, this area is filled with werewolves in princess dresses and the iconic Sam character.
• Forsaken Fairgrounds: A twisted carnival of creepy clowns and eerie backdrops perfect for photo ops.
• Outlaw’s Revenge: Undead cowboys are looking for a laugh, with one skeleton humorously following you like a long-lost friend.
• The Last Harvest: In this new zone presented by SNICKERS®, scarecrows and cursed harvesters hunt for souls among dying crops.

Spine-Chilling Spectacles and Sinful Snacks

The highlight of the live entertainment is “Toxicity,” a 25-minute circus spectacle where performers defy gravity with incredible stunts. Skeletons leap from tall platforms, dancers perform acrobatic feats and one woman is even dangled from the ceiling by her hair. It’s a jaw-dropping display of talent and dedication.

The culinary team has also embraced the spirit of the season. Executive Chef Nicolo Vitale explains the balance of creating new, themed items while maintaining quality. 

“We try to utilize products that we somewhat have in house already and push it in a different format,” he says. For him, it’s all about the guest experience. “I go for taste every time. It could be really simple but tastes really good.”

Don’t miss the Hot Honey Chicken Sando at All American Café or the festive Cheesecake Nachos from La Cantina. For a spooky drink, try one of the blood bag cocktails like the “Transfusion” or “Brain in a Bag.” And be sure to grab some themed merchandise, like an Annabelle t-shirt or a Fright Fest shirt designed like a twisted concert tee.

Other Fall Fun, But for the Whole Family

But Fright Fest isn’t the only seasonal offering at Six Flags Over Texas. For families and those looking for lighter fall fun, the park also hosts a variety of family-friendly activities and Oktoberfest celebrations. 

Family-friendly activities include: 

• Trick-or-Treat Trail – where little ones get to collect candy and meet friendly characters 
• Skelebration Dance Party – rockin’ music and themed activities for the entire family
• Costume Contest – the best costumes compete for a chance to win special prizes 
• Arts and Crafts – pumpkin and mask decorating 
• The Spectral Sisters – a jazzy group of gals perform New Orleans-inspired harmonies and spooky humor 
• Limited-edition food and beverages for all ages to enjoy 
• Trick and Treats activities run Saturday and Sunday through November 2, from noon-5 p.m. 

Oktoberfest is also making a return this year. This one-of-a-kind festival celebrates German culture with premium-quality beers, authentic German food, live music, dancing, and some very interesting contests. Oktoberfest runs Saturday and Sunday through November 2, from noon-6 p.m.

Is It Worth It?

No question. Six Flags Over Texas has recaptured its magic with Fright Fest 2025. It’s an excellent bridge into the spooky season, offering a well-balanced mix of cinematic horror, original scares and festive fun. Whether you’re a returning fan or a first-timer, there’s a renewed sense of passion and creativity that makes this event a must-see.

Fright Fest runs on select nights from September 12 to November 2. Tickets and Haunted Attractions Passes can be purchased online on Six Flags’ website. Plan your visit, choose your scares and get ready to scream.