The Dark Arts at Hogwarts has returned to Universal Studios Hollywood, but it’s a very different experience compared to the Dark Arts at Universal Orlando Resort.

Here’s a breakdown on how The Dark Arts at Hogwarts seasonal offering differs on each coast.

What is Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle?

Hogwarts Castle is transformed into a magical projection-mapping show that shows the castle swarmed by Lord Voldemort, including Death Eaters, Dementors, mountain trolls, Inferi, and Aragog the Acromantula. This light show show is a seasonal at both Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood.

“As darkness falls on Hogwarts castle, Dementors, Death Eaters and other unspeakable creatures cloak the stone walls in sinister images and fiendish magic. Chaos erupts as the image of Lord Voldemort joins the fray, summoning his cruel legions to swarm the castle. Stare in awe at the castle’s takeover during this ominous spectacle of light and music.”

Universal Studio Hollywood’s Dark Arts Light Show:

• The Dark Arts light show has returned after a 4 year hiatus

• This is the 1st time it’s ran before spooky season (Sept-Oct)

• Light show is offered as part of your regular admission ticket during select times this spring through summer 2023

• Although both Hogwarts castle light shows tell the exact same story, ONlY Universal Hollywood has a Patronus drone finale (when not too windy)

When Can You See The Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle in Hollywood?

Runs from dusk to park close on:

• March 25 - April 9

•  May 27 - May 29

• June 17 - Aug 1st

Universal Hollywood’s Dark Arts Castle light show differs from the Death Eater Encounter Hollywood offered last year during HHN nights (Separately ticketed event)

This means that during the Spring- Summer dates: the Dark Arts light show is only running— Universal Studios Hollywood WON’T have Death Eaters.

Universal Orlando’s Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle:

• Dark Arts season is offered during a way longer period of time

• NO Patronus finale via Drones during the Orlando Castle light show 

• Included in your regular admission ticket as long as you have access to Universal's Islands of Adventure

• Death Eaters roam the lower part of Hogmeade once dark out

• Death Eaters go inside Honeydukes periodically

• On nights that Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle plays, there is  a preshow located in between the corner of Honeydukes and The Three Broomsticks. The Death Esters make a grand entrance with fog and  green lighting. This preshow happens about every 20ish minutes

When Can You See The Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle in Orlando?

Dark Arts season at Universal Orlando Resort historically begins mid September (16-18) & runs dusk to park close most nights through October 31st.