MidSummer Scream Horror Convention Draws Fans to Long Beach

Universal Pictures is staging a large fan‑first booth at the MidSummer Scream horror convention in Long Beach from August 7‑9, featuring exclusive merchandise drops, panel discussions and appearances by horror icons such as the viral character HamiKuma, the Bride of Frankenstein, Frankenstein’s Monster and Dracula. The schedule includes a “Legends Reimagined” panel on horror dollmaking, a poster signing with Halloween Horror Nights executive producer John Murdy, and a “Terror in the Desert” discussion hosted by convention host Rick West.

The historic Queen Mary, docked nearby, is offering convention badge holders complimentary general admission and a range of paranormal experiences, including the Haunted Encounters Tour, a after‑hours Paranormal Ship Walk, and a Graveyard Tour. Additional attractions include themed cocktails at the Observation Bar, a speakeasy bar, and the newly opened Jackie’s Spirit Shoppe selling ghost‑themed souvenirs. Both the Universal booth and the Queen Mary activities extend the convention’s horror‑themed entertainment throughout the weekend.