‘Scream’ Celebrates 30 Years at Midsummer Scream

There are horror anniversaries, and then there are Woodsboro reunions. Midsummer Scream has joined forces with Paramount Scares to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Wes Craven’s Scream, bringing together original cast members, the unmistakable voice behind Ghostface and acclaimed composer Marco Beltrami for what is shaping up to be one of the convention’s biggest attractions this August.

Taking place at the Long Beach Convention Center from 7 to 9 August, the world’s largest Halloween and horror convention will dedicate an entire weekend to the landmark slasher, which helped redefine the genre when it arrived in 1996. Alongside hundreds of exhibitors, haunted attractions and live presentations spread across seven stages, attendees will be able to revisit Woodsboro through a packed programme of anniversary events.

Leading the celebrations is an impressive reunion featuring several of the film’s original stars. Matthew Lillard, Skeet Ulrich, David Arquette and Jamie Kennedy are all confirmed to appear for autograph sessions, selfies and professional photo opportunities, joined by stunt performer Lee Waddell, who portrayed Ghostface on screen, and Joseph Whipp, remembered by fans as Sheriff Burke.

One of the weekend’s more unusual experiences centres on Roger L. Jackson, whose chilling vocal performance gave Ghostface one of horror’s most recognisable voices. A limited number of visitors will be able to book a private meet-and-greet with Jackson, complete with the opportunity to record personalised voicemail messages or audio greetings.

The partnership with Paramount Scares also extends beyond celebrity appearances. The convention floor will feature a recreation of Bradley Video, the fictional video rental shop from Scream, allowing visitors to step inside one of the film’s memorable locations. Staff from Fangoria will be on hand throughout the activation, while exclusive merchandise, Ghostface photo opportunities and giveaways will also be available.

Panels celebrating the franchise form another major part of the weekend. On Saturday, 8 August, Matthew Lillard will host the official Scream 30th Anniversary Panel, promising special guests and a look back at the enduring legacy of the series.

The following day shifts attention to the soundscape behind the films with The Sound of Scream. Marco Beltrami joins Roger L. Jackson, producer Marianne Maddalena, music supervisor Ed Gerrard and Ice Nine Kills frontman Spencer Charnas for a discussion exploring the music, voice work and audio design that helped shape the franchise’s identity.

Collectors will also have the chance to pick up an exclusive Midsummer Scream edition of Fangoria, produced especially for the event. Featuring a Ghostface cover, the special issue includes retrospective features and coverage of the convention’s 2026 guest line-up.

Demand for the event is already proving strong. Weekend and Gold Bat VIP passes have sold out, with organisers advising that remaining single-day tickets are also expected to sell quickly.

Midsummer Scream takes place at the Long Beach Convention Center from 7 to 9 August 2026, with the Scream 30th anniversary celebration running throughout the weekend. For more information and tickets, visit: midsummerscream.org/