The smell of the fog and accompanying neon glow of Mel’s Die-In are staples of Halloween Horror Nights for many, though Mel’s Drive-In at Universal Studios Florida has been closed for refurbishment since June and is expected to remain closed through the Halloween Horror Nights season. While countless guests were disappointed by the restaurant’s temporary closure, the real nail in the coffin was when the neon sign (with the “r” and “v” removed for the scary festivities) remained off during the Team Member preview of HHN 32 on August 30.

Mel’s Die-In Neon Sign Lit for HHN

The Hollywood section of Universal Studios Florida was much darker with the lights off at Mel’s Drive-In during the Halloween Horror Nights Team Member preview. This added to the spooky vibes, but things just didn’t feel the same without Mel’s Die-In.

Due to the refurbishment, the power for this venue has been disconnected and the signs have been off recently. This was anticipated to last a few weeks, and news of the sign being off during the event was a great disappointment to fans. Taking photos at Mel’s Die-In is a tradition for many guests, so the notion of a completely dark Mel’s had many voicing their opinions.

After large amounts of feedback, power is now being run specifically to the Mel’s Drive-In sign during HHN event nights to create the Mel’s Die-In atmosphere we’re all dying to see.

As you can see in these photos, the sign is lit, minus the “R” and “V” in “Drive-In.”

As the evening darkness and rain progresses, Mel’s is beginning to embrace its full glory.

Even though the sign is lit for the event, the restaurant will remain closed as refurbishment continues inside. While Mel’s is closed, guest can stop by Battery Park for a temporary Die-In experience with Peanut Blooder Burgers and more. Minion Cafe will also be open during Halloween Horror Nights along with several other restaurants and specialty food booths.

Are you excited to see the Mel’s Die-In sign lit for Halloween Horror Nights this year? Let us know in the comments below and stay tuned for more Halloween Horror Nights coverage.

For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT.