Universal Removes Alcohol Clearance From Epic Universe for Certain Guests, Instant Suspension In Effect

There’s a lot to be excited about when it comes to Universal Orlando’s upcoming Epic Universe. From multi-launch coasters to lands inspired by classic monsters, How to Train Your Dragon, and Super Nintendo World, the park is already shaping up to be a game-changer. But one of the most unique features you can book? A full-blown transformation at the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience—where guests can become a vampire, werewolf, or other creature of the night.

It’s theatrical, immersive, and wildly shareable—but it comes with a catch that’s surprising a lot of visitors. Once you’re in your makeup… you can’t buy alcohol anywhere in the park.

Full Transformation… But No Cocktails

Darkmoor is Epic Universe’s haunting homage to Universal’s horror roots, and the Monster Makeup Experience is at the heart of it. Guests choose between two ticket types:

• The Experiment, which includes professional face paint

• The Transformation, which adds themed accessories like horns, fangs, and more

Both packages promise high-impact looks created by Universal’s talented artists, and guests get to strut around Epic Universe looking like they stepped straight out of a monster movie. It’s quickly becoming one of the park’s most talked-about extras—and for good reason. The artistry is next-level.

But here’s what caught us (and a lot of people on social media) off guard: once your face is painted, you’re done drinking for the day.

Team Members at the experience are quick to explain the policy. Since the makeup dramatically changes your appearance, it becomes difficult—or outright impossible—for staff to match you with your ID. Someone made up to look 40 might actually be 18. So, in an effort to prevent underage drinking, Universal has drawn a hard line: no alcohol purchases if you’re wearing monster makeup.

And this rule doesn’t just apply to Epic Universe. It extends across all Universal Orlando parks and even CityWalk. So, if you’re rocking a vampire look, don’t expect to grab a beer at Islands of Adventure or unwind with a cocktail at a CityWalk restaurant afterward.

Fans Are Already Talking About It

Since preview bookings went live, the Monster Makeup Experience has taken over TikTok and Instagram. Guests are showing off their spooky makeovers—and also voicing their surprise over the no-alcohol policy. The comments range from supportive (“Makes sense, I wouldn’t want to be accidentally served either”) to frustrated (“Wish I knew this before I booked—it’s my birthday trip!”).

Some savvy parkgoers have already started strategizing: hit up your favorite bar or grab that signature drink before your transformation, or save the experience for later in the day after the drinking portion of your visit is over.

Universal Has Done This Before

Interestingly, this isn’t a totally new approach for Universal. Over in Hollywood, the park recently posted a similar guideline for Fan Fest Nights, stating that no alcohol will be served to guests with face paint covering more than half their face vertically. The rule wasn’t elaborated on, but it’s clearly in the same spirit—face paint makes ID checks tricky, and Universal isn’t taking chances.

Is It Still Worth Booking?

In our opinion? Definitely.

The Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience is one of the most creative, interactive options we’ve ever seen in a theme park. It adds an incredible layer to your day, especially if you’re already planning to explore the Darkmoor area in full. Plus, the makeup itself is high-quality enough that you’ll want to snap dozens of photos before washing it off.

Just be smart about when you book. If you’ve got your heart set on a cocktail or a specialty drink, make time for that before your appointment—or consider booking your makeover as a finale for the evening.

Reservations for the experience are open now for dates after Epic Universe’s grand opening on May 22, 2025. Spots are expected to fill up fast, especially with all the buzz online.

Have you booked your transformation yet? And what do you think about the no-drinks rule? Sound off below—we want to know.