RETAIL/TOURISM : Halloween Success Raises Spirits at Knott’s, Universal

Now that the battle of the two great Halloween haunts is over, Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Studios Hollywood are making a body count.

Knott’s, which originated its Halloween Haunt two decades ago, reported sellouts this year on all but the first and last nights. Universal Studios, which entered the fray this year but with fewer nights than Knott’s, said it sold out too on all but the first night.

“It was extremely successful for us,” Universal spokeswoman Joan Bullard said of the venture. “The entertainment was well received. . . . We found that guests wanted more mazes. Next year we will have more entertainment.”

Said spokesman Stuart Zanville at Knott’s in Buena Park, “There is clearly room for both of us.”

Each park had hoped that its gross-outs would help it outgross the competition. Universal offered such delights as “Carnival of Carnage” and “Mutation Pit.” Knott’s brought back such favorites as “Temple of Sacrifice” and “Revenge of the Dead.”