TransWorld’s Halloween & Attractions Show 2024 is the premiere haunt industry trade show. For over four decades, it has been the place where haunt industry members gather to network, learn, and see the latest products and services from top vendors. In recent years this show has also been co-located with TransWorld’s Christmas Show and Interactive Entertainment Show. Although they may not seem to mix, these are two complimentary industries that have much to offer haunt owners & operators. With so many haunts offering year-round experiences, these shows are sure to inspire. The combined events features a show floor with over 450+ exhibitors, educational seminars & workshops, and a plethora of networking events and parties.
TransWorld’s Halloween & Attractions Show 2024 takes place March 7th – 10th at America’s Center in St. Louis, Missouri.
There is so much to see and do, it might be overwhelming to someone who hasn’t navigated it before. So, here is my list of 5 Must-Dos at Transworld’s Halloween & Attractions Show 2024.
From animatronics to costumes, masks to makeup, websites to tickets, there is much to explore. The 450+ exhibitors on the show floor are sure to have new and interesting products and services aimed at haunters of all levels. Make sure to plan out a good chunk of time to explore the aisles and shop industry-leading vendors.
Here are my tips to make the most of your visit:
I hope that you can visit all the booths throughout the show floor. So many exhibitors have fantastic products & services and go all-out with their booth designs. Some highlights include:
TransWorld’s Halloween & Attractions expo offers a wide array of seminars and workshops. From safety to social media, design to scareacting, there are many options to help you perfect your craft and elevate your business practices. Be sure to take notes and don’t be aftraid to ask questions during any Q&A portions to get the most out of your experience.
Seminars are not included in general admission tickets, and must be purchased separately. Most classes are $65 ($55 early bird pricing through February 22nd). VIP Passes include 3 seminars of your choice (some exclusions apply) and the VIP & Unlimited Seminar Pass offers full access to most offerings (still some exclusions).
Check out the entire lineup of classes with descriptions & instructors on the official website.
There are no bad options in their lineup of educational sessions. Depending on your job and passion within the industry, certain classes may be more relevant to you than others.
Here are some unique and particularly interesting options:
Aside from their educational seminar/workshop options, the Haunted Attraction Association hosts two other events you won’t want to miss: The State of the Industry Presentation and The OSCARES. Both events are open to all attendees.
On Friday, March 8th at 10:00 a.m. the HAA Board members will host an open discussion about the 2023 haunt season and what trends they see for the 2024 season. They will also discuss the HAA’s new 3-Year Strategic Plan. This is a highly informative event with the opportunity to ask questions and share your own experiences. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran haunter, you are sure to get value out of this event.
Taking place Saturday, March 9th at 5:00 p.m., the annual OSCARES recognizes the achievements of haunted attraction owners, vendors, and others who have excelled in the industry. The HAA rolls out the black carpet for an evening of networking, honors, and some good food & drinks. Come out to support the best in the industry and celebrate those who contribute to the enduring success of haunts around the country.
Award Categories Include:
Obviously, nominations are closed for this year’s event, but the HAA is already accepting nominations for the 2025 awards.
The TransWorld Halloween Party is the place to dance, drink, and mingle with friends both old and new.
DJ Psych Jam from Basement of the Dead will play a killer mix of exciting tracks as haunters from around the world celebrate another successful show. I am a huge fan of the appetizers and dessert, and those with more of a sophisticated pallet will enjoy the cash bar.
This year’s theme is Día de Los Muertos. Costumes and creative attire are allowed and encouraged, but not required. You won’t want to miss the intricate and imaginative costumes your fellow haunters create!
I’ve saved the most-important thing to do at TransWorld’s Halloween & Party Expo for last: Network!
Haunters come to TrasWorld from around the globe. You can learn so much by taking the time to meet your peers in this professional-but-relaxed environment. Ask a haunter from another state about their experience in their market area, share advice with a newbie, and just connect with other haunters. As my favorite podcaster/ themed entertainment professional, Scott Swenson, often says, “when the tide comes in all ships rise.” If we band together and support one another, the whole industry will benefit. Personal connections are paramount.
TransWorld offers a miriad of opportunities to mix and mingle. View the full list on TransWorld’s official website, but here are a few of my favorites (Separate Tickets Required):
Ultimately, there is no “right way” or “wrong way” to do TransWorld’s Halloween & Attractions Show 2024. Planning ahead can help to maximize the number of things you see and do (and often save a little money with the pre-sale pricing), but also be sure to be open to all the exciting experiences that pop up along the way. With a gigantic show floor, lots of educational seminars, and a plethora of after-hours events, there is no way to see everything this show has to offer in one trip.
Just have fun – I’ll see you there!
Check out one of my adventures from TransWorld’s Halloween & Attractions Show 2023:
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TransWorld’s Halloween & Attractions Show 2024 is the premiere haunt industry trade show. For over four decades, it has been the place where haunt industry members gather to network, learn,
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Welcome to my home of all things horror & Halloween! The Horror of Being Emily showcases resources, creative projects, small businesses, and more related to my weird and wonderful Halloween & horror obsession.
