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Tag: Haunted Attraction

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Apparel Lifestyle

Wear a Haunt Shirt

Wear a Haunt Shirt

I love to share my passion for Halloween with the world year-round by sporting a haunt shirt as I go about my day. From classic unisex t-shirts to women’s fitted designs, haunts around the country sell some awesome keepsakes to remember all the scares and fun. Support your local haunts & attractions by picking up some new looks each time you visit. 

Showing Off My Haunt Shirt Collection

Cheesy but fun, I created that short for my #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween challenge. Day 14: Wear a Haunt Shirt. Of course, it is hard to choose just one! These are four of my favorite tees. I show my hometown pride with shirts from FrightWorld (Buffalo, NY) and House of Horrors & Haunted Catacombs (Buffalo, NY). Knott’s Scary Farm (Buena Park, CA) is my favorite SoCal theme park haunt – and the shirt glows in the dark. Lastly, Netherworld (Stone Mountain, GA) offers shirts that stand out from the rest. With a variety of colors and fitted styles, these shirts are both spooky and fashionable. 

Haunt Shirts Online

Can’t wait for the haunt season to pick up haunted attraction merch? Some haunts sell their shirts and more year-round on their websites. Here are just a few places to get some spooky haunt apparel today:

More 100 Days of Halloween

I am counting down to Halloween with a bucket list of my favorite things to do. Follow along on my blog, Facebook, and Instagram. To join in on the fun, use the hashtag #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween.

Halloween Cards

September 8, 2026 No Comments

Since the late nineteenth century, Halloween cards have been exchanged to share spooky greetings each autumn. From funny sayings to eerie poems, there are endless creative ways to send Halloween

Read More »

Autumn Dreams Playlist

September 7, 2026 No Comments

Deram of changing leaves, crisp mornings, and the distant smell of fireplaces with this Autumn Dreams playlist. The Song List This Autumn Dreams playlist combines jazzy classics with relaxing modern

Read More »

My Familiars

September 6, 2026 No Comments

Day #46 of my #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween challenge is: Appreciate My Familiars. I have been lucky enough to serve some of the most loving and supportive cats that have ever walked the

Read More »
Categories
Destinations Events News

Nightmare Wharf Comes to Buffalo Navel Park

Nightmare Wharf Comes to Buffalo Navel Park

Nightmare Wharf is brining nautical terror to the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park (Buffalo, NY) this Halloween season. For 16 nights October 2nd – November 1st, guests can expect a large-scale Halloween experience. Set among the historic ships and industrial waterfront of the Naval Park Campus, the event will feature multiple attractions, immersive walkthrough environments, outdoor scare zones, roaming scareacters, themed photo ops, entertainment, a full bar, and more. The run will conclude with a special “Lights Off” finale November 1st. 

“Nightmare Wharf is a new program designed to bring people to the waterfront, generate critical earned income, and help sustain the work of caring for these ships and honoring the men and women who served aboard them,” said Brian Luallen, President and CEO, Buffalo Naval Park.

Proceeds from Nightmare Wharf will support the Buffalo Naval Park’s nonprofit mission and the preservation and restoration of its historic vessels, exhibits, and educational programming. The Naval Park is preparing to send both USS The Sullivans and USS Croaker to a dry dock facility in Erie, Pennsylvania for repairs. Nightmare Wharf is being developed as an important fundraiser to help sustain operations and mission delivery during a period when those vessels will be unavailable for public access.

Follow this event’s Facebook & Instagram pages, and go to www.nightmarewarf.com to join their mailing list for early access announcements and first notice for ticket sales. Additional event details and themed will be announced in May 2026.

 Beneath the steel decks and along the shadowed pier, something stirs. Echoes of sailors long lost… whispers carried on the lake wind… and footsteps that do not belong to the living. Board if you dare, and journey through a waterfront where the past bleeds into the present. Every corridor, every hatch, every flicker of light pulls you deeper into the unknown.

Lots of Love for My Hometown Haunts & Halloween Friends

I was born and raised in Western New York and am always excited when new haunts and Halloween experiences pop up in the area. Buffalo already has some absolutely phenomenal haunts, and I am sure Nightmare Wharf will continue the legacy of quality attractions in the area. Aside from bringing entertainment, I support the Buffalo Naval Park’s mission of education and preservation. Haunts are a wonderful way to bring awareness to historic venues and raise revenue to keep their mission alive year-round. It is a great way to put your entertainment budget towards a good cause!

I would also be remiss not to mention the hard work of the current President & CEO of Buffalo Naval Park. I had the pleasure of working with Brian Luallen at ScareLA 2018. Additionally, he has overseen some of the largest Halloween events in the country – including being a Manager at Netherworld Haunted House and being the Director of Entertainment Events at The Queen Mary (Long Beach, CA). He also regularly speaks at industry conventions. No matter where he is working, he brings professionalism, creativity, and innovation. I am honored to call him a friend and excited to see what he is bringing to Western New York this Fall. 

Learn More About Nightmare Wharf

Website: https://nightmarewharf.com/

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Halloween Cards

September 8, 2026 No Comments

Since the late nineteenth century, Halloween cards have been exchanged to share spooky greetings each autumn. From funny sayings to eerie poems, there are endless creative ways to send Halloween

Read More »

Autumn Dreams Playlist

September 7, 2026 No Comments

Deram of changing leaves, crisp mornings, and the distant smell of fireplaces with this Autumn Dreams playlist. The Song List This Autumn Dreams playlist combines jazzy classics with relaxing modern

Read More »

My Familiars

September 6, 2026 No Comments

Day #46 of my #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween challenge is: Appreciate My Familiars. I have been lucky enough to serve some of the most loving and supportive cats that have ever walked the

Read More »
Categories
News

2025 Hauntathon Open for Submissions

2025 Hauntathon Open for Submissions

Haunted Attraction Network’s 2025 Hauntathon Open for Submissions

 

The Haunted Attraction Network’s 2025 Hauntathon is open for submissions! Now in its eleventh year, the 61-day multimedia celebration spotlighting haunted attractions worldwide brings fans long-form video features, short-form social content, podcast episodes, and a fabulously-written newsletter (if I do say so myself). The event runs daily September 1st through October 31st. 

“We’re proud to provide a platform that celebrates haunts of all sizes and styles,” said Philip Hernandez, founder of the Haunted Attraction Network. “From industry legends to home haunters, Hauntathon gives creators the visibility they deserve during the most exciting season of the year.”

Hauntathon 2025 is open to haunted attractions of all sizes—from large-scale commercial scream parks to heartfelt home haunts. Selected haunts will be featured in documentary-style videos, podcast interviews, and viral-ready social clips released throughout the Halloween season.

Submit Your Application Today

Why Apply?

In 2024, the Haunted Attraction Network delivered:

  • 📺 40.2 million video views across YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

  • 🎧 33,000 podcast downloads from horror-focused listeners

  • 📰 13,000 monthly website views and 4,500 engaged email subscribers

  • 💬 National media features on outlets like NBC’s California Live and NPR’s Marketplace

With a social media reach of over 550,000 followers, Hauntathon offers unmatched exposure for haunted attractions looking to build long-term visibility and connect with an engaged Halloween audience.

Submit Your Application Today

Sponsorship Opportunities

Want to support the haunt industry while reaching a highly targeted Halloween audience? Hauntathon 2025 offers several sponsorship options:

  • 🔦 Haunt Feature Sponsorship – Sponsor a haunt’s feature segment

  • 🎙️ Podcast Advertising – $75 per episode

  • 📰 Newsletter Feature – $300 for dedicated placement

  • 📱 Vertical Video Ad Integration – $300 for reels/shorts

To inquire about sponsorship packages, contact Philip directly at philip@hauntedattractionnetwork.com

Related Links:

Halloween Cards

September 8, 2026 No Comments

Since the late nineteenth century, Halloween cards have been exchanged to share spooky greetings each autumn. From funny sayings to eerie poems, there are endless creative ways to send Halloween

Read More »

Autumn Dreams Playlist

September 7, 2026 No Comments

Deram of changing leaves, crisp mornings, and the distant smell of fireplaces with this Autumn Dreams playlist. The Song List This Autumn Dreams playlist combines jazzy classics with relaxing modern

Read More »

My Familiars

September 6, 2026 No Comments

Day #46 of my #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween challenge is: Appreciate My Familiars. I have been lucky enough to serve some of the most loving and supportive cats that have ever walked the

Read More »
Categories
Events

5 Must-Dos at Transworld’s Halloween & Attractions Show 2024

5 Must-Dos at Transworld’s Halloween & Attractions Show 2024

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. 

#1 - Visit the Show Floor

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:

  1. Plan your route in advance with the floorplan andexhibitor list. 
  2. Bring a small bag to carry any brochures, catalogs, and rate sheets you collect from each booth. 
  3. Check social media prior to the event to see what sorts of show promotions vendors may be offering. Some even extend their sales to online customers, allowing you to place your order early and avoid large in-person crowds at the booth.
  4. Be sure to shop at your preferred spots early – sometimes exhibitors can become fully booked prior to the end of the show!

Highlights

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:

  • Froggy’s Fog (Booths 124, 522, 523, 623) – This past year they won the Best New Product Brass Ring Award at IAAPA for their Thanos A-1 Fog Blaster. Their high-powered fog machines are wonderful tools for haunts of every size. As a major sponsor of TransWorld’s Halloween & Attraction Show, their booth is always lively and filled with exciting products.
  • Poison Props (Booths 123 & 227) – Head into the Dark Zone to see their scary animatronics in action. With eerie lighting and sound effects, you can truly get a sense of how these animatronics can look in a haunt environment. 
  • The Haunted Attraction Association (Booth 2023) – Protecting, promoting, and educating their worldwide network of haunted attractions, vendors, artists, and enthusiasts, the HAA is the premiere organization for haunters. They offer education, resources, networking opportunities, and more for their members. Stop by to meet with members of their board and learn more about how the group can help you to further your haunt goals. You can also become a member right at the show.
  • Toxic FX (Booth 1003) – Offering professional quality masks and props, their booth is a must-see on my list for their rotten pumpkin props. New for this year is a line of “Ghost Pumpkins” – similar to their rotten pumpkins aesthetic, but with a ghostly white color. 
  • Inferno Effects (Booth 1131) – Extremely detailed and high quality, these masks and props from Inferno Effects are unique and durable. New products for this year’s event include the Niko line (Flesh, Rotten, Swamp, & Custom Variants), Werewolf (Grey, Brown, Black, & Custom Variants), and Cracked. 

#2 - Learn from the Pros

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.

Highlights

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:

  • The Haunted Attraction Association’s C.H.A.O.S. Fire & Safety Seminar (Thursday, March 7th at 9:30 a.m.)($20 for HAA Members, $75 for Non-Members) – Focusing on safety concerns, fire marshal issues, and proper methods of building a safe event, this is the premiere safety course for haunters. This class counts towards the 8-hour training requirement for the full HAA CHAOS Completion Certificate. 
  • Make Your Guest Experience Legendary! Delivering an Incredible Visitor Experience Every Time (Thursday, March 7th at 1:45 p.m.) –  Amy Hollaman and Brett Bertolino of Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group will share their methods and tips on how to improve customer satisfaction and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Having attended her panels in the past, I can attest that Amy is an engaging and knowledgeable speaker, making the class fun in addition to educational!
  • Foundations of Fear: Opening or Growing an Attraction in Today’s Fast-Paced Business World (Friday, March 8th at 11:15 a.m.) – Spencer Terry will discuss how to start your own professional haunt and how to grow it into a successful business. His track record at Fear Factory SLC and the knowledge he has acquired as President of the Haunted Attraction Association lead me to believe this class will be an asset to those entering the business or ready to take the next steps to grow their haunt. 
  • Critical Emerging Trends In The Haunted Attraction Industry (Saturday, March 9th at 2:00 p.m.) – This panel discussion with Chris Stafford (Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group), TJ Mannarino (Universal Orlando) and Ben Armstrong (Netherworld Haunted House) will look at what opportunities and challenges may arise in the 2024 Halloween season. 

#3 - Attend the HAA Industry Events

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. 

The State of the Industry

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.

The OSCARES

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:

  • Vendor Excellence Awards
  • Board of Directors Awards
  • Special Recognition
  • Home Haunt Award
  • Life Time Achievement Award

Obviously, nominations are closed for this year’s event, but the HAA is already accepting nominations for the 2025 awards. 

#4 - Party the Night Away

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!

 

#5 - Network, Network, Network

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.

Highlights

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):

  • TransWorld’s Networking Night Out! (Wednesday, March 6th at 7:30 p.m.) ($75 Advance, $95 On-Site)- Kick off your event with this fun and relaxed social. The event will feature productive roundtables focused on specific topics within the Haunt, Interactive Entertainment, and Christmas industries. 
  • City Museum Party (Thursday, March 7th at 7:00 p.m.)($60 Advance, $75 On-Site) – Get to experience this weird and wonderful venue without the crowds. During the private party, TransWorld Attendees can explore the museum, dance to tune from DJ Psych Jam from Basement of the Dead, eat, and purchase drinks from multiple cash bars throughout the venue. It is a wild and crazy evening!
  • Interactive Entertainment Game: Dusk ’til Dawn, A Zombie Showdown Challenge (Friday, March 8th at 8:00 p.m.) ($45 Advance, $60 On-Site) – Work as a team to defend against the zombie horde in this intense game of teamwork and strategy. What better way to get to know some new friends?  

Have Fun at TransWorld's Halloween & Attractions Show 2024!

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:

The Darkness St. Louis Walkthrough

Halloween Cards

September 8, 2026 No Comments

Since the late nineteenth century, Halloween cards have been exchanged to share spooky greetings each autumn. From funny sayings to eerie poems, there are endless creative ways to send Halloween

Read More »

Autumn Dreams Playlist

September 7, 2026 No Comments

Deram of changing leaves, crisp mornings, and the distant smell of fireplaces with this Autumn Dreams playlist. The Song List This Autumn Dreams playlist combines jazzy classics with relaxing modern

Read More »

My Familiars

September 6, 2026 No Comments

Day #46 of my #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween challenge is: Appreciate My Familiars. I have been lucky enough to serve some of the most loving and supportive cats that have ever walked the

Read More »
Categories
Attractions News

Haunted Attraction Network’s 2023 Hauntathon

Haunted Attraction Network’s 2023 Hauntathon

Prepare yourself for a spine-tingling Halloween season with the Haunted Attraction Network’s 2023 Hauntathon. Lasting 61 days September 1st – October 31st, this celebration of haunted houses from around the globe will feature videos, podcasts, VIP in-person experiences, and more. 

The Haunted Attraction Network has gathered 13 ghoulish partners – including me – to bring viewers to 61+ haunted attractions worldwide. Hauntathon will explore some of the world’s best and most mysterious haunted attractions, from the classic to the cutting-edge. What does it take to scare people? You’ll find out.  In this year’s Hauntathon, viewers will get an inside look at the creative process behind some of the world’s most famous haunted attractions.

I am beyond excited to once again be a part of this incredible endeavor! Be on the lookout for me in various videos and be sure to subscribe to the weekly newsletter for up-to-date industry news written by yours truly. 

2023 Hauntathon

Listen

Subscribe on Spotify, iTunes, using RSS, or by searching “Haunted Attraction Network” in any podcast player.

Watch

Watch shorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. For Full Length content, follow our YouTube Playlist.

Experience

Blood & Bones: The Ultimate Fan Experience
From show producers Joshua Grannell (“Peaches Christ”) and David Flower, comes an experience that’s taken the bay area by storm, and already garnered a cult-like following. Brimming with freakishly fabulous performances, this hybrid haunt-theatrcial horror show leaves you begging for more. Join us on October 7th, 2023, at this Superfan event! You’ll get to experience The Initiation, hear from show producers Joshua Grannell (“Peaches Christ”) and David Flower during a panel, shake your bones with Skeleton Sam from LVCRFT (Hocus Pocus 2, Hubie Halloween the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina), and even get bloody with exclusive photo moments!

Sir Henry’s Legacy: A 10-Year Retrospective
From its humble origins as an outdoor trail in Plant City, Florida, a legendary scream park has emerged. This multi-attraction destination has captivated thrill-seekers and inspired podcasts, books, and even a film. Join us at Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail on November 4th, 2023, to celebrate Sir Henry’s Dark Legacy. You’ll get an express pass to experience every attraction, hear from founder Zach Glaros during a panel, and get exclusive photo moments with Sir Henry himself!

Featured Attractions

Featured Theme Parks Include:

Featured Haunts Include:

Programming Partners

 

Attractions Magazine

Attractions Magazine covers all the major theme parks and attractions. The Attractions Magazine website, YouTube, and social media accounts are filled with an exciting new looks at Disney, Universal, SeaWorld, Legoland, and other major attractions. Their coverage includes in-depth articles, tips, reviews, restaurants, hotels, and much more!

 

Creepy Kingdom

Covering the Spooky Side of Films, Theme Parks, & Beyond! Creating Original Films, Podcasts & Events.

 

Freaks of HHN

Founded out of a love for haunted attractions and theme park spookiness, Freaks of HHN reports on haunted attractions through social media posts, blogs, and vlog-style videos.

 

HaunTopic Radio

HaunTopic Radio is a monthly audio podcast about HOW to start and grow a Haunted House Attraction or Halloween Event.

 

Kevin Heimbach

Kevin is an Orlando Vlogger covering all things theme parks, attractions, conventions, and haunts.

 

Muse TV

MUSE TV features the best in film, television, music, lifestyle, tech, and so much more. If it is an interview with one of your favorite celebrities or musicians, special features from the red carpet or blockbuster movie, theme parks or travel destination, a concert with your favorite band, or experience an attraction from another part of the globe MUSE TV has you covered! Their reporters are the future of journalism today with many of them attending the best journalistic colleges and universities in the Southern California area. Their legacy of journalists on MUSE TV can now be seen across the nation in front of and behind the camera in newsrooms at NBC, CBS, FOX, and more. MUSE TV Now Available on Roku & Amazon Fire TV.

 

OMNI Adventures

A couple of fun-loving adventurers! They specialize in organic event coverage in the SoCal area.

 

Scaretrack

ScareTrack is the UK’s first podcast dedicated to the Scare Attraction & Haunted House Industry.

 

Sharp Productions

With over 600,000 subscribers on YouTube, Sharp Productions is a leading expert in POV content for Roller Coasters, Theme Park, and haunted attractions.

 

That Halloween Podcast

Halloween fans scream! Listen along as they celebrate the greatest day of the year. From discussions about Halloween movies and specials, to traditions, games and more, this podcast is for all of the spooky folks out there whose lives perk up a bit every October. Host of the show, Jeff DePaoli, welcomes many guests to the podcast who have worked on your favorite scary movies and haunted attractions.

 

The Horror of Being Emily

The Horror of Being Emily showcases resources, creative projects, small businesses, and more related to my weird and wonderful Halloween & horror obsession. (You should probably already be aware of this one since you are currently reading this blog) 

 

The Scare Factor

The Scare Factor provides Haunted House and Halloween lovers with the most professional and accurate info possible.

 

This Weekend, with Nick Pagliochini

Tune in to “This Weekend, with Nick Pagliochini” on Fridays at 8p PST/PDT, during “Later, with Mo’ Kelly” to get the lowdown on what you could be doing over the weekend and beyond: theme parks, museums, music festivals, community events, foodie finds, etc. You name it, Nick likely has the 411, or will know who to ask to find out what it is that you’re lookin’ for.

2023 Hauntathon Sponsors

The 2023 Hauntathon is made possible through generous financial support from Gantom Lighting and Controls. Gantom Illuminates attractions worldwide with the world’s smallest intelligent fixtures. See what you’re missing with a free demo. 

Halloween Cards

September 8, 2026 No Comments

Since the late nineteenth century, Halloween cards have been exchanged to share spooky greetings each autumn. From funny sayings to eerie poems, there are endless creative ways to send Halloween

Read More »

Autumn Dreams Playlist

September 7, 2026 No Comments

Deram of changing leaves, crisp mornings, and the distant smell of fireplaces with this Autumn Dreams playlist. The Song List This Autumn Dreams playlist combines jazzy classics with relaxing modern

Read More »

My Familiars

September 6, 2026 No Comments

Day #46 of my #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween challenge is: Appreciate My Familiars. I have been lucky enough to serve some of the most loving and supportive cats that have ever walked the

Read More »
Categories
Attractions Destinations Emily

Springtopia LA 2023

Springtopia LA 2023

Springtopia LA 2023 brought 200,000 square feet of exciting and immersive fun to Southern California March 29th – April 23rd. The event offered haunts, a laser light experience, silent disco, carnival rides, and more – all for $35 per person.

Philip Hernandez of The Haunted Attraction Network invited me along to explore each of the seven themed lands:

  • 3D Circus Land – featuing a surprisingly terrifying 3D clown maze
  •  Fun Land – with bubbles and a rockin’ silent disco
  • Puppy Land – where you can pet and play with an assortment of delightful dogs
  • Pirate Land – search for hidden treasure and pillage with pirates. But beware –  you may have to walk the plank! Watch out for sharks!
  • Lightshow Land – walkthrough thousands of sparkling lights, lasers, and more
  • Spooky Land – featuring two horrifying haunts (for ages 13+)
  • Holiday Land – frolic in “snow” with Santa, elves, and the Grinch at the “West Coast Pole” in this Socal Winter Wonderland

We also stopped by the food court and midway for rides, carnival games, and snacks. It was quite the evening!

Exploring Springtopia LA 2023

Want to see more of my Haunted Attraction Network escapades? Check out more videos below:

Scream Break 2023

The Darkness

Don’t forget to follow The Haunted Attraction Network on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and their website for the latest Halloween news & entertainment. You can also sign up for their newsletter (written by yours truly) for weekly haunt news delivered stright to your inbox.

Halloween Cards

September 8, 2026 No Comments

Since the late nineteenth century, Halloween cards have been exchanged to share spooky greetings each autumn. From funny sayings to eerie poems, there are endless creative ways to send Halloween

Read More »

Autumn Dreams Playlist

September 7, 2026 No Comments

Deram of changing leaves, crisp mornings, and the distant smell of fireplaces with this Autumn Dreams playlist. The Song List This Autumn Dreams playlist combines jazzy classics with relaxing modern

Read More »

My Familiars

September 6, 2026 No Comments

Day #46 of my #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween challenge is: Appreciate My Familiars. I have been lucky enough to serve some of the most loving and supportive cats that have ever walked the

Read More »
Categories
Emily Events Theme Parks

Scream Break 2023 with Sharp Productions

Scream Break 2023 with Sharp Productions

14 select nights March 9th – April 16th, Six Flags Magic Mountain presents “Scream Break”. The after-hours event features two haunts, three scare zones, frightfully delicious treats, and more. The weekend of March 25th, I experienced Scream Break 2023 with Sharp Productions.

We started the evening with a haunted cocktail hour and the event’s signature cocktail/mocktail, “Skulls on the Beach”. Then it was ghouls gone wild as Elsie and I survived some monster hazing with “Vault 666: Initiation”. Next we made our way to one hell of a frat party with “Condemned: House Party”. We met quite a few frighteningly friendly monsters in the scare zones, and danced the night away at Dead Man’s Party.  Plus, I scored some devilishly handsome light-up devil horns! It was a fantastic evening!

It was so fun to celebrate spring break with haunts and a mini version of the larger October Fright Fest event. I loved how committed and enthusiastic the scareacters were, and the theming was cohesive throughout. Each haunt and scare zone had a uniquely Spring Break feel. I can’t wait to return in the Fall for the main event!

Learn more about Six Flags Magic Mountain’s Scream Break on the event’s official website. 

Watch the Full Video

Thank you very much to the Sharp Productions team for letting me tag along to Scream Break 2023! See more of their amazing haunt walkthrough and ride videos on their Youtube Page. Follow them on Facebook & Instagram.

Want to see more Emily & more haunts? Check out my past walkthrough of The Darkness Haunted House in St. Louis, MO. 

Halloween Cards

September 8, 2026 No Comments

Since the late nineteenth century, Halloween cards have been exchanged to share spooky greetings each autumn. From funny sayings to eerie poems, there are endless creative ways to send Halloween

Read More »

Autumn Dreams Playlist

September 7, 2026 No Comments

Deram of changing leaves, crisp mornings, and the distant smell of fireplaces with this Autumn Dreams playlist. The Song List This Autumn Dreams playlist combines jazzy classics with relaxing modern

Read More »

My Familiars

September 6, 2026 No Comments

Day #46 of my #Emilys100DaysOfHalloween challenge is: Appreciate My Familiars. I have been lucky enough to serve some of the most loving and supportive cats that have ever walked the

Read More »
Categories
Attractions Destinations

The Darkness Walkthrough: Animatronics-Only

The Darkness Walkthrough: Animatronics-Only

Get ready to come along with me on a walkthrough of The Darkness with animatronics-only (no actors)!

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, The Darkness Haunted House is one of the major players in the U.S. for a traditional walkthrough haunt. I remember first learning about it one summer when I was in junior high school. I saved all my money from my summer job to buy the entire HauntWorld DVD set and proceeded to spend hours upon hours watching and re-watching the series’ haunter tips, location walkthroughs, and hilarious skits from Dr. & Laura Lady of the Horror Hotel in Chatfield, Ohio. The videos were made by The Darkness owner Larry Kirschner and I vowed that I would one day travel to Missouri to see his creation first-hand. 

It took me a little over ten years, but when I finally made it out to TransWorld’s Halloween & Attraction Show, I immediately signed up to go on the behind-the-scenes tour – and boy did it live up to the hype! The team of haunters that create each room have top-notch skills in fabrication and design. They take guests from the deepest regions of the jungle to a yeti’s ice lair, from a cannibal’s kitchen to a sinister circus. I love going back every year to revisit my favorite areas and check out what’s new. (Maybe one year they will finally replace that horrifying spider room. A girl can dream!)

This year I had the opportunity to accompany Sharp Productions & The Haunted Attraction Network on a private walkthrough with full show lighting and animatronics. Of course, I jumped at the chance – and then jumped quite a few times from the scares within the haunt!

 

The Darkness Walkthrough Video

For those who do not have the full half-hour to marvel at the superb detail in this haunt, here are a few of my favorite moments:

  •  That Terrifying Spider Room (0:03:47)
  •  The Cthulhu Creature and his Crocodile Friend (0:05:30)
  • The Laser Swamp Room (0:08:25)
  • The 3 Jack o’ Lantern Rooms (0:10:47 – 0:11:50)
  • The Library (0:13:25) – NO TALKING IN THE LIBRARY!
  • The Corpse Ceiling (0:14:14)
  • Sheet Ghost Room (0:14:47)
  • The Doll Room (0:15:53)
  • The Man-Eating Plant (0:17:09) – Don’t worry, as a woman, I was safe
  • The Man-Eating Plant II (0:18:21) – This time with more carnivorous plant friends
  • Giant 3-D Clown (0:21:33) – With some high-brow audio humor

I want to hear from you! What where your favorite parts of the haunt? Let me know on Facebook or Instagram! 

Thank you to Philip of The Haunted Attraction Network and the Sharp Productions team for letting me be a part of this walkthrough! Thank you to Larry Kirschner and The Darkness team for letting us tour the haunt!

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Categories
Attractions News

Haunted Attraction Network’s Annual Hauntathon

Haunted Attraction Network’s Annual Hauntathon

Countdown to Halloween with daily podcasts from the Haunted Attraction Network’s annual Hauntathon. September 1st through October 31st, this daily programming will help haunters navigate the unique challenges of this upcoming Halloween season.  

“This year’s Halloween is critical for the industry, and we’ll be there every day to help. While we’re producing serious segments on emerging issues, we also need some room to enjoy the holiday; I’m thrilled with the balance of informative and entertaining content that we have lined up. I’m grateful to all the partners that have stepped up to help this year,” – Philip Hernandez, Publisher at the Haunted Attraction Network and CEO of Gantom Lighting.

As a contributor to the Haunted Attraction Network, I am proud to be a part of this 61-Day Hauntathon. Keep an ear out for my interviews with various haunters and some on-location audio from haunts around California! As usual, I will also help create the weekly newsletters to keep you  up-to-date with all the haunt industry news from around the globe. 

Follow the Haunted Attraction Network for daily podcasts, available on: iTunes, Spotify, Soundcoud, RSS, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Programming Details

The Haunted Attraction Network’s Annual Hauntathon has gathered a gang of ghouls to provide a wide range of informative and entertaining content, including:

  • State of The Industry updates from the Haunted Attraction Association Board Members.
  • Trip Reports from The ScareFactor, The Hauntline, and ScareTrack.
  • Hack Hacks, implementable tricks to provide haunt professionals helpful information in small packages, from Scott Swenson.
  • Industry News from Green Tagged, Haunter’s Toolbox, and Socalloween909.
  • Foam Carving and decorating from Victoria Lohman of Hot Wire Foam Factory.
  • Various poems and short stories of the dark and witchy sort from Whispers of a Witch.
  • Guerrilla Marketing from Scary Good Marketing.
  • Last Minute Haunt Lighting from Gantom Lighting & Controls.
  • Haunt owner check-ins from around the world.

About the Haunted Attraction Network

The Haunted Attraction Network connects and educates the Global Haunted Attraction Industry through weekly podcasts and newsletters. In 2021 they’re celebrating their 7th year, 500th episode, and over 2 million downloads!

Follow the Haunted Attraction Network for daily podcasts, available on: iTunes, Spotify, Soundcloud, RSS, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Haunted Attraction Network's Annual Hauntathon Partners

Gantom illuminates attractions worldwide with the world’s smallest award-winning intelligent spotlights.

ScareTrack is the UK’s first podcast dedicated to the Scare Attraction & Haunted House Industry. We bring listeners in depth interviews with some of the biggest names in the UK scare scene, discussion & debate episodes as well on on-location review episodes from scream parks, zombie chases, immersive theatre and much more.

For over 30 years, Scott Swenson has been bringing stories to life as a Producer, Director, Writer and Performer. His work in Theme Park, Consumer Events, Live Theater and Television has given him a broad spectrum of experiences. After 21 years working with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, Scott has now formed Scott Swenson Creative Development LLC and is working with various clients developing shows, events, festivals and training classes.

The Hauntline is a YouTube show and Podcast dedicated to SoCal Haunts & Events! Follow for Haunt Reviews, Rumors, & Behind the Screams!

SoCalloween909 is the 909’s LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS Source On All Things Horror, Haunts, Halloween, & Everything In Between in SoCal, 365.

The Haunted Attraction Association, the only official association in the haunt industry, serves as the voice of the haunted attraction industry. Their mission is to promote their worldwide network of haunted attractions including Haunted Houses, Haunted Hayrides, Scream Parks, Mega-Haunts, Halloween Festivals, Haunted Outdoor Trails, Corn Mazes, and Amusement Park Halloween Events.

“Our board members are a wealth of knowledge and we’re excited for this opportunity to share solutions to the challenges for this season. It’s also in alignment with our goal of connecting more with our members,” – Spencer Terry, Board President of the Haunted Attraction Association.

The Scare Factor provides Haunted House and Halloween lovers with the most professional and accurate info possible. They are not the oldest or the newest, but they are BY FAR the most complete and up-to-date website of our kind in the haunted attraction industry.

Do you have questions about starting your own haunted attraction or keeping the doors open at your current one? The Haunter’s Toolbox is the place to get those answers. Monthly online masterclasses with professionals in the haunt industry, access to the exclusive toolbox media library, and a private community to get instant feedback. Get the tools you need at HauntersToolbox.com

Created by actress and voice over artist Jennifer Anne Scott this weekly podcast provides something of a different sort to listen to and enjoy – a dark escape if you will. If you love spooky stories, you will love Whispers of a Witch!

Hot Wire Foam Factory offers a wide range of foam cutting and shaping tools, foam coating products, instructional DVDs and patterns for the hobbyist, home crafter and professional artist.

At Scary Good Marketing, they take the fear out of marketing and advertising your business using battle-tested strategies and creativity to bring you a better ROI.

I hope you give these podcasts a listen! Happy haunting!

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Categories
Attractions Destinations News Theme Parks

Hatbox Ghost Returns to Disneyland

Hatbox Ghost Returns to Disneyland

In an April 10th, 2015 press release Disney Parks Blog announced that a long-lost member of the 999 happy haunts at Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion would be reappearing this spring – the Hatbox Ghost!

The “Hatbox Ghost” was an original member of the Haunted Mansion’s grim grinning ghosts when the attraction opened in 1969. Appearing in the attic scene near the Bride, he was dressed in a cloak and top hat and held a hatbox in his hand. As the Bride’s heart beat, the Hatbox Ghost’s head would disappear from his shoulders and reappear in the hatbox.

The Hatbox Ghost was removed shortly after the mansion’s opening due to issues with the effect. The illusion of his head changing locations relied solely on lighting effects, and because of its proximity to the Doom Buggies, guests could see the two locations of the head even when one was supposed to have disappeared.

Disney Imagineer Yale Gracey Posing with the Hatbox Ghost

With advancements in technology, Disney is now ready to give this ghost a second chance at (after)life in May 2015. There have not yet been pictures released of the new figure or details on whether the effect will be practical or digital in nature.

All fans can do is speculate while we count down the days until the Hatbox Ghost’s reappearance!

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