The leaves are turning, goosebumps are creeping and once again, Spooky World is throwing open its gates for another season of horror-packed excitement. From Sept. 19 to Nov. 1, New England’s largest theme park has officially opened for another season, kicking off weeks of frightful fun that have made it one of the region’s premier Halloween attractions.
For many, Spooky World in Litchfield, New Hampshire, signifies the beginning of the spooky season. As you walk in, the smells of freshly cut up hay, grass, fog, mud and characters whispering fill the spooky air. With the sound of a huge blast of fire coming out of a black bus labeled “Spooky World.” These are the first sites you hear and see as you enter the zone of darkness.
The scream park has been a New England staple for over 30 years. The attraction was started by Dave Bertolino in 1991 in Berlin, Massachusetts. At the time, the haunted attraction had many homes, characters, games and it was hosted in many areas such as Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, before it found its current residence in Litchfield.
Its current owners, Mike Accomando and Wayne Caufield, bought the attraction in 2008 and moved it to Mel’s Funway Park, a family-fun park they already owned. Now an operation of over hundreds of people, Spooky World is made up of two haunted houses, one haunted walk and a mile-long haunted hayride.
The lineup this year features the staples that fans know and love, including everyone’s favorite, the legendary Haunted Hayride, a dark and winding ride through the woods where creatures, pyrotechnics and different staged horror scenes keep riders on edge. Longtime visitors noticed enhanced effects this season, with louder scares and more elaborate detailed set designs than in years past.
The sprawling property also features three other haunted attractions, each crafted with cinematic detail and designed to push even the bravest souls to their limits. Returning favorites like Nightmare in 3D with creepy bright colored clowns, Carnage continues to deliver heart-pounding scares, while The Colony sends guests through a pitch-black outdoor trail that feels ripped straight from a nightmare.
Opening weekend drew large crowds of horror fans and thrill-seekers eager to test their nerves as Spooky World was offering buy-one, get-one-free tickets and discounted tickets over the next weeks. Many guests arrived in Halloween-themed gear, adding to the festive spirit. The energy was electric as groups huddled together in line heading to each haunted attraction, clutching each other’s arms while waiting to enter, laughter often turning to shrieks once they entered the haunts.
Actors in detailed makeup lurked among the guests as they drank their alcohol in the beer garden, drawing screams, nervous laughter and plenty of free photo ops after visitors stepped foot inside all of the attractions.
But Spooky World isn’t just about fear; it’s about the atmosphere. The midway area, illuminated by eerie lights, fire pits and the sound of distant screams, offers food, games and a chance to catch your breath after haunts. Visitors can enjoy snacks like apple crisp, french fries, chicken tenders and grab a drink at the Brew Garden, or test their skills at axe throwing and zombie paintball. It’s a full night out where laughter mixes with nervous energy and anticipation.
What sets Spooky World apart is its ability to blend professional production quality with authentic scares. The attention to detail in the sets, makeup and storytelling creates an immersive experience that rivals the connection to Hollywood horror films. Actors prowl at every corner, from the haunted houses to the open walkways, ensuring that the fear never truly fades.
With its mix of classic scares, fresh attractions and a festive atmosphere, Spooky World’s opening weekend set the tone for what promises to be another unforgettable Halloween season. Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or just looking for an adrenaline rush, a night at Spooky World is the perfect way to embrace the spooky spirit of October.
As the screams echo into the crisp autumn October nights, one thing is for certain: Spooky World’s opening weekend proves that the season of fright has officially begun, and it’s scarier and more spectacular than ever. Tickets start at $50, with options for VIP passes that let guests skip the lines and dive straight into the nightmare.
