Are you looking for a fun night out that will get you into the Halloween spirit? Whether you want to be spooked by something haunted or dress up and hit the town with friends, there is something around the area for you.
An obvious choice is Six Flags Great Adventure’s Fright Fest. Located in Jackson, it’s not too far of a ride. The thrill of Six Flags’ classic rollercoasters is not the only attraction to the famous theme park this season. You will be greeted by ghastly creatures while roaming around the park and even have the chance to see shows and presentations tailored to fright.
New attractions include the Straw-Man Stalkers and the Manor, which is a tour of an abandoned haunted house. If you’re not up for the extreme scares, you can still get your adrenaline pumping on rides like Kingda Ka and Nitro. You have to hurry, because this Halloween-inspired event will only be running until Oct. 27.
Spanish and elementary eduction major Jessica Dayton said, “Even though the haunted trails cost more money, they are worth it. The insane asylum was so scary, but so fun.”
C. Casola Farms in Marlboro will be featuring their Haunted Hayride of Terrors on the weekends through Nov. 2. There are also three other attractions: a 3D Haunted Barn, the Haunted Wooded Trail, and the new Living Maze.
If you are brave enough to go by foot, you can walk through the back woods or get trapped in a labyrinth, but beware of who may be joining you. If you want a bit of a scare with the safety of transportation, the hayride would be a better option. The hayride is $15 alone, and the rest of the attractions are $12 each. If you want to experience them all, you can purchase a pass for $40, or $50 if you want to cut all of the lines. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to get a thrill.
The Strathmore Art Theater in Aberdeen will be having a midnight showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show every Friday night. If you’re a fan of the cult classic, you can see it be brought to life with a full cast on stage. Oct. 25 and 26 will be the Two Night Extravaganza, with two different cast lists, audience participation, and a costume contest.
If you’re in the mood for fun instead of fright, there are places around that will be hosting Halloween-themed events. Belmar’s summer spot D’Jais will be having its Second Annual Halloween Costume Ball. With cash prizes for the best costumes, you should get creative and dress your best. Advance tickets are available online at www.djais.com for $20. The event will be taking place Oct. 26, with Happy Hour beginning at 8 pm and the party lasting well into the witching hours.
Also on Oct. 26, The Draft House will be presenting a costume contest. The best costume will win a $1,000 cash prize.
The Avenue in Pier Village will also have a costume contest with a $1,000 grand prize. Taking place on Nov. 2, you have extra time to plan your elaborate ensemble.
Whether you’re looking for a spooky way to spend your night, or an entertaining, yet unfrightening way to celebrate the season, there are plenty of places around the area to go. Just be ready for the thrills, horrors, and fun you may encounter.
