THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 18, 2023
A pair of haunts for Halloween Article and photos by Ethan Nahté (except graveyard witches photo courtesy of Ariel Varner) There’s a hoot and a howl and a terrifying cry breaking the silent void of the night… and that will just be thrillseekers going through the Polk County area’s haunted houses. If any of you guys a ghouls visited Camp High Point last year or the Masonic Lodge across from Janssen Park, you will be familiar with Electric Forest Productions’ haunted house with towering monstrous figures and animatronic witches, clowns, spiders, and hall of fame characters from iconic horror films along, with fog, lasers and creepy sounds and thumping heartbeats pounding in your ears. This year, the House of Fear creeps into the abandoned school building at 302 Mena Street, across from the Polk County Court House. They have also put more into the production, so this year’s event will be approximately twice as large. An early preview of the facility reveals that the House of Fear takes up the majority of the entire ground-level floor, forcing those seeking thrills through a series of labyrinthine paths with something to see almost every step of the way. The venue is meant for adults, teens, and brave children accompanied by parents. Although family-friendly, it may be too intense for some children… and adults. They also plan on having a gaming area out back with a zombie shooting
gallery, music, concessions and more. The cost is $5 per person, regardless of age. The House of Fear will be open 6-10 p.m. on Oct. 20, 21, 27, 28 and 31. If you are interested in being a volunteer to assist or to act, contact them at admin@menahouseoffear.com or visit MenaHouseOfFear.com Elks Lodge For those who are seeking something a little more family friendly for all ages, be sure to check out the Elks Lodge Oct. 27, 28 and 31. Admission is $5 for the haunted house and $3 for the hayride. The proceeds go toward the elderly food baskets. They’ll also have a costume contest and Halloween dance for the adults Oct. 28. See their ad on p. 18 for more details. The Elks may still be seeking volunteers, as well, for working and/or acting at their haunted house.
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