When the temperature drops, the candy aisles become stocked, and the scary Pumpkin Spice Latte girls come out of hibernation, it can only point to one thing: Spooky Season. With this season comes the time for cute fall dates and a chance to enjoy the cool weather, so here are five things you can do to celebrate the season locally.
The Haunted Trail:
What it is: The Haunted Trail is a thirty-minute Halloween attraction hosted every year by the Grissettown Fire Department that consists of a cast of scare actors made up of local firefighters and volunteer community members.
Why it’s important: The fire department puts their hard work and dedication into throwing this event every year, and all proceeds go back into the funding of the fire department.
When: The haunted trail runs every Friday and Saturday of October, as well as on Halloween itself.
Where: Grissettown Longwood Fire and Rescue, 758 Longwood Rd., Ocean Isle Beach, NC
Admission: $15 per person
Stump Hill Farms:
What it is: Stump Hill Farms is the place for family fun. Its three acres of land boast many activities, such as the corn pit, the jumping pillow, the big pipe slide, critter carts, a hayride, and so much more. Along with all the fun activities, you can pick up local favorites such as Katie’s Ice Cream or Sunset Slush, or you can grab a nice hot lunch from Stump Hill’s very own food truck.
Why it’s important: On top of the importance of supporting local businesses, Stump Hill gives everyone a chance to be more open to the world around them, with fun options for everyone that keep them outside and around nature.
When: Every Saturday in October from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where: 2030 Ash Little River Rd NW, Ash, NC 28420
Admission: $10 admission, with the exception of two and under, military, and first responders, who all get in for free.
Panic Attack:
What it is: Panic Attack is a similar attraction to The Haunted Trail, in that it is a trail full of scare actors and actresses. What makes it different is that it’s more intense and ready to give you a good scare. Panic Attack has been named as one of North Carolina’s most extreme haunted attractions.
When: Open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. 7:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m., Friday and Saturday, and 7:00 p.m.–10.00 p.m. on Sunday.
Where: Though this attraction is a little out of the way, it’s still worth the drive. Located at 3245 Pine Level Church Rd., Nakina, NC 28455.
Admission: This attraction costs $29.99 per person.
First Baptist Church of Shallotte Fall Festival:
What it is: Another local favorite, the First Baptist Church of Shallotte’s fall festival is a fan favorite. Everyone gets dressed up while the parents hand out candy to the trunk or treaters, while the kids can trunk or treat, play on the inflatables, grab some cotton candy and so much more. This event is family-friendly and fun for people of all ages.
When: Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 5:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Where: The festival is hosted by the First Baptist Church of Shallotte on their own church grounds, located at 4486 Main St., Shallotte, NC 28470.
Admission: And for a special surprise to any broke teen and overworked parent, this event is in fact free!
Brunswick Islands Baptist Pumpkin Patch:
What it is: This fun fall and Halloween attraction is put on by Brunswick Islands Baptist Church, where for the month of October they set out all their pumpkins to the community. This is fun for all ages, to take pictures, enjoy the cooler weather, and to make sure you have the perfect pumpkin for carving.
Why it’s important: All the proceeds earned from this pumpkin patch are recycled back into the church’s youth programs and to fund missions.
When: The Pumpkin Patch is open for the entirety of October with hours of 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 2:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Where: This beautiful patch can be found at 1672 Mt Pisgah Rd., Supply, NC.
Admission: While there is no admissions fee, there are various price tags if you would like to purchase a pumpkin.
Though these are five of the more popular attractions around our sandy shores, there are many activities and events around the Halloween season for all ages to enjoy. So choose to get out of the house and spend some time with your friends, family, or significant others.
