Spooky Happenings

& Fall Fun Ideas

By Natalie Downey

A solitary leaf breaks away from its tree and dances a meandering waltz towards the concrete. The hint of pumpkin spice wafts from a coffee shop, and you step outside one morning to find that the endless heat of a seemingly eternal summer is quietly fading. “Is this Heaven?” you ask yourself.

No. It’s the next best thing: autumn.

Fall is a time of celebration here in the South, for we survived yet another season of summer’s ruthless mistreatment. As temperatures slowly drop, we find ourselves daring to exit our air conditioned shelters and enter the great outdoors.

Fall brings a sense of excitement, not only because of its glorious weather, but also because of the spooky thrills the season is known for. From pumpkin patches to haunted hikes, the community comes alive as the trees shed their leaves and opportunities to enjoy the spooky allure of autumn abound.

This fall, enjoy the cooler weather and prepare for a fright or two with these upcoming activities.. From Spooky (family friendly fun) to Spookier (a little scream here and there but lots of fun), to Spookiest (bring a change of pants), there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

SPOOKY

Linwood Ramble

The Historic Linwood Cemetery invites the curious to explore the stories of the past. The Linwood Ramble, a guided tour of the graveyard, is family friendly and offers the opportunity to explore the rich history and heritage of our community. The event takes place on October 17, and each ticket includes a Country’s Barbecue dinner, live music by the Columbus State University Jazz Trio, and an open bar. For more information, visit linwoodcemetery.org

SpringerWEEN party

Kick off the Halloween season at the Springer’s family-friendly Halloween party. From spooky storytelling to live performances, the free event will include vendors, a costume contest, and more. Don’t miss the fun on October 6 from 3:00 - 6:00 pm in the McClure courtyard. For more information, visit springeroperahouse.org

Lane Southern Orchard and Corn Maze

Explore six acres of corn maze fun, hayrides, pumpkins, and a corn cannon at Lane’s, located in Fort Valley, GA. Corn Maze days take place Wednesday through Sunday in October. On October 19, visit Lane’s for their Fall Farm Festival with bounce houses, slide, a Kidz Play Zone, and more. Visit lanesouthernorchards.com for more details.

SPOOKIER

National Civil War Naval Museum Paranormal Tours

Many tales of uncanny happenings have originated at the National Civil War Naval Museum. The museum is home to many artifacts and stories from the Civil War times. This season, they will host guided Paranormal Tours led by author and paranormal investigator Faith Serafin who will share stories from her personal investigation experiences. Tours take place Oct 3-6. Children are not allowed. Visit portcolumbus.org for more information.

Springer Opera House Ghost Tours

Built in 1871, the Springer Opera House is a place full of activity, both human and eerily other. Explore the tales of the Springer’s haunted history and, if you dare, take an inside look down each spooky corridor on their guided ghost tours, taking place every Friday and Saturday evening. Recommended for ages 12 and up.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

A community tradition, this improv live screening of the 1975 cult classic will take place on October 26. You won’t want to miss this interactive, one-of-a-kind event taking place one night only. Attendees under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Misery

Stephen King’s psychological thriller takes the stage in this chilling adaptation of the 1990 film. Suspenseful and creepy, this unpredictable play is for audiences ages 16 and older.

*These all happen at the Springer Opera House. Just visit springeroperahouse.com for tickets and showtimes.

SPOOKIEST

Pope’s Haunted Farm

One of the area’s longest-running horror attractions, Pope’s Haunted Farm features horrifying characters sent to give visitors the most terrifically terrifying time of their lives. With new attractions each year, this season’s guests can explore the Haunted Barn, Haunted Forest, and Haunted Hayride. Pope’s will open for the season on October 5 and will run every weekend through October. Visit popes-farm.com for more information.

Nightmare on 190

Let the fall breeze blow you on over to Pine Mountain, where you can dare to explore the haunted attractions at Nightmare on 190. Featuring two haunted houses and a haunted trail, this deliciously horrid nightmare takes guests through a woodshed full of chainsaws, a clown room, and horror-filled funhouse. Opening night is October 4, and the attraction will continue every weekend through October. Visit nightmareon190.com for more information.

Sleepy Hollow Haunted Farm

Take a walk through a forest full of blood-curdling creatures, monsters, and more on the Psycho Path at Sleepy Hollow Farm. The Clown Cabin is full of the spine-chilling characters from everyone’s worst nightmares. Hop on the RIP Ride, a clown-driven, terrifying full-speed school bus ride that will leave you breathless, and which is only available to guests ages 18 and over. Visit sleepyhollowauburn.com for more information.

Whether you prefer thrilling chills or heart-racing horror, there’s plenty of spookiness to go around this Halloween season. From ghouls to gore, pumpkins to the paranormal, the season promises to bewitch us all.