Haunted Trail event returns to Maumee Bay Oct. 10-11

Area families, thrill-seekers and community groups are being challenged – “Do you dare enter the Haunted Trail?” which will return for its 22nd year at Oct. 10-11 at Maumee Bay State Park.

This beloved tradition, presented by SOAR and Christ United Methodist Church, Oregon, combines fright, fun and fundraising to support local causes.

Clubs, groups, and organizations are invited to Adopt a Scene on the Haunted Trail. Transform a section of the woods into a spooky masterpiece with props, decorations and live actors. Community members will vote for their favorite, and winners will be honored with trophies or awards at the Thank You Celebration on Friday, Oct. 17. Visit www.christumc.info/events/haunted-trail for info.

This year’s event will feature:

• A Half Mile of Haunting Adventure, 7-10 p.m. (both nights). Brave the eerie woods where witches cackle, ghouls lurk and zombies may follow you home. Guests can also vote for their favorite spooky scene.
• Sensory-Friendly Trail 6-7 p.m. (both nights) Trail and games open at 6 p.m. for a low-scare experience.
• Family-friend games and activities (6-9 p.m.):

        - Halloween Magic by Barnabas Collins – (both nights).

        - Oregon Police & Fire departments.

        - Community agencies with games and giveaways.

        - Face painting, fortune-telling, games, food and sweets.

         Special nighttime events

• Friday, Oct. 10 – Trunk-or-Treat, 5:30-7 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 11 – Back from the Grave Crazy Bob, former owner of The Haunted Hydro Dark Attraction Park will be making a guest appearance.

Admission to the Haunted Trail is $10 for ages 13 and older, $7 for ages 5-12 and free for children 4 and younger. Tickets and more information are available online www.christumc.info/events/haunted-trail/.

Give back, get rewarded

Those attending can support local outreach with donations.

• Coat drive – Receive free admission with an adult ticket purchase.
• Food drive – Donors receive a free game ticket.
• Hygiene for Humanity – Donors receive a free game ticket.

 Proceeds raised benefit SOAR – Supporting Individuals with Disabilities, Friends of Maumee Bay State Park and Christ United Methodist Church Outreach Programs including:

• 419 Cares, which serves unsheltered and vulnerable individuals with food, clothing, and compassion.
• Mana Pantry, which provides groceries to families in need.
• Community Kitchen, which offers weekly hot meals and fellowship.
• Other vital ministries which support families, seniors and those experiencing hardship.