Brandon Twp.- Leprechauns, cannibals, and werewolves, oh my.
Visitors to the ‘Haunted Forest? can expect to see these ghoulish creatures and more during the fifth annual event set for 7 p.m.-11 p.m., Oct. 24 and 25 in the woods behind Harvey Swanson Elementary School, 209 Varsity Drive.
‘It’s not really about scary people, but about having fun while giving everyone a thrill,? said Jake Graveldinger, a Brandon High School senior who has participated in the Haunted Forest for the past four years.
The event is put on by the St. Anne youth group and features more than 50 youth and 20 adult volunteers this year, said Youth Minister Kim Zernec. Visitors walk a 1/4 mile trail, upon which props are set up and skits acted in by costumed youth.
‘The woods alone are scary,? Zernec said. ‘Even our guides who know what’s coming up get scared.?
Last year, Graveldinger played a swamp monster, enjoying the screams he evoked. He recalls also an ogre scene that scared everyone in line. This year, the skits will all be different.
Also new this year will be a haunted hayride.
‘Every year we try to get bigger and better and do different things,? said Zernec, who recommends the Haunted Forest for ages 7 and up, ‘unless they’re really good at being scared.?
Admission to the Haunted Forest is $6 per person or $20 for family up to 5, or $5 per person with a donation of non-perishable goods for the Ortonville Community Emergency Fund. Haunted hayride cost is $1 per person.
There will also be a raffle and glow necklaces and refreshments including homemade caramel corn for sale. All proceeds will be used for the youth mission trip to Pennsylvania planned for next June. Details: 248-627-3965.