Every autumn, as the leaves turn and the air grows crisp in Virginia's Shenandoah County, a unique transformation takes place inside a cavernous warehouse usually reserved for the nation's grandest parade floats. This is the home of American Fright Night, a one-of-a-kind haunted house experience that draws thrill-seekers and families alike. In this episode of "Tourism Tuesday," host Janet Michael, joined by co-host Kary Haun, sat down with Ashley Proctor, Director of Events and Marketing for Shenandoah Caverns, and Bo Wills, the creative and maintenance director behind Fright Night, to pull back the curtain on this beloved local tradition.
The conversation opens with a sense of excitement and nostalgia, as Kary recalls the annual anticipation for Fright Night and the unmistakable signs of fall in Shenandoah County—pumpkin spice, local potato chips, and the buzz of community events. But it's the transformation of the American Celebration on Parade building that truly captures the imagination. Bo and Ashley share how the idea for Fright Night was born from a desire to do something special with the space, which houses massive parade floats from the Rose Bowl and Thanksgiving Day parades. When the opportunity finally arose, the team leapt into action, designing a haunted house that is as creative as it is immersive.
Building Fright Night is no small feat. The team has just a month to construct elaborate sets, design new scares, and coordinate a growing cast of volunteer actors—many of them local students eager to unleash their inner ghouls. Bo describes the joy of seeing volunteers, often quiet in everyday life, come alive in costume, delighting in the freedom to scare and entertain. The event is constantly evolving, with new scenes and layouts each year to keep even returning guests on their toes.
Accessibility is a point of pride for the organizers. With 40,000 square feet to work with, the team ensures that 90% of the haunt is wheelchair accessible, a rarity among haunted attractions. Special "scare-free" nights and family-friendly events like trunk-or-treat make Fright Night welcoming for all ages and comfort levels. Ashley details the logistics of ticketing, group sizes, and the careful pacing that allows each group to enjoy the experience at their own speed—whether they're sprinting through in terror or savoring every detail.
Beyond Fright Night, the conversation highlights the rich tapestry of events and attractions that make Shenandoah County a destination in its own right. From the historic caverns and the whimsical parade float museum to wine festivals, farm-to-table dinners, and live theater, there truly is something for everyone. Kary reflects on the county's unique blend of rural charm and vibrant community spirit, encouraging listeners to explore all that the region has to offer.
As the episode draws to a close, the sense of community and creativity that fuels American Fright Night is unmistakable. It's more than just a haunted house—it's a celebration of local talent, tradition, and the joy of coming together to create something unforgettable. Whether you're a fan of jump scares or prefer your autumn festivities a little tamer, Shenandoah County's Fright Night promises a memorable experience for all.
