Halloween season is back in full swing, pumpkin spice lattes are flowing through veins, and decorations are creeping in on every street: October is finally here. After being back in school for what seems like an eternity, we have finally reached the long-awaited heart of fall, so here are the must-dos for this spooky season.
Field of Screams
If you are in the mood for a scare, Field of Screams is the destination for you. Rated the #1 scream park in Maryland, DC, Virginia and Delaware, it is located in Olney. It is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays all throughout the month of October. Its five attractions include the haunted trail, ax throwing, the slaughter factory, trail of terror and carnival town, each bringing the ultimate screams from everyone who enters.
Markoff’s Haunted Forest
Open Oct. 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 31 and Nov. 1, 2, Markoff’s Haunted Forest is yet another terror attraction for this season. Located in Poolesville for the past 25 years, it is the original Halloween destination. The most exciting element to Markoff’s is finding out the theme of the year. The theme last year was Transylvania, and this year’s theme is Black Death. They offer a range of packages, including their famous 40-foot zip lines over crowds and bonfires at night. “My favorite part about Halloween is going to Markoff’s with my friends because it gets scarier every year with the new themes,” senior Bailey Goldstein said.
Fright Fest at Six Flags America
From Sept. 21 to Nov. 3, yet another spooky nighttime attraction at Six Flags America located in Bowie, features haunted mazes in “the chambers of hell” and “twisted fairy tales” 3-D haunted house. Unlike Markoff’s and Field of Screams, Fright Fest offers a full day of other festive and spooky activities and rides before the nighttime events begin.
Butler’s Orchard
If screams aren’t for you, Butler’s Orchard is the best local orchard to feed your fall cravings. The Pumpkin Festival is Oct. 14, 19, 20, 26, and 27 and Nov. second and third. Aside from just pumpkin picking, the festival offers more than 15 activities and events, including favorites like hayrides, a corn maze, pony rides and pumpkin cannons.
Green Meadows Petting Farm
If you are looking for the best fall all around attraction, I’ve got just the place for you. Although a little ways away near Urbana, Green Meadows is jam packed with all sorts of events this Halloween season. This year’s first Pumpkin Carving Contest is from Oct.11-12, 18-19 and 25-26, so it is not too late to plan your visit with the chance to win $100 for first place and $50 for second place. Portions of the contest proceeds are donated to the Cancer Support Foundation.