Halloweekend in the ’Burg: A guide
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SUMMARY: The countdown to Halloween has begun! Attend a mix of JMU-sponsored and local events to get in the spirit.
Halloween is just around the corner, and Dukes have their pick from a wide variety of festivities both on and off campus. There is something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a good scare or a more subdued celebration.
Here’s a guide for Halloweekend in the ’Burg:
JMU-sponsored
The University Program Board invites you to Scream on Screen on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 8 to 11 p.m. This free event allows for attendees in costume or cozy attire to grab some popcorn and settle in for a night of scary movies.
The University Recreation Center’s annual Nightmare at UREC will be held Thursday, Oct. 30, from 8:30 to 11 p.m. Take your pick from various Halloween activities, such as braving the Haunted Hallway, putting on your best disguise for the costume contest and getting creative with pumpkin carving. This event is free to JMU students, and no registration is required; simply show your JACard at entry.
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| Nightmare at UREC’s carved pumpkins in 2024 |
Greater Harrisonburg area
Hosted by Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance, the Skeleton Festival will be held Saturday, Oct. 25, from 1 to 5 p.m. This family-friendly event includes a pet costume parade, a musical ghost tour, Sip and Stroll, and much more.
For those seeking something a little more exhilarating, Fear Forest, located about 20 minutes east of campus, offers three chilling attractions: Fear Forest, Fear Crops and Fear Factory. Tickets start at $35, and more information on dates of operation can be found on its website.
Funky’s Skate Center is putting on a Halloween Skate-tacular on Thursday, Oct. 23, from 5:30 to 10 p.m. The first two hours are dedicated to activities tailored to kids 12 and younger, followed by a roller derby demo at 7:30 p.m. The last two hours of the night offer activities tailored for older age groups. Ticket purchase includes skate rental; see the website for more information and pricing.
MACROCK presents the annual Golden Pony Halloween Cover Show, featuring six local cover bands performing their take on well-known artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Weezer and My Chemical Romance. This event is for people age 18 and older, and will take place Friday, Oct. 31, at The Golden Pony. Doors open at 6 p.m., and music begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased upon arrival.
