The James Logan Courier

By Mia Tungol, Courier Staff Writer

Santa Clara's Great America tried something new this October. The usual family environment amusement park was turned into Halloween Haunt.

As part this new Halloween extravaganza, Great America had its employees dress up in frightening costumes to scare the public. In addition, there were certain areas designated as the “scare zones” specifically made for the employees to scare all. However, if a person became afraid, there were areas where the public would be in the “safe zone.” This included the first aid station and the restrooms. Also, in case an individual wanted to prepare themselves, the fog would indicate that that is where the monsters are more likely to be.

Throughout the park, there were five different walk-through mazes, each with a different theme: CarnEvil, Club Blood, Slaughterhouse, Werewolf Canyon, and Cornstalkers. Each maze had certain monsters and characters that fit each theme. As the public walked through these mazes, the staff would follow and scare them.

Other than scare zones and mazes, there were also shows for everyone to enjoy: Ed Alonzo's Psycho Circus of Magic & Mayhem, Comedy Sportz Ghostly, Improv and Dave Hill's Haunted Hypnotics. The amusement park attractions were also still used during this event. Most rides seemed to fit the occasion because of the sudden increase in speed.

For all of those who are brave enough to take on this ghastly, Halloween environment, California’s Great America will also have this event open next year during October. This is a special ticketed event, which costs $39.99 for general admission. However, if you buy a regular season pass next year, it would cost $24.99, and if you are willing to buy a Gold or Platinum season pass, the admission is free.