Florida

There’s a new drive-through Halloween experience in Orlando — for contactless fun

Halloween this year is bound to be surreal as 2020 has been downright scary so far.

But we can’t forget that the kiddie-favorite holiday is upon us, Oct. 31.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, the ultra popular Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights in Orlando has been canceled. At Busch Gardens in Tampa, the also popular Howl O Scream is still on, but officials say that could change. It could be difficult to social distance inside a haunted house, but horror fans will have to wait and see.

One “completely contactless” event looks promising, however.

The Haunted Road in Orlando, near Walt Disney World, is a new drive-through experience, First Coast News reported.

The venue’s Instagram account — with a creepy pic of a demonic looking creature — is gaining traction.

The event was designed by interactive artist Jessica Mariko (of “DRIP” fame) with physical distancing measures in mind, from contact-free check-in by license plate, to immersive drive-in scenes.

“With the arts and entertainment industry at a standstill, and an increasing need to find new, safe outdoor entertainment, we knew it was the perfect time to develop a unique Halloween experience so everyone can enjoy a dose of horror this upcoming Halloween season, from the comfort of their car,” said Mariko, who also serves as executive producer.

So what’s it going to be like?

“As guests drive through each nightmarish scene, they’ll be immersed into a ghastly rendition of an untold story of Rapunzel as she journeys into a world of disarray, faces bloodcurdling creatures — and hundreds of shocking scares,” according to a news release.

With entertainment options slim these past few months, and drive in movie theaters popping up left and right, are people willing to try it?

Though the nighttime event is for adults, a family-friendly version will be available during the daytime on select weekends.

Tickets start at $15 per person but bookings are not available yet. Keep checking for updates at www.thehauntedroad.com.

Madeleine Marr
Miami Herald
Celebrity/real time news reporter Madeleine Marr has been with The Miami Herald since 2003. She has covered such features as travel, fashion and food. In 2007, she helped launch the newspaper’s daily People Page, attending red carpet events, awards ceremonies and press junkets; interviewing some of the biggest names in show business; and hosting her own online show. She is originally from New York City.
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