How Long is Scarefest at Alton Towers?
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Alton Towers’ Scarefest is one of the UK’s most thrilling Halloween events, drawing in crowds year after year with its heart-pounding attractions and chilling atmosphere. If you’re planning a visit, knowing how long Scarefest lasts is key to making the most of your spooky adventure. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the duration of Scarefest, when it takes place, and what to expect throughout the season.
What is Scarefest?
Scarefest is Alton Towers’ annual Halloween celebration, transforming the theme park into a haunted playground filled with scare mazes, spooky attractions, live entertainment, and night rides on your favorite roller coasters. With a mix of terrifying experiences for adults and family-friendly Halloween fun, Scarefest offers something for all age groups. It’s a bucket list event for horror fans and thrill-seekers alike.
When Does Scarefest Start and End?
Scarefest typically begins in early October and runs through Halloween. In 2024, Scarefest is expected to run from Saturday, 5th October to Thursday, 31st October. The event spans just under a month, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the spooky season at Alton Towers.
Key Dates for Scarefest 2024
• Start Date: Saturday, 5th October 2024
• End Date: Thursday, 31st October 2024
• Operating Days: Scarefest generally operates on selected days throughout October. The event is most often held on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) and throughout the half-term holidays, when the park extends its hours to accommodate more guests.
Extended Opening Hours
One of the standout features of Scarefest is the extended opening hours. During Scarefest, the park stays open until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, allowing guests to experience their favorite rides in the dark. The night-time rides are a highlight for many, as coasters like Wicker Man, Nemesis, and The Smiler take on an entirely new level of thrill under the cover of darkness.
Why Visit Scarefest?
If you love Halloween, Scarefest is the ultimate destination for spooky fun and adrenaline-packed thrills. Beyond the scare mazes and eerie decorations, you’ll also get to enjoy:
• Immersive Scare Zones: Walk through themed areas with live actors ready to give you a fright.
• Spine-Chilling Mazes: Test your nerves in terrifying walk-through attractions like “The Attic” and “Altonville Mine Tours.”
• Family-Friendly Activities: For younger visitors, Scarefest offers the Freaky Fun Zone and CBeebies Land Monster Ball, making it a great event for the whole family.
• Night Rides: Experience Alton Towers’ famous roller coasters like never before, with night-time rides that add an extra layer of excitement.
Top Tips for Visiting Scarefest
1. Book in Advance: Scarefest is an incredibly popular event, and tickets often sell out, especially closer to Halloween. Booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out.
2. Plan for Peak Dates: Half-term and weekends tend to be busier, so plan accordingly to avoid longer wait times.
3. Upgrade to Fastrack: For a smoother experience, consider upgrading to a Fastrack ticket, which lets you skip the queues for rides and attractions.
4. Dress Warmly: Since Scarefest is held during autumn, the temperatures can drop in the evenings. Be sure to dress warmly, especially if you plan on staying until the park closes.
5. Explore the Park at Night: Some of the best moments at Scarefest come after the sun sets. The eerie lighting, fog effects, and night rides make for an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
Scarefest at Alton Towers is a must-visit event for anyone looking to embrace the spooky season. Running for nearly a month from early October until Halloween night, it’s packed with thrills, scares, and fun for everyone. Whether you’re braving the scare mazes, exploring the haunted zones, or enjoying the rides after dark, Scarefest is guaranteed to deliver a Halloween experience like no other.
So, mark your calendars and prepare for a frightfully good time at Alton Towers’ Scarefest!