The first signs of autumn are here: There’s a bite in the air, the leaves are picking up color, and the volunteers at the Haunted Fortress of Stanford are hard at work getting ready for October. This year the Fortress will feature a circus theme. Greg Arent, directing operations, is reluctant to reveal any surprises but hints clowns may be involved.
Preparing the Haunted Fortress for a new season — in this case, its 28th — is a meticulous process. Arent’s team checks the extensive wiring for safety, inspects the structures to identify and repair any off-season wear and tear, and installs incremental upgrades to enhance the Fortress experience. As always, the Haunted Fortress committee relies on the generosity of skilled local craftsmen who are essential for upkeep and improvements.
As a community effort, the Fortress staff encourages participation. Anyone interested in being a performer or a guide is welcome to show up at 5 p.m. the day of a show. Arent said, “You pick a scene, we provide the costume, we provide the makeup, we even provide the food!”
The Haunted Fortress’s 2025 season kicks off Friday, Oct. 3, and runs for four weekends. Hours are 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Sundays. Sensory-friendly shows, without sound effects or scary actors, are scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5, and 2 to 4 p.m. on Oct. 19.
The Haunted Fortress of Stanford is located at 11 Creamery Road, Stanfordville. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and children 12 and under. The sensory-friendly shows are free, with donations welcome.