Haunt on the Hill
Spider tunnel among new features for display
NORWAY — Haunted houses are as much a Halloween staple as pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating.
The creators behind Haunt on the Hill, 503 Oak St. in Norway, contend this year’s decorations won’t disappoint. The display is set to open Friday and will continue nightly from 5 to 8 p.m. through Halloween.
Cathy and Pat LeBeau once again have made additions to their Halloween displays. Welcoming guests this year is a new, 150-foot spider tunnel.
“This is probably the biggest attraction expansion,” Cathy LeBeau said.
The spider web was created from 50 pounds of beef netting, usually used by butchers to wrap meat. Construction of the web starting July 23 and was finished on Labor Day.
The tunnel will be lit up at night, making it even spookier.
Those who make it through the tunnel will receive an “I survived Haunt on the Hill in Norway, MI” bracelet.
The unexpected donation of a coffin this year led to a new funeral scene.
“Guests will be able to sign a guest book, leaving special notes,” she said.
LeBeau also added new headstones to the cemetery, which is complete with a breathing grave and wailing tree. She said this was one area she felt needed some attention adding more details and more authentic looking.
LeBeau has been busy as well making her own plaster skulls from a mold.
Other new highlights include her new cowgirl trick-or-treater to welcome guests, additional paper-mache pumpkins, and interactive props for the photo booth.
LeBeau designs and creates these unique handmade props herself, which she posts on YouTube.
Many of the paper-mache pieces need to be taken in from heavy rain, so they will not be open on those evenings.
LeBeau notes Mother Nature can be brutal in October. Those planning to come see the display are reminded to check Haunt on the Hill’s Facebook page if poor weather is in the forecast, to make sure they are open.
A different scare is planned every night. The addition of spine-chilling music and lighting gives the tour a whole different creepiness.
“I work on projects all year round,” LeBeau said. “A lot of our special things have their own place each year, but we try to change it up as much as we can.”
Haunt on the Hill is free of charge and, as always, safe for all ages, though she recommends parents use their own judgement on whether a child is ready.
“Every kid is different, as well as every age is different,” she said.
This season also will feature special nights and giveaways. Tuesday is Ladies Night, Saturday is Date Night and Sunday is Family Night.
“I really encourage ladies to grab their girlfriends for dinner and drinks and stop by Haunt on the Hill — it’s fun for all ages,” LeBeau said. “But any night is fun.”
LeBeau welcomes special groups to visit. They are again expecting a group of veterans as well as Girl Scouts.
“We are excited about this year,” she said. “Looking forward to seeing familiar faces and how much kids have changed from each Halloween.”