It’s an Outdoor Theatrical Experience

The woods at the Metrowest YMCA Outdoor Center in Hopkinton will once again come alive this fall, as the beloved Haunt returns for another season of frights and delights. Thanks to the continued partnership between the Hopkinton Center for the Arts (HCA) and the Metrowest YMCA, this year brings an entirely new theme that promises to elevate the experience to new and spectacular heights.

The Carnival has rolled into Deadwoodville, and this traveling circus has decided to stay for a fortnight—where ghostly jugglers toss flaming skulls and skeletal acrobats soar through the fog with a dazzling blend of big top performances, sideshow acts, and carnival games. The anticipation will leave visitors spellbound as the living and the departed prepare for a union that defies the grave.

New Format for The Greatest Show of The Undead

This year marks a significant change in how visitors experience Deadwoodville. Instead of tours departing every 10 minutes, the Haunt now operates on a show-based schedule with performances accommodating up to 100 guests each at 6, 7, 8, and 9 P.M., each night. This new format enables more thrill-seekers and enthusiasts of the unusual to experience the eerie and bizarre community of the undead. Make no mistake, the Haunt is a performance not to be missed.

The interactive feel that has made Deadwoodville such a hit in the past remains intact, with members of the undead town guiding visitors through the woods, but this year it’s the carnival folk who steal the show. Picture jugglers, aerialists, and carnival barkers—all undead, of course—performing under a big top tent nestled deep in the forest.

Special Add-On Experiences

For those looking to make their visit extra memorable, Deadwoodville is offering some exciting enhancements. A $100 per person upgrade allows guests to become featured performers in the show itself—a creative way to become part of the action rather than just watching from the sidelines.

Celebrations: Groups celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, or just Halloween can book a party package that includes 12 tickets and a dedicated picnic area before the show. Imagine gathering your friends for pizza and cake at a picnic table in the woods before embarking on a haunted carnival adventure, with the birthday person receiving special treatment during the show. Only one party package is available per time slot, so booking early is recommended.

Family-Friendly Option Returns

Good news for families with younger children: the “not so scary” daytime version of Deadwoodville is back after a one-year hiatus. During these special daytime performances, the lights stay on and actors focus on engagement rather than scares, allowing families to enjoy the show, play the games, and experience the spectacle without the intense frights.

A Shift in Tone

Those who attended last year might remember that Deadwoodville leaned into more adult themes. This year, the HCA and YMCA partnership has deliberately shifted its approach, focusing instead on clever, family-friendly entertainment that maintains the excitement that makes a Haunt worthwhile.

The emphasis is now squarely on the circus theme, with a few jump scares and spooky moments mixed in—because what’s Halloween without a bit of fright? Those with specific concerns are encouraged to call ahead, and the staff can provide guidance on what to expect and how to navigate the experience.

Proven Success

Over the past two years, Deadwoodville has welcomed approximately 1,200 visitors each season, with shows selling out regularly. The new format promises to accommodate even more guests while enhancing the overall experience for both visitors and performers.

The partnership between the Hopkinton Center for the Arts and the Metrowest YMCA remains a perfect match. The wooded setting at the YMCA Outdoor Center provides an ideal location for immersive entertainment while maintaining that essential spooky-woods atmosphere.

Beyond the Haunt

Deadwoodville is just one part of a packed October schedule! The Wicked Weekend features the Wicked Pickle pickleball tournament at the YMCA’s new pickleball courts on Saturday, October 25th, followed by the family-friendly 5K run at the Outdoor Center on Sunday, October 26th.

The 5K starts at 9 AM this year—earlier than previous years—leaving participants the rest of their day free. Dogs are welcome, and there are prizes for winners plus a special short dash for young children.

More on the Wicked Pickle and the Wicked 5K HERE.

Whether you’re looking for spine-tingling scares, family-friendly fun, or a chance to become part of the show yourself, this year’s circus-themed haunt promises to be an unforgettable October experience. The Carnival has come to Deadwoodville—and you won’t want to miss it before it vanishes into the night.

Plan Your Visit to The Carnival in Deadwoodville

Where:
YMCA Outdoor Center at 45 East Street, Hopkinton
Dates and Times:
Friday and Saturday, 10/17, 10/18, 10/24, and 10/25, at 6, 7, 8, and 9 P.M.
Rain Dates:
Sunday, 10/19 & 10/26, at 5, 6, 7, and 8 P.M.
Not-So-Spooky Haunt
Sunday, 10/19 and 10/26 at 1, 2, 3 P.M.

​Timed entry for each group is at the top of the hour. Please plan to arrive at the site 10 to 15 minutes before your show time. Once the circus experience begins, it will last approximately 50 minutes. Please wear appropriate footwear and dress for being outdoors in the woods. 

Ages: 
The Friday and Saturday night shows are recommended for audiences 10 years and above, at the discretion of the parent/guardian. The Sunday afternoon show is suitable for all ages. 

THIS IS A FUNDRAISER. Proceeds raised from ticket sales to this event will support Hopkinton Center for the Arts (HCA) and MetroWest YMCA.

Special thanks to UNIBANK, the premier sponsor for this event.

TICKETS

For tickets, pricing information, and to book party packages or featured performer spots, visit: https://www.hopartscenter.org/thehaunt2025.