Weekend Ticket: Haunted trail ready for Friday 13th

Published 12:01 am Thursday, October 12, 2017

 

NATCHEZ — Just in time for Halloween, “IT” is out in theaters and Pennywise the Clown is ready to disturb you more at Cox Hill.

The tractor is getting revved up for Cox Hill Haunted Trail’s debut at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The hay-ride style event will continue each weekend until an abbreviated evening on Halloween, which is on a Tuesday this year.

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“I am anxious to see how ‘IT’ is going to go over,” event co-organizer Crystal Warren said. “I don’t like clowns. To me, they belong in a circus. But everyone seems to love a clown and his costume is exact.”

The ride through the trail takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes, Warren said, as participants are navigated through more than 10 scenes. Characters include Jason from “Friday the 13th,” Leatherface from “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and Freddy Krueger from “A Nightmare on Elm Street.”

Depending on the popularity the night you go, wait times can be as long as an hour. However, Warren said organizers provide entertainment, including DJs, booths for children and a bonfire. The trail also has a concession stand.

“We have had one night where 500 to 600 people came,” Warren said. “We were out until 2 to 3 a.m. making sure everyone got what they paid for.”

Warren said the event is a safe environment — with security provided — and fun for the whole family. No alcohol is allowed.

“We provide a lot for the kids to do,” Warren said. “It is a fun, safe place to go.”

The trail ride is on Springfield Road. Warren said the trail would be on the right side of the road if you are coming from Liberty Road and is visible and well lit.

Tickets are $15 per adult and $5 for children 12 and under. The dates are Oct. 13-14, Oct. 20-21, Oct. 27-28 and Oct. 31. On Halloween night, due to it being a school night, the trail will only have three rides.

Warren said the money raised would benefit several families.

“All the money goes toward helping people,” Warren said. “We have several families who have been affected by fires and deaths in the family.”

Warren said she hopes she is able to raise $4,000 to $5,000 this year to help the families.

“I am looking forward to being able to hand over that money to these people,” Warren said. “It is the best feeling in the world.”