Frightful fun at Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream

By Stacy Rausch

Looking for a Halloween event for the whole family? Mark your calendars and plan your Williamsburg vacation now for some frightening fun at Busch Gardens Williamsburg! Starting today, the park kicks off its ghoulishly popular Howl-O-Scream event and will be open Fridays-Sundays through Oct. 31.

My family returns again and again for Howl-O-Scream, and we have a blast every year. By day, the friendly characters are perfect for our family of 4.  First we head to the Sesame Street Forest of Fun, Busch Gardens’ newest “KIDsiderate” attraction. Music and special light-up displays fill the area where the kids can explore the playgrounds, enjoy family-friendly rides and meet their favorite Sesame Street characters. This year we’re planning on lunch with Count Von Count and the rest of the Sesame Street Gang at Castle O’Sullivan in the Ireland. Next, we’ll head off to the Count’s Halloween Spooktacular, a kid-friendly show at Prince Elmo’s Castle. Dressed in their very own Halloween costumes, the Count and his Sesame Street pals celebrate in Spooktacular with dancing, singing, music and lots of Halloween fun.

As the sun begins to set and the children wear out, the ghostly spirits starts to rise.  It’s time for the kids to head home with Grandma and Grandpa so that my husband and I can enjoy a good scare at the 6 featured haunted houses. Our first stop: Revenge of Pompeii.  Then we’ll take in the “Franken Rock In da Haus” show at Oktoberfest, a high energy Rock show featuring Frankenstein and his monster rocker friends.

When you’re ready to call it a night, you’ll find some of the best Williamsburg hotels  just moments from Busch Gardens. Here are my top five picks for families:

"Nickelodeon your stay" at the Williamsburg Marriott and the kids will love the cool activity kits, pillowcases and books that come with this special package!

1. Days Hotel Busch Gardens Area
2. Parkside Resort
3. Williamsburg Marriott
4. Courtyard By Marriott Williamsburg
5. Country Inn & Suites by Carson, Williamsburg East (Busch Gardens Area)

What a day I can’t wait and I’ll be sure to update you with pictures after.

Related resources

• Williamsburg hotels
• Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens, Williamsburg
• Nickelodeon your stay at Marriott

Stacy Rausch, working mother of 2 very lively, energetic boys ages 4 and 5.  Her hobbies include family camping trips, and finding new fun and family friendly adventures spots.

Tagged: Family time