The differences during Halloween events
The Halloween season has only just ended, but how did we find it? From big theme parks with impressive sets and extensive scare zones to smaller events where volunteers pull out all the stops. Halloween is celebrated in all sorts of ways in the Netherlands.
This year we visited Scare Me in Almere, a small-scale event run entirely by volunteers. The visit showed us once again that you don't necessarily have to go to a big theme park for a good Halloween experience. But what exactly are the differences?
Scare Me: small, but Halloween everywhere
At Scare Me, we were greeted straight away on arrival by the owner, Perry Mulder. He talked so enthusiastically about his event that we were already excited before we'd seen a single haunted house.
You see that passion everywhere. The sets are beautifully made, which is all the more impressive when you consider that everything runs on volunteers. Just like at the big parks, there was Halloween everywhere you looked, only on a smaller scale, of course.
What struck us most was how much attention had gone into the different haunted houses. Each house had its own atmosphere and the actors did everything they could to scare the living daylights out of visitors.
Through the haunted house with your own group
One of the biggest differences we noticed was during our visit to the haunted houses. Despite the crowds, at Scare Me we went in with just our own party. No long line of strangers in front of and behind us.
As a result, every scene had room to breathe and the actors really had time for us.
Halloween at big theme parks
At parks such as Walibi Holland and Toverland, Halloween is done on a completely different scale. Extensive scare zones, impressive sets, large numbers of actors and special shows make sure you're fully immersed in the Halloween atmosphere.
Walibi Holland in particular is known for its intense Fright Nights. As soon as night falls, the park transforms into a world full of ghouls. In the various scare zones, actors can make you jump at any moment.
Unexpected encounters with actors
Interactions can be surprisingly personal at big parks too. During a visit to Halloween Fright Nights, for example, a scare zone happened to be quiet for a moment. The actors saw their chance and suddenly all came at us. It wasn't just terrifying, it was also enormous fun.
It shows that personal interactions certainly don't only happen at smaller events. Sometimes you just need to be in the right place at the right time.
Grand sets and complete themed areas
Where big theme parks really excel is in the spectacle. They have the space and resources to transform entire areas into terrifying worlds.
Toverland is also investing more and more in this. Its Halloween event has grown considerably over the years and is known for its extensive theming. Think impressive sets, atmospheric lighting and several scare zones, each with its own story.
A striking example is the gigantic wooden horse that could be found in the park during Halloween. With its red lighting and impressive size, it's a real eye-catcher.
Scares between the rides
Big theme parks also have another important advantage: you can combine the scares with rides. Enjoy roller coasters and other rides during the day, then explore the scare zones and haunted houses in the evening. That easily makes for a complete day out.
Big or small: you don't have to choose
As far as we're concerned, both big and small Halloween events have their own charm. The differences lie mainly in the way you experience Halloween.
The biggest differences at a glance:
- Big theme parks: impressive sets, extensive scare zones, shows and rides. A complete day out with plenty of spectacle.
- Small events: atmospheric sets, creative haunted houses and often more personal interaction with actors.
Our visit to Scare Me showed that a smaller event can hold its own against the big names. In the end, it's not about the size of the event, but about the experience you take away from it.
