Christine Williams, left, Robert Covington and Claire Covington pose with their dogs for a portrait inside the Haunted Barn Party in 2018 in Ethel.
Christine Williams points at a bat and giant spider web inside the Haunted Barn Party in 2018 in Ethel.
Skeletons set the scene of a ship’s galley inside the Haunted Barn Party in 2018 in Ethel.
Organizers are working hard to get ready for the fourth annual special needs haunted barn party out in Ethel. Like a witch to her broom, however, the overseers need a little help getting the event off the ground.
Each year the Williams sisters open up their big horse barn and deck it out in seasonal decorations and activity stations in order to host the unique Halloween party.
What makes the operation special is that it is geared toward children who deal with a variety of special needs. The Williams family includes a member who lives with severe autism so organizers are acutely aware of the extra consideration that is required for a fun night out.
A press release from the organizers noted that, “The annual Halloween Barn party is carefully planned with heightened awareness of the special needs community. Twenty horse stalls are decked out in with spooky, not scary or gory, Halloween attractions.”
This year the non-profit organization is hoping to take the production to the next level by soliciting donations through a GoFundMe account. As of Thursday morning the fundraising campaign had brought in $250 of its stated $5,000 goal.
The release explained, “In its fourth year of operation, the demand and popularity of this event has grown drastically. Hosted by the Williams’ sisters, staffed only by family and volunteers — this event needs your financial support. It takes about two months to transform this active horse barn into The Annual Barn Party. Please help us to make this year’s Barn Party the Halloween destination for special needs families!”
There will be plenty of spooky season treats that are intentionally concocted in order to meet dietary restrictions. Festive happenings will include pumpkin decorating, face painting, and decorated photo sessions. The release noted that all areas are wheelchair accessible and special consideration is taken to avoid sensory overload.
The special needs Halloween party will take place from 3-5 p.m. on Oct. 26 and again from 5-7 p.m on Oct. 31. The haunted barn is located at 258 Oyler Road, Ethel.
Donations can be made online at www.gofundme.com/f/1qo8b6frio.Additional information can be obtained through email at barnparty@outlook.com.
