Spooky season in Mercer County

Last updated: October 6, 2023

It’s that time of year when things go bump in the night, and Mercer County, West Virginia, is no exception. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, our area comes alive with eerie events and spine-tingling attractions that are sure to make your hair stand on end. Whether you’re a ghost hunter, a mystery enthusiast or just looking for a frightfully good time, Mercer County has something for everyone this spooky season.

Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park

Dates: Fridays & Saturdays in October 

Times: 6-10 p.m.

If you’re brave enough to explore the darker side of Mercer County, Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park is a must-visit. This abandoned park features three bone-chilling attractions that are sure to give you the chills. First, tour the abandoned amusement park. Wander the ghostly grounds before sunset and discover the supernatural remnants of a once-thriving amusement park. Venture alone to the Indian Burial Ground if you dare or cross the lake to uncover the fate of the park’s young visitors. Bring your own flashlights, cameras and paranormal equipment, and go on the self-guided photo history tour. The second attraction offered is the Twisted Nightmare, a one-of-a-kind haunted house. Within the gates, you’ll never know what’s around each corner! Lastly, when darkness falls and the fog rolls in, mysterious things happen. Can you Brave The Night? Challenge the darkness, but don’t forget to bring your flashlights! 

Gary Bowling House of Art Night School

Dates: Fridays & Saturdays in October 

Time: 8-11 p.m.

Full of magic, mystery, history and art, Gary Bowling’s House of Art (GBHA) is a unique experience every visitor should add to their Mercer County trip. Along with this quirky claim to fame, the building, The Ramsey School, which was opened in 1926, is also said to have its fair share of paranormal activity. Find out for yourself at the Night School tour of the building that will send shivers down your spine! 

Cool Cruisin’ Nights Creepy Cruise

Date: October 21

Time: 5-10 p.m.

The Cool Cruisin’ Nights that you know and love with a creepy twist! Against the backdrop of artist murals and historic buildings, enjoy the Cool Cruisin Nights Creepy Cruise on October 21. Experience a Cruise-In and Trunk-and-Treating in the Mercer Street Grassroots District. It’s a view worth experiencing, especially when the sun goes down.

Trunk-or-Treat & 5k Race 

Date: October 28

Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Bluefield is your ultimate Halloween destination on October 28! This fun-filled day begins with a morning race, followed by a day of festivities at Bluefield City Park. Expect bounce houses, food trucks, costume and trunk decorating contests, pumpkin carving and a candy extravaganza. What’s more, the Halloween 5k Race isn’t just about the run; it’s a way to give back. Proceeds will benefit the Bluefield High School Parent Teacher Student Organization. Race options include the 5k City Park Hustle Fun Run (walker-friendly), the 5k Haunted Trail Run and a $1 Kids Bounce House Run (1-5 p.m.). For the 9th annual Trunk-or-Treat, gates open at 1 p.m. with creatively decorated trunks scattered throughout Bluefield City Park for added excitement. It’s a spooktacular day you won’t want to miss!

The Bramwell Spooktacular 

Date: October 28

Time: 2-10 p.m.

Experience the enchanting charm of Bramwell, renowned for its stately mansions and rich history, as it unveils a world of surprises and perhaps a few spooky delights on October 28 at The Bramwell Spooktacular! Start your day by sampling local chef’s creations at the Chili Cook-Off. Later, enjoy The Bramwell BOO event, featuring a variety of free activities. This includes a bounce house, maze, pumpkin painting, carnival games for prizes, a selfie station  and face painting. Trick-or-treating will follow, as well as costume contests for a range of ages. As the sun sets, prepare to be entranced by the Haunted Happenings, which will feature a haunted hay maze, carnival games, the Bramwell Walking Ghost Tour and an eerie Haunted Hay Ride.

Mercer Monster Mash 

Date: October 31

Time: 6 p.m.

Get ready to bring Mercer Street back from the grave! On October 31, join in the Halloween fun during the Mercer Monster Mash with trick-or-treating, a costume contest, a performance of pumpkin carving, live music and more. The street will be closed from Bee Street to 7th Street for a safe and memorable Halloween experience.

From ghost hunting and solving mysteries to family-friendly fun, Mercer County has everything you need for a hauntingly good time this spooky season! Visit our calendar for more information on upcoming events. 

Photo by Hauntedhammy