Halloween isn't a day: It's a season. And we're at the height of it now, with a host of local attractions offering a bloody good scare ... or not.
Whether you want to ignite your fright or prefer to take a fear-free hayride, there are plenty of pre-trick-or-treat events for you. To fit your fear factor, we've complied a list of activities that range from fun to fright to nerves of steel.
No matter which boo venue you choose, here are some insider if-you-go tips:
• If you go for a super-scary event, know that you can chicken out. Most haunts have "safe words" you can use to get an early exit and low-scare areas, such as the concession area or bonfire, where you can chill. Some also have low-scare days.
• Don't wear your designer duds, favorite outfit or snazzy shoes. Haunted houses, hayrides and marshmallow roasts are messy affairs.
• Leave your cellphone behind. Although it's tempting to use the flashlight function or take a selfie with a zombie, it's more likely that you'll drop it, lose it or damage it.
• Lastly, do not touch the creepy characters you encounter. While the ghouls and goblins might seem all too real, they're actors doing their job — entertaining you.
Have nerves of steel
Haunted Basement: This is like being in an episode of "American Horror Story," only you can't turn it off. Before you enter this immersive theater experience, you have to present your ID and sign a waiver. You will be taunted, frightened and, unless you take a no-touch or Fraidy Cat tour, you will get handled. 6:30-11:45 p.m. Thu.-Fri.; 2-4 p.m. & 6-11:45 p.m. Sat.; 6-8 p.m. & 9-10:30 p.m. Sun. Ends Nov. 2. $15-$30. Rosedale Center Mall, 10 Rosedale Center, Roseville. hauntedbasement.org.
