The following post is a collaboration between ‘lil Burghers and Idlewild’s HALLOWBOO. In exchange for sharing this information with you, my family received four tickets to visit Idlewild during the event. All opinions are 100% my own.
It has been a lovely start to fall in Pittsburgh, hasn’t it? With temperatures more like summer, I’m holding on to a hope that winter won’t be awful – will you go there with me? Yesterday was a perfect reminder of summer and we took advantage with a trip to Ligonier for Idlewild’s HALLOWBOO. The kids got a chance to do some “treating” and take on some of their favorite rides before the park closes.
Idlewild’s HALLOWBOO: A Pittsburgh Fall MUST!
Can I admit that in ten years of being a parent (and several invites from my cousins), I have never taken the kids to Idlewild for HALLOWBOO? Two truths here – tickets for a family of six don’t always make our budget and we aren’t big Halloween celebrators due to our faith. But the kids do like the friendly fall atmosphere of “treating” and dressing up as long as it isn’t scary. That’s where Idlewild Park comes in – adults can’t wear masks, “trick or treat” is through Story Book Forest, and the rides are separate from the treating area. We decided it was worth checking out and making our opinion!
Well, the verdict is in and Idlewild’s HALLOWBOO is a must for Pittsburghers, especially the ‘lil Burghers. The day was full of low key fun, lines were non-existent, and the treating was super memorable.
Idlewild’s HALLOWBOO: Our Experience
So what makes it a Pittsburgh must? Here’s what we experienced with the descriptions from Idlewild sprinkled in.
Trick or Treat through Story Book Forest
I’ve got fond childhood memories of enjoying Story Book Forest and watching my kids experience it has been a real joy. Adding the “treating” aspect to it is icing on the cake!
A stroll through Story Book Forest is always a beloved experience for families visiting Idlewild. Featuring a winding path through a real forest, guests visit cottages and other character scenes from fairy tales and nursery rhymes. During HALLOWBOO, kids 12 and under are provided with a complimentary trick-or-treat bag that they can use to collect delicious treats from Goldilocks, Captain Candy, Little Red Riding Hood and many more! Treats provided by Snyder of Berlin and other candy favorites.
There are various stops at the forest cottages and every single character was “on point” with their character and kindness to the kiddos. (Some of them might have been too kind or excited about the kids’ costumes and gave them extra sugary treats…ha!) Treat bags are provided – Mom and Dad might want to bring a bigger bag or walk them back to your car after treating!
HALLOWBOO SHOWS
There are several shows to take in:
Jack O Lantern Jive – Hillside Theater 4:00, 5:00, 6:00
Monster Mash – Hillside Theater 6:30
Daniel Tiger’s Grr-ific Day – Daniel Tiger Stage 1:00 and 2:15
We experienced Jack-O-Lantern Jive and Evan and Ava had a blast dancing along to popular dance songs – Arianna and Isla boogied in their seats but were trying to act too cool for school during it. 😉
Shake out your bones and get ready to dance! Our deadly dance captains are going to cast a spell on you and make you Jack-O-Lantern Jive all night long! These classic dance hits will have you bouncing through the pumpkin patch as Idlewild presents the JACK-O-LANTERN JIVE! (4:00 and 5:00 PM)
Ride Favorite Rides
With the exception of Soak Zone and the Wild Mouse, many of the rides were up and running! (Check here for rides that will be operating on your visit day.)
Among our must-visit rides were Jumpin’ Jungle to race on Bigfoot’s Mudslide and play in Jungle Catch; Balloon Race, Confusion Hill, and (Ava and Isla’s favorite) Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.
In addition to these rides, HALLOWBOO Express Rail Road is a round trip train ride. There are also two different mazes in the park (included in admission price) and a S’mores Station (additional cost)!
Ready to visit Idlewild’s HALLOWBOO?
If I’ve convinced you to add HALLOWBOO to your fall traditions, don’t worry. You have plenty of time to visit. And there’s a discount for you here as thanks for reading our blog! Here is everything you need to know:
Operating Dates (remaining in 2018) : October 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, and 28
Operating Hours: 11:30 AM to 6 PM (Story Book Forest Trick or Treat ends at 5:0o PM, rides begin at noon)
Ticket Prices: Normally $29.99, but click here to save $10 per ticket! (2 and under are free, not included in the price is a $1 amusement tax and online processing fee)
Parking: Free
Follow Idlewild Park on Twitter and Instagram or like them on Facebook to keep up with all the fun!