38th Annual Halloween Haunts

We are so glad you found us, and welcome!

Here is a bit more on what to expect.

• The event includes a guided walk through the Enchanted Forest where you meet costumed characters and see hundreds of Jack-o-lanterns.
• The event ends in the Visitor Center where you can enjoy a sweet snack, live animals, and shop the Nature Store.
• The event best suits families and/or youth groups with children ages 4-10. There must be at least one adult for every five children in your group.
• Hike groups accommodate up to 16 people. Your group may be mixed with other families.
• The program runs rain or shine. There are no refunds for inclement weather.
• Watch this short 2-minute video to get a sneak peak.

Not a member? Join today and get member benefits now – through the end of 2026. Benefits include Halloween Haunts priority registration and ticket discount, free admission to Cider Sunday, free parking, discounts to programs/events, and more. Visit https://www.friendsofwehr.org/ and become a member, then register for the event through the link above. 

The walk follows woodchip and boardwalk trails in the dark for approximately 40 minutes. Some parts of the path are uneven and require stair climbing. Wehr strives to make our events accessible to all visitors. Please contact Emily.brown@milwaukeecountywi.gov to arrange accommodations and list in your registration.

• Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
• Advance ticket purchase is required. No tickets will be sold at the event.
• Adults and children of all ages must pay admission. Babies/children in carriers/backpacks are free. Strollers are not permitted.
• This event occurs in rain or shine. There will be no refunds due to inclement weather.
• There is a 32-ticket maximum purchase per individual.
• Your ticket is for a specific hike start time. Hikes begin every 7 minutes between 6-8:30 pm.
• Please arrive at Wehr 15 minutes before your scheduled walk time. We do not guarantee you a hike if you arrive late.
• Ticket receipt must be presented at check-in. Bring a printed copy or be ready to display it on your phone.
• You will be checking in outside the front of our visitor center. Please provide a copy of your confirmation receipt to members of your group who will arrive separately.

We need your help to bring the Enchanted Forest to life. From carving Jack-o-Lantern works of art to performing as a kooky character, there is a job for everyone.

Pumpkin Carving

We are looking for volunteers to create Jack-o-lantern works of art to line our Enchanted Forest trail. We provides pumpkins and pumpkin carving tools. Volunteers can attend the carving day at Wehr on October 15th or can arrange to pick-up pumpkins on Oct. 13th to carve and return them by October 16th. Corporate groups, service learners and clubs are welcome to participate! Please contact Sophia.Detweiler@milwaukeecountywi.gov to register.

Decorators 

Help our staff decorate the Wehr Nature Center visitor center interior and exterior in preparation for our Halloween Haunts event. Hang crepe paper and balloons, help with hanging lighting outdoors, and prepare outdoor displays.

Costumed Character Performers

Wehr is looking for performers to portray our cast of nature-themed, family friendly characters for our Halloween Haunts event. Each character performs a short (3-5 minute) skit for groups as they are led along the Enchanted Forest trail. There are up to 300 visitors participating each evening, divided into 22 groups. A short audition (which can be virtual if needed) is required. Attending rehearsal on Monday, October 13th is preferred. You can choose to perform one evening or all three depending on your availability. Costumes and scripts are provided. Contact Beverly.Bryant@milwaukeecountywi.gov for details.

Sign up as a volunteer at https://www.friendsofwehr.org/volunteer.