Valleyfair in Shakopee, Minnesota, is gearing up for its biggest Halloween celebration of the year. ValleyScare, the state’s most popular fall attraction, will be open on Friday and Saturday evenings from September 19 through October 31. The event promises five new indoor mazes, four fog‑choked scare zones, and after‑dark coaster rides that wind through the park’s haunted landscape.
Nighttime thrills for daring guests
When the sun sets, Valleyfair transforms into a night‑time nightmare. Guests can wander through mazes with themes ranging from “Undead Vikings” to “Slaughterhouse” scenarios, each designed to test nerves and deliver jump‑scares. The four scare zones are shrouded in fog and populated by actors who roam the pathways, adding an extra layer of suspense for thrill‑seekers. In addition, several of the park’s roller coasters will operate after dark, offering a high‑speed ride through the Halloween‑themed scenery.
Daytime ‘Tricks and Treats’ for families
For families with younger children, Valleyfair offers a lighter, daytime celebration called “Tricks and Treats.” The program runs on Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., beginning September 26 and continuing through November 1. Activities include safe trick‑or‑treating stations, seasonal food vendors, and kid‑focused entertainment. The goal is to let families enjoy the fall atmosphere without the intense scares of the evening mazes.
Additional Halloween attractions in Minnesota
ValleyScare is part of a broader wave of Halloween events across the Twin Cities region. The Minnesota Zoo has announced its annual Jack‑O‑Lantern Spectacular, and the Mall of America is partnering with Twin Cities Fear Fest to host its own haunted experiences. For those looking to extend the fright beyond Valleyfair, a curated list of the eight scariest haunted houses and hayrides in Minnesota is available online.
Ticket information and safety measures
Tickets for ValleyScare can be purchased through Valleyfair’s website or at the gate. The park encourages guests to arrive early, as popular mazes tend to fill quickly. All attractions follow the park’s standard safety protocols, including limited capacity in each maze and regular sanitization of high‑traffic areas. Visitors are asked to wear masks in indoor spaces and follow staff directions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Plan your visit
Valleyfair is located at 1 Valleyfair Drive, Shakopee, MN 55379, just off I‑35W. Parking is available in the park’s lots, and public transportation options include the Metro Transit bus routes that stop near the venue. For families traveling from out of town, several local hotels offer discounted rates for Halloween weekend guests.
Whether you’re seeking heart‑pounding scares after dark or a wholesome autumn outing with the kids, ValleyScare provides a range of experiences that cater to all ages. Mark your calendars and prepare for a spooky season that celebrates community, family, and the thrill of Halloween.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
