We are officially into the swing of October, and Halloween traditions surround us everywhere. There are those of us who love light-hearted activities such as carving pumpkins and trick-or-treating, and then there are those who live for scary movies, haunted houses, and ghost hunting. If you fall into the second category, we have some suggestions for October as well as how to have a spook year-round in Manitowoc. All of these attractions are powered by the scary-cool Dead by Dawn Productions. 

 

Windigo fest pumpkin carving cropped

Windigo Fest

Attending Windigo Fest this weekend is a no-brainer for all Halloween lovers in the area. The three-day festival starts on October 6, with opening "scaremonies" at 5 p.m. There will be a parade with decorated floats, a costume contest for all ages, performers, unusual vendors, a pumpkin carving artist, a physic, live music, and more. Don't miss the celebrity guest appearance, as Douglas Tait visits on Friday and Saturday. See the full entertainment lineup by going to Windigo Fest's website. 

 

Dead by Dawn dining room

Dead by Dawn Dead & Breakfast

Bed and breakfasts are typically quite cozy and relaxing, both of which don't describe Dead by Dawn Dead & Breakfast. This unique bed and breakfast promises to keep you up all night in their haunted rooms with scares from real actors whose job is to give you the creeps. Guests will stay in one of three themed rooms, be greeted and served a special drink concoction during "Unhappy Hour," and enjoy a "goremet" breakfast in the morning.  A restful night package is available for those who need their shuteye. If you are brave enough, call Dead by Dawn to make your reservation now for a night you'll never forget!

 

Mad Hatter overview

The Mad Hatter

No matter the time of year, you can stop in at The Mad Hatter, where every day is Halloween. Here you'll find horror merchandise, body jewelry, costume accessories, a Harry Potter corner, masks, and an incense nook. The store is open Monday-Saturday and is like nothing you've seen before. 

 

Shrunken Head pool table

The Shrunken Head Creepeasy

One of Manitowoc's most unique watering holes is The Shrunken Head Creepeasy, located in the same building as The Mad Hatter and Dead by Dawn Dead & Breakfast. This funky bar is outfitted in a spooky safari theme, with life-size animal decor and tiki bar. Along with bar classics, The Shrunken Head serves themed drinks including Poison Apple, Black Magic, and Bloody Mummia. Follow them on Facebook so you don't miss fun event nights and trivia. A bar this cool requires reservations; call ahead before you plan to go.