Celebrating the Halloween season in Newbury Park
Throughout Newbury Park, there are many ways to celebrate the spooky season. From touring neighborhoods for decorations, walking through Reign of Terror at the Janss Mall or going a little further away from home to Night of the Jack in Calabasas and Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, there’s a widespread amount of activities for any and all ages.
On Oct.18, I went to Night of the Jack with my family. It takes place on King Gillette Ranch and is a wonderful, kid-friendly way to start up the season. Upon entering, you are presented with many food trucks and Halloween themed activities before the actual walkthrough. You tour the Ranch while it is decorated with hundreds of pumpkins that are carved to look like anything and everything. There’s a little something for everyone and there are many photo opportunities throughout, creating a cute way to create new memories and immerse any family into a Halloween environment, without the natural scare of the season.
Now, in complete contrast, there is the Reign of Terror. It is Newbury Park’s very own corner of scary, and it is the largest walk-through haunted house in Southern California. When I went, on Oct. 21, regular tickets cost $40, and $65 for fast access. While the prices were oddly steep, I really enjoyed the experience itself. This was my first year going and, as someone who gets scared easily, I absolutely adored the experience. I did not have high expectations but they were very much exceeded. I don’t want to spoil anything in case they reuse scares next year, but let’s just say you should watch out for a chainsaw scare. If you can afford to go, I would highly recommend it.
All in all, there’s a little something for everyone in Newbury Park and beyond, no matter if you stay closer to town or venture to Calabasas. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate the Halloween season, whether it be with your family or friends, there is no lack of opportunities in and around our town.
