Opening night at a haunted attraction is equal parts excitement and terror. If this is your first season as a haunt owner, those feelings can be amplified even more.
Calm your inner demons with this 12-step checklist that’s scary simple to follow. We’ll cover everything you need to get done in the days before opening night, to help your haunt’s first season be frightfully successful.
Final Preparations
1. Walkthrough Inspection
Complete a final walkthrough to ensure all props, decorations, and set pieces are in place. Check all pathways for safety hazards (e.g., loose wires, uneven flooring). Make sure all emergency exits are clearly marked and accessible.
2. Lighting & Special Effects
Test all the lighting equipment in your haunt, including emergency lights. Check fog machines, strobe lights, and other special effects for proper operation. Ensure sound systems are working, including ambient sounds and any triggered effects.
3. Safety & Compliance
Verify that all fire extinguishers are accessible and properly charged. Confirm that all staff are trained in emergency procedures. Double-check that your haunted house complies with local fire codes and occupancy limits. Review the placement and functionality of all surveillance cameras.
Staff & Volunteer Coordination
4. Staff Briefing
Hold a final staff meeting to go over the evening’s schedule, roles, and responsibilities. Review emergency procedures and evacuation routes. Ensure all actors are in costume, makeup, and character. Provide walkie-talkies or other communication devices to key staff members.
5. Actor Placement
Assign actors to their positions and perform a final rehearsal. Ensure each actor knows their cues and timing. Perform a final check on props and costumes for actors.
6. Guest Services
Brief ticket booth staff on procedures for ticket sales and entry management. Ensure ushers are familiar with the layout to guide guests appropriately. Set up a first aid station and ensure staff are aware of its location.
Guest Experience
7. Entrance & Queue
Set up the entrance area with clear signage. Arrange queue lines to manage crowds effectively. Provide entertainment for guests in line (e.g., roaming actors, videos, or music).
8. Ticketing & Entry
Make sure your ticketing system is working properly and that your staff knows how to use it. Complete a few test transactions or scans on any devices your staff plans to use throughout the night. Set up a security check if necessary.
9. Atmosphere & Ambiance
Play background music or sound effects in the entrance and queue areas. Dim lighting in guest areas to enhance the spooky atmosphere. Ensure any pre-show videos or performances are ready to go.
Operations
10. Monitoring & Adjustments
Assign staff to monitor guest flow and adjust timing as needed to prevent bottlenecks. Ensure there is a system for actors to take breaks without disrupting the experience. Set up a system for handling complaints or issues that arise.
11. Emergency Protocols
Review emergency protocols with all staff and ensure clear communication channels. Have a plan for managing any unexpected issues, such as technical malfunctions or disruptive guests.
12. Post-Event Procedures
Prepare a cleanup crew to reset the haunted house for the next night. Hold a debrief with staff to discuss what went well and areas for improvement. Collect and secure any cash or payments from the night.
Final Thoughts
The first night operating your haunted attraction will go a lot more smoothly if you follow this checklist. You’ll be able to create memorable experiences for your guests, and you’ll be able to actually enjoy the night yourself!
If you haven’t set up your haunted attraction’s ticketing yet, there’s still time! Schedule a call with a haunt expert today and we’ll set everything up for you.
