Fear’s Favorite Haunts
Understanding Fear
Fear Carolina is committed to • Fair representation of Haunted Attractions across North and South Carolina • Clear and honest guest guidance • Respect for Haunt creators and performers • Celebrating the diversity of Fear Experiences across the Carolina’s
Horror Themes Themes reflect the creative focus of an attraction and may include: • Psychological Horror • Supernatural / Paranormal • Southern Gothic • Folklore / Legends • Slasher / Gore • Post Apocalyptic • Classic Monsters • Experimental Horror Attraction Format Describes the types of attractions featured and may include: • Haunted House • Haunted Trail • Haunted Bus Ride • Haunted Hayride Production Scope • National Production - Haunts that stand out ona national level. Multiple attractions or extensive environmentsacross a large footprint, often designatedas “Destination Attractions”. • Regional production - Above average haunts. A fully developed attraction within a contained layout, offering a complete and cohesive experience. • Local experience - Average haunts Smaller, creative attractions emphasizing detail,atmosphere, or experimental design. Describes the scale and layout of an attraction. It does not in anyway indicate scare quality! Experience Style • Actor Driven ExperienceLive performers are the primary source of interaction and scares. • Atmospheric / Story Driven ExperienceMood, setting, sound,lighting and narrative playa major role in building tension • Actor Enhanced Experience Environmental effects are supported by targeted actor interactions. • Immersive ExperienceGuests are placed directly inside themed environments with continuous engagement • Interactive ExperienceGuests may influence or participate in certain aspects of the experience.  Describes how an attraction primarily delivers it’s scares. Fear Level • Low Fear ExperienceAtmospheric Experiences with minimal jump scares and lighter intensity. • Moderate Fear ExperienceBalanced experiences with steady scares andmoments of relief. • High Fear Experience Frequent scares,intense pacing, and heightened sensory environments.  • Extreme FearHighly intense experience designed for seasoned haunt fans.  Describes general Intensity based on scare frequency, pacing, and sensory elements. This is NOT a measure of quality or effectiveness! A Standout Haunt worth traveling for. Criteria. Solid production quality Continuous Operation Strong Reviews Relentless scares and aggressive actors. Criteria. High Fear level Strong Actor interaction Not Recommended for younger visitors Woods, Trails, or outdoor scares. Criteria. Trail Haunts Hayrides Outdoor immersive experiences An Attraction with multiple forms of scares! A strong level of actor performance and interaction Criteria. High actor count interactive performers Strong improvisation Criteria. A haunt that pushes boundaries. It goes beyond scary. Challenges your Senses Pushes your endurance Leaves the visitor in shock A tried and true Haunt with History! Criteria. A minimum of at least 10 years of Continuous Operation An attraction that transports you to places unknown. Criteria. Environmental Story telling Highly detailed sets Strong lighting and Sound elements Audience Guidance Audience Guidance is intended to help guests decide which experience fits their group. • First Time Friendly • Recommended forHorror Fans • Teen Friendly (+13) • Adult Oriented (+18) • Date Night Friendly • Group/ Team Building *These are recommendations not restrictions! Examples include:
All Classifications are intended to help guests find the haunted attractions that best match their interests and comfort levels. Experiences vary by night, season, and individual guest perception