Meet Washington's Halloweentown
Have you ever heard of the town of BOO-coda?
Most of the year the town goes by Bucoda, but every October it transforms into Washington’s own Halloweentown.
Complete with a haunted gym known for paranormal activity, hearse processionals, casket races and pumpkin carving contests, the entire community (population 562) works year-round to make the transformation possible.
This pint-sized town, known as Bucoda for the rest of the year, is defined by its history – its role as the site of the first prison in Washington Territory, its position on the first Northern Pacific transcontinental railroad, and its repute as a historic logging town with a “million-dollar payroll.” While many of these industries, and the community bustle associated with them, have left Bucoda, the community spirit of innovation and teamwork are evident when the town comes together for one frightful month in October. Check out these spooky happenings:
- The Scary Nights Haunted House happens each Friday and Saturday in October. The town gym, which has had reports of paranormal activity, transforms into one of the scariest haunted houses in the state. It’s not recommended for children nine and younger. *Join us for our Family-Friendly Haunted House on October 24th & 25th
- The Hearse Processional and Viewing event will take place on October 5th. In previous years, there have been antique funeral carriage-style hearses, classic hearses, and even an appearance from the Mystery Machine!
- Relish a pancake breakfast, and then put on your best costume and participate in the costume contest on October 5th.
- Kids and adults alike will have a blast on the Family Fun Harvest Festival on October 12.
- On October 19, join or watch the Pine Box Derby Casket Race on Main Street. Businesses and individuals alike will be awarded for speed in the categories of first, second, third and ‘dead last.’ Creativity will be accounted for, with awards for Scariest Casket, Funniest Casket, and Best Costumed Team and Cortege.
- Take place in a group re-creation of Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance, on October 25 during the Thrill the World Dance. Perfect those zombie moves with lessons offered on select dates throughout the month.
Boo-coda is located 20 miles southeast of Olympia. For a full calendar of activities, times, fees, and more information, visit boo-coda.com. By tagging social posts #ExperienceOlympia and connecting with us on Facebook and Instagram (@ExperienceOly).
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