The Jesse James Players’ Hike of Horrors begins this weekend, opening to fanfare by the community and the region.
The Hike of Horrors has been held many times in the past several years. This year, the show has been modified to accommodate changes required due to the pandemic.
“We’ve completely changed the route people will take and moved to a longer, more spaced out hike, and instead of one maze, we’re building two,” said Jesse James Player and co-organizer Marissa Wollmann. “We’ve revamped and updated our previous maze and thanks to the generosity, time and effort of Don and Denise Schmidt who have provided several portable carports, we’re transforming them into a large outdoor maze.
“As the sets are taking shape they’re looking spectacular. We plan to take smaller groups out on the trail, and to space them widely apart. As for our actors, there will be fewer performers, as many of our older performers are staying home for their own safety. Again, no judgements here, we want them to be safe.”
The organizers are requesting that all patrons use common sense and work to protect each other and the volunteers by wearing a mask. They will have some available on hand if needed.
They will also have the Redders food truck available in order to provide refreshments.
“If you haven’t tried them, they really do a great job,” she said. “His food is great and he can serve food both efficiently and safely to anyone who comes to the hike. Our performances will start at 7:30, but he’ll be at the football field, set up and ready to serve by 6 p.m.”
The performances will be held this weekend, October 23 and 24, and next weekend, October 30 and 31, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Price is $15 at the gate, which will be located at the Garretson Athletic Complex (by the football field).
On October 31, the Garretson Commercial Club is encouraging the community to get together at Split Rock Park for a Trunk or Treat. Decorate your car or a campsite before 4:00 p.m., and trunk-or-treating will occur from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Campsites will be taken on a first-come, first-serve basis, with RV sites going first. The event will be free to all. Those who have questions can contact Commercial Club President John Brinkman at First Bank and Trust.
Masks that cover the mouth and nose will be expected at the Trunk or Treat, though the Commercial Club is asking the community to be creative.
“Everybody please wear a mask,” said Commercial Club Vice President Garrick Moritz. “Whatever costume you’re wearing, putting a mask on is not a difficult decision. Most costumes will already have masks, so putting a PPE mask underneath isn’t a hassle. For example, if you were dressing as a cowboy, a bandit mask makes for a great face covering.”
This request extends to trick-or-treating, as well. The CDC has listed trick-or-treating and trunk-or-treats as high-risk activities, especially if mitigation measures such as masks and social distancing are not taken.
Creative ideas such as “candy pipelines” and “candy graveyards” have been suggested by those who want to ensure a six-foot distance or more is maintained.
Porch lights in Garretson often come on by 6:00 p.m. and turn off by 8:00 p.m. on Halloween.
