The annual Haunted Forest returns to Wolcott Elementary School on Saturday, Oct. 17.

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Halloween fun transforms the woods adjacent the Children’s Forest Woods outside of Wolcott Elementary School. The Haunted Forest becomes an evening of creativity, laughter, and just the right amount of fright.

Wolcott Elementary Haunted Forest. Courtesy image.

This favorite community event will welcome visitors from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and feature imaginative scenes designed and built by Wolcott students, families, and staff.

Hosted by the Wolcott PTO as its signature fall fundraiser, the Haunted Forest offers something for every age.

If you survive your haunted walk through the woods, take advantage of available arts and crafts, games, a family-friendly movie, seasonal snacks, and our popular returning attraction, the outdoor maze!

New this year, the Rescue Dog Food Truck will be dishing out family favorites throughout the event.

This is an outdoor event, so dress accordingly.

Families with younger children are encouraged to attend during the first hour, from 5 to 6 p.m., when the trail is designed to be more playful than spooky. As darkness settles in after 6 p.m., visitors can expect more surprises and jump scares along the route.

Wolcott Elementary Haunted Forest. Courtesy image.

Tickets are $8 per person or $30 per family and may be purchased at the event using cash or digital payment through Zeffy. Advance tickets are also available. Visit WolcottPTO.org for more information and ticket details.

Over the years, Haunted Forest scenes have ranged from whimsical storybook settings and movie-inspired displays to classic Halloween hauntings complete with witches, ghosts, and eerie surprises. Each scene reflects the creativity of the students and families who bring the trail to life, making every year’s experience unique.

“Wolcott is all about traditions, and one of our most popular and anticipated events is the Haunted Forest,” said Principal Scott Dunn. “It’s always exciting to see the creativity that students and families bring to the woods, and it’s a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together for a memorable night of fun.”

Wolcott Elementary Haunted Forest. Courtesy image.

Now a cherished community tradition spanning more than a decade, the Haunted Forest is powered by dozens of volunteers and draws visitors from across West Hartford and beyond. Many families return year after year, creating scenes as younger siblings reach elementary school and keeping the tradition alive for new generations of students.

The event continues to be one of the PTO’s most successful fundraisers, helping support programs and activities that benefit Wolcott students throughout the year.

“The Haunted Forest really captures what makes Wolcott so special—creating those unique experiences, building core memories, and strengthening our community by bringing us all together.” says Bill and Emily Weckman, who are this year’s event organizers. “The event offers a variety of activities and has something for everyone…we hope to see you there!”

Wolcott Elementary Haunted Forest. Courtesy image.

“We would also like to take a moment to say a BIG thank you to all the local sponsors who stepped in to support this event. We couldn’t have done it with out you! Sponsors include; Webster Building and Development, Savin Brands, Russian School for Mathematics, Brothers Associates Landscape Masonry and Turf, Lynx Systems, EAQ Landscape Contracting, Marchion & Faucher, Early Start West Hartford, Rogers Orchards, Big Y and BJs Wholesale Club”, Weckman adds.

Wolcott Elementary School is located at 71 Wolcott Road. The Haunted Forest is centered on the north side of campus, adjacent to the woods between the school and Wolcott Park. For more information, visit WolcottPTO.org or email [email protected].

In the event of inclement weather, the Haunted Forest will be held on Saturday, October 24th, 2026. Updates will be provided on the Wolcott Elementary PTO Facebook Page.

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