A new Halloween attraction is set to rattle the region on Friday as Fresno Fright Nights opens its gates for the 2025 season.

The haunt, running through Nov. 1, spans six acres at Island Water Park and features multiple haunted zones, eerie passageways, and Hollywood-level special effects. The event is staged by Immersive Attractions Group, LLC and is not owned or operated by the water park.

Fresno Fright Nights Main Attractions

Designed by professional designer and haunted house expert Allen Hopps, the attraction includes Chemi-Kill Meltdown, an abandoned chemical plant overrun with mutated workers; Ghoul Town Trails, an outdoor cemetery haunted by a cult awakened by a cursed bell; and Night Crawlers Pizza, a cryptid-themed parody of family entertainment centers.

One of the event’s main draws is the Blood River Bayou, a 12-minute boat ride that transforms the water park’s lazy river into a swamp of scares. During a media preview on Saturday, guests boarded early versions of the attraction as actors in full costume and makeup prepared to unleash the finished haunt.

“One of the other things we’re excited about is the Blood River Bayou,” said Bob Martin, managing partner with Fresno Fright Nights. “It’s the only haunt of its kind in the nation, and you’ll get to see it but it could take 60 people on there at one time.”

In addition to the haunted attractions, JazzyD Dance Studio treated early attendees to a 22-minute performance titled The Eternal Circus. Performers are scheduled to return on Oct. 5 and Oct. 12, with social media posts indicating there will be four shows each night.

Pick the Night That Works for You

Fresno Fright Nights is divided into three tiers of fright: Regular Nights, which promise shorter lines and more intimate scares; Moderate Nights, when larger crowds amplify the energy and anticipation; and Premium Nights, billed as a “full-throttle assault on the senses” with heavy crowds, high energy and maximum terror.

Organizers say the event is designed to be a one-of-a-kind local haunt, blending traditional haunted house frights with theatrical performances and detailed set design.

During a press conference on Saturday, Fresno City Council President Mike Karbassi said that residents no longer have to travel out of town for a Halloween thrill.

“They’ll come right here to the island and we’re going to get people from all over the Valley and all over this state to come here right in the northwest Fresno,” he said.

Martin said his team has been putting in 16-hour days to prepare for the debut. “We can’t wait for Friday night’s opening,” he said.

Fresno Fright Nights Bring in Horror Film Celebrities

The haunt will also welcome horror film celebrities on Oct. 12. Guests include Felissa Rose from “Sleepaway Camp,” Mark Burnham from “Leatherface,” Bill Thornbury from “Phantasm,” and Miko Hughes from “Pet Sematary.”

Martin said the actors will interact with fans and share stories at the VIP tent.

Tickets start at $39.99 for general admission, with “Frightening Lane” priority entry beginning at $59.99. VIP tickets start at $110.

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