Explaining the NEW Busch Gardens Membership Season Passes

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of the new Busch Gardens Williamsburg Annual Passes/Memberships.

The good news right off the bat is all passes now include Christmas Town! Also if you  are unhappy with the changes and paid with EZ pay, then you don’t have anything to worry about. Just keep your account paying automatically which makes it “Active” and nothing changes.  This is true for both Season Pass holders and Membership holders. Many of these changes have occurred because the public wasn’t happy with the roll out that happened in February. So the park tried to revamp things to make everyone happy.

These changes therefore are for those who paid in full, people interested in changing to membership or those who haven’t opted for a pass yet.  So if you are on the EZ Pay then it doesn’t matter if you are happy with what you have. If you aren’t happy you can pick a new plan at any time. 

This article will detail the changes, the original ones in February and the current plans that changed on October 1^st. This way you can review what you may have and what you want to do. If you have never had a membership, or do understand what you have fully, then skip to the section marked October.

Now Including Christmas Town

Annual Passes before the new memberships.

In case you missed it, the park changed from the Season pass model that has been going on for a long time to “Memberships” at the beginning of 2018 February/ (October 1 they were changed again see next section for the most up to date information)

Originally there were season passes.  1 park pass, 2 park pass  (BGW and Water Country)and an All Discovery Parks Platinum pass which included Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Tampa and their respective Water parks, all 3 SeaWorlds , SeaWorld water parks Aquatica and Sesame Place, giving 11 parks total.

All passes were pretty self-explanatory in what parks they include. All include parking, with the platinum one including preferred parking at your home park. All passes included discounted and free tickets and a 10% discount (30% at Sesame Place) on merchandise and food. All of this remains the same for those who still hold season passes and have not opted to switch.

February New Membership Rollout

So in February the new memberships were announced. Basic, unlimited and Premier memberships (still a season pass in essence) pretty much the same deal mentioned above.  The one big difference now is pass member days, such as preview days for opening and HowlOScream and after-hours access for select rides are only for memberships.  And all the new memberships now include Christmas Town, which was previously a separate ticketed or fun card event. Memberships (and not season passes) also receive a few perks/gifts through the year. This included free tickets (no longer you would get those on the original season passes, but still receive  discounted ones), Cocoa Cola Swag,  free ornaments for Christmas Town, and one month they gave $10 Busch Gardens bucks which is what it sounds like, a coupon that can be used on anything in the park.

The costs depending when you switched or purchased was $10-12 for Basic (which had a many black out days, pretty much all Saturdays and holiday weeks were blacked out) but did include water country; $15-17 for Unlimited 2 park pass with no black out days, or $20-22 for Premier which included all the parks like the platinum passes.

So if you signed up for this any time before October 1^st, and you are happy with it, you can keep it. If its on EZ pay you don’t have to do anything but keep paying it. If you paid in full, read on and decide what you want to do. You can talk to park customer relations and most likely keep what you have.

This change occurred because many guests had 2 main complaints with this original system (besides the price hike for those who have had their passes a long time). They didn’t like so many black out days and having Water country if they didn’t want it.

 October Newer New membership (what you can get now)

Announced on Oct 1 there are now 4 levels.

This includes Basic, Unlimited, Premier and Platinum

Same deal applies as before, if you are on EZ pay and pay monthly you can keep your stuff as it is whether it’s a new membership or season pass. However if you paid in full, then you have to figure out what you want to do. The biggest change is Premier did include all the parks, and now you will have to upgrade to Platinum to receive that and it is a large increase.

Otherwise the costs aren’t really different; customers wanted the option to not include Water Country, if you want it, its $2 more, so the prices and details are as follows.

Basic $10-12 (or annually $120 or $144)

Basic Membership being $10 for the one park or $12 for both is an ok deal, and hasn’t really changed much. It is like an upgraded version of a fun card since fun cards do not include discounts or parking discounts. The new Basic includes more days, so there are less black out days then there were originally. But there still are black out days mostly just holidays and a few Saturdays during Howl O Scream and Christmas Town. This makes a lot of sense for people who have been to the park when it is extremely crowded. You still get a discount and parking is 50% off.  This new version is better than the original one rolled out in February.  Fun cards are per season and usually cost the same as a ticket ($90) so this is a better deal for folks who visit throughout the year a few times, but not regular park visitors who may come weekly or bi-weekly.

 Unlimited $15-17 (annually $180 or $204)

 Unlimited is an upgraded basic membership, and if you opt for the extra 2 dollars a month is similar to the original 2 park pass.  Unlimited, means no black out days.  It comes with a discount of 10% off, just as before, and free regular parking. You get 2 free bring a friend tickets.

Premier $20-$22 (annually $240-$288)

Premier passes are the exact same thing as unlimited passes with a larger discount of 15% off, having Preferred parking over general and 1 extra free friend ticket.  (3 total). The changes to this from February is the largest and seem to be the most confusing/upsetting to those who paid in full. (NOT on EZ pay, if you pay EZ pay monthly you are fine all stays the same in price and perks.) This previously included 11 parks, and now it is just for BGW, the extra $2 a month gets you Water Country.  People who select this option would be those who are planning on enjoying the Preferred parking as they will pay an extra $60 a year to have it

Platinum $29 or Annually $347.88

This is a new level. Previously you had the Premier pass which got all 11 parks, or the good old Platinum Season passes (Which is what we have). You get everything mentioned in all the other passes, but all the parks, ride again access on 4 coasters (Alpengeist, Apollo’s Chariot, Griffon, Lockness Monster)and a Photokey Membership.  

Water Country Only $70 a year for Basic, or $90 for Unlimited, follows same rules and benefits mentioned above.

Because all the memberships include Christmas Town, (which previously was $30-$50 dollars a year for the funcard) most guests can understand the applicable increase.

People being a bit upset or confused is understandable as these changes happened suddenly twice this year. And though some of it seems a good deal, especially for new guests, some of it punishes the most loyal.  I will use ourselves as an example, to keep the same level of pass if I switched to a membership so I could have a bigger discount and access to member stuff it would cost the 3 of us an extra $600 a year ($200 per pass) which is a hefty price tag and makes no sense.  A more acceptable price increase for us would have been a total of $150 for the year or $50 per pass to include Christmas town.  We have been paying for our passes for 8 years which is $3600, not including all the money we spend on merchandise and food. This is a lot of loyalty. So I don’t expect to be penalized for that. We have opted to keep our passes as they are. Because I write as a blogger I get passes to get us into the member’s only events, and though I love those events as they are not very crowded, I can’t see spending the increase. I actually couldn’t afford it even if I wanted to.

Premier members should voice their concerns if they paid in full as this change took place in the same year. As to keep all the parks they just paid for (people who paid in full only, EZ Pay is the same) it will cost them about an additional $100 a year.

Looking over all the changes, it seems that most of these changes do benefit probably the least interested of guests so I can understand people being upset who paid in full on the higher level. But the increased discount is nice Your average $40 meal is now $34, but in reality that is just $2 less than it was before. People like us though eat at the park often (so far 19 times this year). So take that information as you will. The new perks with free items are fun! And it seems they genuinely want to make it more family like and rewarding. 

If should also be noted in the 2019 season there will be a new swing ride in Ireland and a new water coaster at Water Country.  Generally speaking there has been a new ride or upgraded attraction nearly every year since 2010 that I can verify.  This includes The Mach Tower, Verbolten, Tempesto, InvadR, Colossal Curl, Battle for Eire and a major upgrade of the Globe theater in England.

So like all things in life, there are some pros and some cons, but it will vary from family to family, person to person. 

You can take care of any concerns at the park, which I would recommend doing before your year is up if you paid in full. Especially for the Premier membership if want to keep going to all the parks. 

The park itself does have terrific customer service, so at the end of the day, they will do what they can to keep you happy and as a customer. It is the main reason all of this happened (and happened again) to begin with. Just keep that in mind when talking to someone. If they can fix it for you, they will.

All and all, a membership /annual pass to Busch Gardens has been a great joy for our family and we have never regretted it. Its a lovely place to visit and its nice to just go without having to buy tickets every time we go, which would mean going a lot less. Sometimes we go there just to eat and visit the animals. With a membership/pass you can do things like that if you live in the area.


Christmas Town 2018 Review

Christmas Town 10th Anniversary at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg (BGW) has the distinction of being America's Most Beautiful Theme Park in the world for some 28 consecutive years and has deserved that title each and every year.  This year for the 10th time, Busch Gardens will transform (from the spooky Howl O Scream) to a living Christmas card, called Christmas Town. BGW will be boasting the largest light display in North American with more than 10 million lights this year. Christmas Town comes to town with such enthusiasm and magic, it’s a tradition for many who love Busch Gardens Williamsburg, whether they are local or travel.

It should be noted not all rides are operating due to the weather mostly. Ticket prices are also reflective of this. However The Mach Tower, Verbolten, InvadR and about 20 more -most flat and kid rides are open. as well as the Train and Skyride.  Most people come to Christmas Town for the lights, food, entertainment and overall cheer as opposed to the rides this time of year. So having any operating is a bonus. Ticket prices are about half the cost (from $90 during the season) to as low as $30, but average around $40 depending on the day visiting and when you purchase. (earlier the better)

Go Big or Go Home

The motto for decorating is just that, go big or go home so the park is adorned not just with lights, but 20,000 ornaments and 1500 trees.  There are also wreaths, and other decorations sparkling and shining in the park. Which is decorated by 200 people over 10,000 hours.  But it’s not just what you see with your eyes at Christmas Town that makes it a "Christmas town", it’s this beautifully orchestrated symphony of sounds, smells and good feeling. When it’s all combined you can’t be there and not feel like you just walked into Christmas.

New Magic at Christmas Town This Year.

The Christmas Town Express, which is taking advantage of the existing train, will be fuller of lights and festive fun this year with 2 million of those 10 million lights. Guest will board and be able to carol along the 15 minute ride and enjoy the lights and themed holiday lighted displays specifically decorated for this attraction.

The Wilkommenhaus building in Germany was updated this summer with projection mapping and the lighted delights will continue for Christmas Town.  A lighted show featuring Gingerbread men and a Gingerbread House will come to life every 15 minutes. This building is home to the New Cookies and Cocoa shop where you can select from different flavor freshly made by the pound cookies. Some flavors include; Double Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Lemon, Red Velvet, and Snickerdoodle. You will also be able to decorate a Gingerbread man.

As far as cocoa you will find flavors including Peanut Butter, Mint and the park's signature. There are new mugs this year for the refillable Cocoa. These will fit more easily in your car cup holder (or stroller) and are easier to carry as they don’t have the handles. (which are good when the cups were empty to attach to a back pack). There are also Over-sized Smores shown below, which is actually a light version as i asked them to go easy on the toppings and whipped cream.

You may bring your older cups for refills as well. Its $2.19 refills on Hot cocoa and cider.  ($2.39 for the Ghirardelli) If you don’t have one, then you may want to buy one for $7.  If you purchase your mug at the Ghiradelli location in France it is $8.


SANTA!!!! I Know Him.

Santa’s Workshop moved to Dark Castle (now known as New Castle) in Oktoberfest last year to make for a more spacious environment. But the same old Santa (the really real one ofcourse) is back! The queue begins outside the same as if you are riding Dark Castle. However for those with a mobility pass you use the same quick queue area. If the park isn’t crowded you shouldn’t have to worry about the outdoor queue. The indoor queue is beautiful and makes the wait more fun and exciting.

We did feel it was a long wait, but it was an enjoyable wait. Because you were looking and walking through a lot of magic, so the “wait” was truly part of the experience.  You travel through several rooms full of Christmas cheer, gifts being packaged and more Christmas trees.

Much like they say, it’s not the destination, but the journey. You can also take your own pictures or purchase pictures either with your Photokey membership, or as an individual picture (same as ride photos) which have their borders.

New Sesame St. Show Elmo's Christmas Wish

Over in the Forest of Fun Elmo will take the stage with Rosita, Grover, Zoe and cookie monster in a holiday themed show called Elmo’s Christmas Wish. The 20 minute show is full of  these dancing favorite characters and songs. Guests can also meet and take pictures with Elmo and Cookie Monster at special labeled locations in the Forest of Fun.

The Lights!

One of the main reasons to come is to see the lights of course. Each year they add some more and this year it's up to 10 million. You will notice pictures throughout this review. 

Dining

Dining at Busch Gardens is part of the fun for many park goers because the food here isn’t your typical theme park food. For the holiday season there are special treats available for a short while. Besides what has already been mentioned there will also be different desserts like Black forest cheesecake, cherry cobbler, pumpkin pie crepes, Freak Shakes and more. There are also heated outdoor areas near the outdoor restaurants in England, and New France.

In Fest Haus the roasted Sirloin Sandwich on a sourdough roll with onion strings is back plus you can buy a turkey dinner with all the trimmings.  New this year is the Christmas Town Club which is a turkey, ham and bacon sandwich on cranberry apple and raisin bread $10.99 (also available at Trappers) and at Trappers turkey and pork sliders.

Santa’s Fireside feast

If you prefer to dine with Santa and Mrs. Claus you can also do so!  Santa’s Fireside feast includes a buffet meal, cookies for dessert and the big guy will read you a story. There is also a photo opportunity. Santa’s Fireside Feast (Castle O Sullivan in Ireland) is a holiday buffet and interactive show with Santa. You can meet Santa, tell him what you would like for Christmas and get a picture. This is set up as an interactive show, including Elves. Ms. Claus will bring cookies out for dessert. It was a real delight and a must for kids. You can book this for lunch or dinner; bring your appetite the buffet includes a carving station of turkey or ham, Swedish meatballs, homemade mac-n-cheese, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and Trapper’s Smokehouse Chili. Plus there is plenty of food for kids plus a salad bar and more.

Other dining options

The Tastes of Christmas Town a buffet where you will also get reserved seating for Deck the Halls. (which if you go there on a busy day at the wrong time you certainly need). Both buffets have holiday themed food including roast turkey and ham, Chicken Alfredo and much more.

In New France in front of Trappers Smoke House is the Show Grill, where they are grilling up large hot dogs and sausage sandwiches with toppings which include cheese, sauerkraut, chili, onions and peppers.They also have an option of a hot dog or sausage served with a cup of potato soup or chili.  Trappers is also serving Sliders BBQ Turkey and Pork with coleslaw and fries, and they are pretty delicious, filling and $12.49.

For Dessert lovers

A new Beignet Sundae is being added to Josephine’s Creamery De Chocolate. A hot New Orleans’s styled doughnut with hand dipped ice cream and your favorite toppings. Also for Christmas Town there is a new Peppermint Freak Shake. Which is a Peppermint Chocolate milkshake, topped with crushed peppermint candy, chocolate drizzle and oversized Mint Chocolate chip cookie. It's $14 and meant to be shared.

Wine tastings are still happening in France and Germany and there is Mulled Wine added this year. Which is a warm spiced wine with apple cider and orange in 3 locations; England Cobblestone Bar, The France Village store, and Vin Brule in Italy

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Rudolph Movie Experience

2016 brought in Rudolph experience with Clarisse, Bumble, the lovable Yeti and most of the other Rudolph friends. Holiday Hills is an indoor opportunity to meet Rudolph and friends. The queue is mostly indoors, but on very busy days you will still have a line outside. As you walk through the queue you can enjoy scenes from the Rudolph movie and eventually get to meet Rudolph, Clarice, Bumble and Yukon.  Even the floor is sparkly.

 Out across from this is a shortened 12 minute version of the Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer classic TV show.  Running continuously throughout the day. It will also include some special effects, delicious scents and of course lights.

Holiday Shopping

Shopping at Christmas Town can be part of the fun, and there is plenty of it around. The normal stores will be open selling Busch Gardens merchandise as well as holiday decorations and gifts. In Oktoberfest there is an outdoor market of items (Mistletoe Marketplace) from local artisans, winery and ornaments. With all of the holly jolly around it makes a good time to pick up some special items, or get pictures done for your holiday gift giving, regardless of what you celebrate. Cashless wristbands are offered and can be purchased once you enter the park to make your day a bit easier. You can prepay a set amount or link to a credit card depending on your preference and needs. If you pay up front with cash and don’t use it all, it is refunded to you at the end of your night. You can use the wristbands for all purchases including dining.

Entertainment

There is plenty of entertainment decking the halls of Christmas Town. There are 6 shows you can enjoy throughout the park besides character meet and greets and carolers over in England.  Scrooge No More in England, an adaptation of the Charles Dickens Classic A Christmas Carol, takes full advantage of the technological enhancement done on the Globe in 2014.

 At Fest Haus there is a musical holiday review show about different traditions called Deck the Halls. In Italy at the San Marco Theater is an acappella musical show called “Gift of Harmony” full of Christmas music both new and old. For Christian traditionalists you can enjoy Gloria, a classic retelling of the Christian “first Christmas” at the Abby Stone theater in Ireland.  

But the true crowning gem is T’was the Night, an ice skating show over in France in the Royal Palace Theater based on the story T’was the Night before Christmas. 

For additional entertainment you will also find Carolers in England and outside of the Festhaus is a 50 foot tree that will light up nightly to a musical score, properly named O’Tannenbaum.  Video here

Final Details

You can visit Christmas Town  at BGW while it’s busting with holiday cheer from November 16 (member night only) through January 5. They aren’t open every day so be sure to check the calendar, but it does mean there are 35 chances to visit. The park is open from 12 or 2pm depending on the day and is open until 10pm Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in November and first week of December. Then its open daily except for Christmas Day through January 1st. And also open the following  weekend Friday and Saturday January 4, 5 from 2-9 as a bonus this year.

The gates typically open an hour before operating times. (Rides and experiences open when stated) the Skyride sometimes is not available until 4pm. You have the option to purchase a ticket at the park or online. If you think you will attend more than once you should consider the Fun Card or a membership. 

More on memberships in this post here.

Single tickets are $30 online and $54 at the gate. Funcards are $54 .Parking for pass members is complimentary and $20-25 for non-season pass holders.

2017 Review

Steering into the skid and eating ice cream

September 2018

This post might be a tad long, but it’s important to some of you who matter to me and who I matter to. I am feeling reflective as I have reached the one year anniversary of getting out of the hospital. So want to share some of what I learned etc. I have to say, talking about personal stuff like this is odd for me, last year once I opened that can of worms, I had to see it through. Though I never fully shared everything, I did share quite a bit. And I am not the only person out there that has health issues related to stress.

ET Phone home? I was overtired and yes, I went there.

For those who don’t know, last summer I was hospitalized with Systolic Congestive heart failure and an array of other issues and partial system failures. My body was shutting down. This situation was a long time coming and began more than 10 years ago.  I suppose a brief backstory is in order, I have always been borderline anemic and did have GI issues when I was 17 But otherwise was healthy.  A few years after having Noah I was having issues, (joint pain, elevated temp, inflammation etc.) which I attributed to a lack of sleep, because I did not sleep for more than an hour or so at a time, and never more than a few hours for several years, due to my old job where I was the boss and on call 24 hours, then having a baby. Anyway, didn’t have insurance, did go to 2 doctors, did get some lab work done, but due to the high costs of labs, they could only get so far with a diagnosis then, based on the results according to the doctors , it had to be an autoimmune disorder like lupus or  cancer. I digress; I wasn’t that sick then, so could not warrant the cost for more tests. So just did my best to be healthy, think positive, that did work overall. Except for when things got very stressful and I couldn’t do the things I needed. Having a baby was one thing, but then having a kid with autism was something else, plus we had financial issues from that, and other things that were beyond our control.  These types of things take a toll, as many people out there know from their own lives.  And when you have challenges and you are sick, or not as well as you need to be, everything is more challenging.

So whatever was “wrong with me” waxed and waned for years. However early in 2016 is most likely  when the heart failure actually began, (though it could have been even earlier). I was just too determined to get to Virginia to allow it to get worse. I felt the time slipping through that hourglass though, which was why I was so determined and sounded so desperate at times about moving.

   





                                           New Path in VA

Leaving behind NJ                                                       

Regardless I made it over a year with the beginning of heart failure, it also improved a bit after moving, probably just because of the love and excitement of dreams coming true. (between moving and getting a job at Busch Gardens, one of my favorite places in the world). At least that is how it seemed, as things weren't as dire as they became in June of 2017. I had some struggles with the hot weather at work, but it was only for a short time it was too warm. And since I was stage managing vampires who LOVED their jobs and LOVED to scare the crap out me, they were practically "defibrillating" me in away.

But moving isn’t without stress no matter how happy you are about it, and neither is life. A few things were going on, that set health issues back on its scary track back in May of last year. Starting over isn't easy, it was stressful of course, even though we were happy about it. Kind of like planning a wedding.  But that, plus suffering a trauma that May, just caused my heart to weaken more, beat too fast and so began a snowball of garbage that started with palpitations,weakness and lead to bloating, edema, insominia, not being able to eat, and system failures.  But I braved my fear of hospitals and being broke and found a place that had a good feeling. And it was. The people there did a good job, as I am alive to type this. 

Echo results from Aug 2016-Jan 2017                                    Discharge Day, "My Name is Earl" Style

It’s funny how you can still learn things you already know. I have always had a “seize the day attitude”, but for many years my seizing of the day was literally spent on Noah and helping him, and any time I had left went to helping a few others.  It wasn’t that I didn’t like fun anymore, (well except roller coasters) in fact there were times it really bugged me when I realized how little fun we were actually having. But being sick made that matter more again, fun, relaxation, basic non-stress and no worrying about money because my life literally depended on it. It meant giving up some of the work I was doing. I still write for Busch Gardens, and I still write occasional "Things to do" type articles for CBS, but I put everything else on hold. Because in the end, none of that, no matter how important I thought it was, isn't as important as everything else.

Today one year later I am much healthier than the day I left the hospital because of those things. This was my Doctor’s advice, since stress was the primary cause. And I may never know any more than that and all of the details from my hospital stay. There are clues there; there are even confirmations of previous autoimmune disease, the anemia etc. But technically the only diagnosis I have is the Systolic congestive heart failure, due to cardiomyopathy. I also learned a lot of medical stuff, and why they call it a practice, because as much as “they” know there is a lot that they don’t.

I go back in October to check on where I am at now. But the bottom line is, stress is no joke. The stuff in your life that keeps you from sleeping, eating well, that keeps fun out, and worry and pain in, that over works you, has to go. At least most of it. You really have to decide what is worth risking your life for. People tell you all the time, life is short and it’s true. We all know it, but I really knew it over the past year. Because I knew if I didn’t get better, I wasn’t going to have much more than another year or so. If I do what I need, live well, don’t overdo it, don’t work too hard, get plenty of rest and don’t fight so many battles I can have several years ahead of me. Some of the damage is already done, though I do like the idea of saying…well…maybe I can beat that too.

So if I had any advice to give besides all that,  it would be that sodium is the devil and it really isn’t the dog in the fight, but the fight in the dog.  But  don't concern yourself with fighting everything, all the time. Life isn't about fighting, save it for when it matters. Rather, learn to adjust your sails, and steer into the skid.

And eat the ice cream, its low in sodium.

HowlOScream XX 2018 Busch Gardens Williamsburg Full Review

For the past 20 years Busch Gardens has taken its peaceful and beautiful park and turned it into something a bit more sinister and scary for most of September and October. It is just as beautiful, if not even more so with the elaborate lighting and decorations throughout the park. 

HowlOScream, at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg Virginia is a bigger deal this year as it’s the 20th anniversary of the beloved spooky event.  You can visit September 16th through October 28th on select nights (mostly Friday, Saturday and Sunday, but there are a few Thursdays). Park opens at noon on Fridays and 10 on Saturday and Sunday. Closing times vary.

The Following is a full overview of everything at this years HowlOScream (HOS), Houses/mazes; Terrortories, new fun, Bars, shows, treats.

Jack is Back!

For those who have missed the original trickster of Busch Gardens he is back to let out all the spookies at the Witching Hour (about 5:45 at Fest haus) and has his own Escape Room, and area in the new house Vault.

This year they are planning to make the thrills and scares bigger than ever with a "New Era of Terror".  There is a total of 7 Haunted Houses (3 new) 6 Terror-tories (2 New) which means more scare zones, 2 party zones, and 6 bars (5 New), it is shaping up to be bigger than it has in several years. There will also be a new Escape Room featuring Jack, the pumpkin trickster, giving guests 2 escape room choices. (Haunted Hotel is back).

New Houses include Dystopia (indoor at Pompeii, replacing Deadline); Demented Dimensions, and The Vault XX, which will include many past and beloved haunts such as Scarlet and Jack.

New Terror-tories include Fools Court (France) and Garden of Souls (Italy). This scare area in Italy has returned, which most recently was Cut Throat Cove.

The Haunting Hour begins in Oktoberfest  at 5:45 when all of the creatures and haunts are released. And this includes, new this year coaster creepers. Which is exactly as it sounds, creepy ghouls may just wind up sitting next to you on rides.

Goodbye haunts 

We also say goodbye to The Catacombs, Unearthered, Deadline and  the Terror-tory Demon Street, which also means the Demon DJ.  For several years France looked like it was on fire at night, and now its a whole new theme.

NEW Control Lab (Ireland)

One of the coolest new additions is the Control Lab in Ireland. It’s situated in the lobby of Castle O’Sullivan. Guests can scare other guests via a TV system by the press of a button. Dr. Freakenstien hosts over here and is pretty intense fella. There are several TV screens with live feeds to a spot in each of the houses (as well as Fiesta bridge map!). Guests can push the button and it sends a mechanical jump scare off.

For example, in Demented Dimensions a huge furry spider comes to life. There is a small upcharge, which I figure makes sense otherwise people could just sit there all day. 5 scares for $3 or 10 for $5. This could be a good way to get skiddish kids, who may enjoy HowlOScream to help them take control of the fears.

Noah enjoyed this, we bought 2 rounds of scares. (5 scares for $3) all scares go on one specific haunt, as its computerized so it activates a specific button-attraction. Noah enjoyed scaring people in the Vault shown here by activating a skeleton that was hidden behind a tombstone. It was very loud.

You can scare people in The Vault, Demented Dimensions, The Map on the Fiesta Bridge, Dystopia, Frost Bite.

For  the Kids to enjoy
 Counts Spooktacular.

There still is fun for kids. The Counts Spooktacular runs from October 6-28th and families can come have just spooky fun during the day 11-5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Children are allowed to dress up, trick or treat and enjoy a hay maze as well as other activities and shows including the Countdown to Halloween event hosted by the Count of course.

 Busch Gardens has Sesame street characters in the Forest of Fun, situated just outside of England. There are several rides throughout the park as well as another play area in Germany (The land of the Dragons) which is for kids, typically ages 9 and under. The kid’s areas are closed at 5pm to get ready for the event and at 5:45 the park is then handed over to the ghouls where things will be much more frightening. So if your little ones won’t enjoy being scared and terrorized its best to head out, as the ghouls’ job is to scare the pants off of guest. Which is what guests typically go to an event like this for, and some kids do enjoy a good scare. If you don’t know which your kid is, you will find out.

Noah’s first HowlOscream was in 2010 when he was 8. He was terrified of HowlOScream the first several years we went, but we kept trying so he didn’t develop a phobia. He didn’t. He did eventually learn to conquer all the Houses, for the first few years he just did one a year. But the last 2 years he has been able to do all of them and it’s now a sense of pride. This year he willingly went through all the new houses and even was a bit of a heckler.

Face Painting

Face painters are in a few areas in the park, and always helped Noah with his "scareaphobia" (the fear of being scared).  If you can't beat them, join them.

Haunted Houses

Should be noted there are indoor and outdoor mazes, the outdoor mazes can close in case of bad weather. Typically a steady rain, but not necessary a light rain, always for lightening, which can be temporary. This year there are 4 indoor, 2 outdoor and 1 indoor/outdoor.

4 Returning houses for 2018

Frost Bite (Dark Castle in Oktoberfest) indoor. Inside what was formerly Dark Castle is a chilly walk through a spooky enchanted castle, was run by some kind of monster, but is still inhabited by ghouls. It is cool in here, which is welcome on warmer days which can still happen anytime in October, and most of September. The chill adds to the chills it creeps on your spine. The inside is very cool, but when we went through it wasn't that staffed. So maybe a good option for someone who doesn't want to be too terrified.

                                               

Circo Sinstro (Fiesta Italy) Indoor/Outdoor.  This house was new in 2016 and is hosted by the Ring Master (you may remember him from Scream tweets)  features creepy circus elements, which also match the Terror-tory you will walk through (Side Show) before you get to the tents. The maze/house is partially outdoor and the tents are the "indoor" part. Which are helpful in rain.

Lumberhacked (black forest woods behind Fest Haus/black forest picnic area) outdoor. takes guests to new territory, literally. Situated in the woods behind Busch Gardens’ Oktoberfest village,  LumberHack beckons unsuspecting hikers into a forgotten logging camp inhabited by undead lumberjacks. This has been our favorite outdoor haunted houses over the years. The fact they set it up in the woods adds ambiance of being in the “Black Forest”. The whole thing is instantly believable as far as these things can be. The scares are great, and the effects of chainsaws and saws add some more scare. This is the only haunted house out of all I have been into (and that would make 12 over the years) where I literally ran away from the scare squad. If you can only do one haunted house, be sure to do this one.

Cornered (Oktoberfest near Fest Haus) outdoor. Cornered takes guests to a 1977 farming community where townspeople are disappearing at an alarming rate.  A local corn farmer is the main suspect but everyone who ventures into the maze of maize is never seen again. Every time someone goes missing a cornhusk doll mysteriously appears. We found Cornered pretty cool with the visual illusions, (maze of mirrors has been removed), Rubber rats adorn some of the walls and air cans blow at your feet in spots so you think they are trying to get you. Rats. The cast of Cornered are memorable and awesome! One of them ghouls sounds like a demented Mickey Mouse and as I walked past he suddenly turned into some kind of demon yelling "Don't leave me!". Very cool

NEW for 2018

Demented Dimensions (NEW) Oktoberfest- Indoor back of Dark Castle, the queue is in Germany where Cornered formerly was, behind the shops and before the entrance of Oktoberfest. The story goes; you are entering Sterling Manor, a haunted House on top of a Vortex which opens portals to other dimensions, so the place is full of creatures and aliens. The rooms are that of a mansion and even a city street. This house was donated from Busch Gardens Tampa, it has been slightly changed to make fresh. Since there are these portals and creepy dimensions you will see a variety of demented things, some that seem normal at first.

The Vault (NEW) Oktoberfest- Indoor behind Fest Haus, where Bitten was formerly. The Vault is a throwback to past favorites including Scarlet, Jack, Little Dead Riding Hood from dead time stories, the Wolfman from Hunted, and Pirate from, Mummy from Pompeii. Each room is themed from a previous haunts (both houses and terrortories) and even characters from shows.

So it will take fans on a terrifying trip down memory lane. Upon entering you will notice morgue like drawers with the logos of former haunts. 

Dystopia (NEW) at Pompeii, replacing Deadline.  It’s a similar theme in that it’s a Post-Apocalyptic world. The inside is full of spooky people, not ghouls, but these authoritative members of this 'new society" are indeed scary. There are many long corridors that come into rooms full of creepy and sometimes gross scenes. The ending jump scare is interesting, even if it didn't actually scare us. (We visited Dystopia on member night, it was not crowded, may not have been fully staffed either).

Terror-Tories

6 Terror-tories or scare zones are designated places in the park that are themed and staffed with ghouls and creatures to jump out and sneak up on you. The growl, hiss, scream but they don’t bite..you.  

Favorites are returning such as Ripper Row in England, Side Show in Fiesta Italia, Vampire Point in Germany, Axe Alley. Ripper Row follows the story of Jack the ripper. Side Show connects with Circo Sinstro and is side show people and creatures. Vampire Point is pretty self explanatory, they also have a mini show called feeding time at the top of every hour at the back of Rhinefeld near the ski lodge refreshment shop. Axe Alley is dedicated to vikings, on the loose from InvadR.

Axe Alley

All the terror tories have actors in dedicated areas. Generally they are trained to not bother people who are carrying food, or who are sobbing. But everyone else is fair game.

                                                                       Fools Court
The 2 new areas include Fools Court in France,(replacing Demon Street) and Garden of Souls in Italy which has been empty the past 2 years. Garden of Souls is pretty dark, and not well lit so they can really creep up on you. There is also a cool display of haunts of the past near the grape squeshing station.

Terror-tories are fun to look at and enjoy the decorations and costumed characters as much as being scared. The more in the moment and scared you are, the more you will be scared. They can smell fear.. If you prefer to not be scared then just walk through as such, smiling. They seem to leave you alone then. Well except at Vampire Point, but that might be because they know me.

Bars. Drinks for Fun or for Courage!

This year there are six bars, 5 of them are new. You will find them spread throughout the park. All bars serve bottled beers (some on draft) as well as Wine and Soda. The cocktails will vary for each location, mostly based on theme. Alcoholic drinks are from $7-$12. Below are the names, locations of each bar the specialty drinks they serve.

Cobblestone Ales in England next to the candy shop on the way into the rest of the park serves frozen Hurricanes and Bushwackers

Inoculation Station in Ireland by Castle O Sullivan. You are served by nurses from Fiends. Syringe shots of Jell-O and Vodka. Also serving frozen Green Fiend, and Scarlett's Potion. And for snaking Bacon on a Stick

Chaos Cocktails (France, formerly Demon Drinks, same spot) here you can enjoy the new Jester Juice, and the old Green Demon, as well as the gelatin syringe.

Jacks Night Cap (outside Vampire Point Germany on the way into Oktoberfest) serving Vampire
Martinis.

Last Call (Oktoberfest, formerly Open Casket) Vampire Martini

Restless Spirits- Italy towards the San Marco Bridge, outside of San Marco theater. Skeletons serve up Frozen Hurricanes, Frozen Syringes and Ghostly Potions.

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Frost Drinks is not labeled as a bar, but you can get frozen drinks there. Frost Drinks is near Verbolten.  It only serves frozen drinks.

Other types of Tricks at HOS

Escape Rooms

The Escape Rooms located in Germany, were added in 2016 and guests state they are a lot of fun. According to Park VP Peter Dunklee the park intends for there to be at least a 60% success rate.  The Haunted Hotel is back this year and New is Jacks Nightmare room, haunted by the original Busch Gardens Trickster. Escape rooms are an up charge and can require reservations on busy nights (Saturdays especially) Each adventure is 30 minutes and allows 6 guests at a time to escape the room.

Party Zones

Party zones are dance areas of the park that is hosted by a ghoulish DJ. Extra fun lighting and fog maybe part of the experience.

France where Demon DJ was is a new themed party zone part of Fools Court.

Italy at the San Marco Theater also has a DJ with a dance pit and music.

Projection Mapping in Germany

Additional delights besides the lavish decorations throughout the park is the new Projection Mapping in Germany on the Wilkomena House every 15 minutes the show begins from dusk to park close.. The house projects creepy elements that seem to just come alive. I need to get better pictures as the few i got, just don't do it justice. (my camera had died so had to take the above with my phone)

Ireland is full of creepy Dr. Freakenstien experiments.  The New ride Battle for Erie is also still running (typically the attraction in this castle is used as a haunt).

There are also a variety of upgrades to enhance your visit. Guided tours allow priority access (no lines) to all 7 houses, and 3 shows (special reserved seating) plus dinner at Fest Haus and includes VIP parking. Price is $75-$125 depending on the day per person.

Shows 
All shows are about 25 minutes and all feature music and dancing in a Halloween theme.

Monster Stomp (England - Globe) PG 13

This popular show was missing from the park for a few years but came back at the request of numerous guests, plus the update in technology the Globe Theater. The projection equipment, increase in lighting and new speakers brings on a more dramatic and darker version of Monster Stomp. There are elements from the original that debuted back in 2002 including the “dance of the skeletons” and a few of the favorite songs which launched Monster Stomp’s popularity. Monster Stomp is loud, but it leaves you wanting more.  The opening scene is a bit scary for kids(Jack the ripper claims a victim behind a scrim so you see him holding a head in silhouette) but you can just have yourself or your kids close their eyes for those few seconds. Monster Stomp is hands down our favorite show, we try to see it as much as possible. It’s just as good (but shorter) than most “Broadway” shows.

Fiends (Ireland – Abby Stone) for Mature Audiences.

Dr. Freakenstien wants to create the ultimate monster. He is assisted by Igor and 7 Nurses. Contains fake but realistic lightening. The music is all familiar songs including Thriller, Eye of the Tiger, Hungry like the Wolf and Be my Frankenstein of course. The show isn’t violent (without spoiling anything even when violence is threatened, it’s silly). All of the dancing, humor and costuming is adult themed and not appropriate for kids. (because of the costuming, not so much the content) With the exception of this bizarre dance sequence to When you’re Strange by the Doors featuring Igor and Swampy the thing from the “Fat lagoon”, a sexy Vampire and a Wolfman. Kids would enjoy this part, but overall they may feel uncomfortable and the show is labeled as Mature. (but it isn't restricted). The choreography over all isn’t offensive, just combined with the costuming because the nurses are dressed in negligee/ strip club type (they do not strip though!) However Freakenstien's creation, more like Rocky from Rocky Horror does strip down to his speedo.

Night Beats (Oktoberfest- Fest Haus) Family Friendly

is a musical revue with Halloween themed costumes, special effects and music. The show occurs in Fest Haus. It is updated each year and performed by the undead members of the Casket Club. Performers sing, dance and play instruments.  This show has been revamped, and guests who have seen it over the years will notice the departure of favorite characters Ulrich and Beatrix, though a nod to them has been included in Tombstones with their names on the stage. 


After all the tricks, don't forget the Treats!

Don’t forget your fall treats! Busch Gardens food is one of the reasons people who don’t ride roller coasters, or like my dad who don’t ride anything but the train and just go here to eat and smoke. The food is good and the return of fall themed desserts, cookie cakes, pumpkin cheese cake, pumpkin crepes and  the colorful Monster cake.

The Freak Shakes are still available at Creamary De Chocolat, you can get Chocolate Brownie, Vanilla Cookie Dough and Pumpkin Pie.

Fall comes creeping in rather slowly in most of Virginia, the trees changing as well as the temperatures being lowered. Most of October is nice and warm with highs during the day from 70-even 90 on occasion, but typically lower 80’s, and the lows generally are in the 60’s with some in the 50’s. This provides ideal weather for visiting.

By Day

by Night

You can purchase single day tickets ($90-$120 for 1-3 days) or a membership. There are several levels, and they just changed the program (as of October First) article coming and will link here. You can also learn more on Busch Garden’s Website. It should also be noted if you visit October 11, 18 or 25^th (Thursdays) you can get in for $45 as the park is open half day, opening later from 5-10. Saturday and Sundays the park opens at 10 am, Fridays at Noon, closed the rest of the week. 

HowlOScream each year we have gone (and this would be our 8th year) always seems to have something for everyone, and is fall festive fun.