Niles Scream Park raises more than $147,000 for local groups

Friday, December 6, 2024 at 6:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

The Niles Scream Park, one of Michiana’s most popular autumn attractions, recently completed another successful season at its always changing 44-acre site on Mayflower Road between Niles and Buchanan.

This year, the 51st consecutive year for running the project, the Scream Park raised over $147,000 for more than 50 area children’s organizations, civic groups and other charities. Proceeds benefited local schools and service organizations including groups such as the Boy Scouts, Haunters Against Hate, Lake Shore High School Stage Crew, Cass County Fair Association and the LaPorte Little Theatre. The funds raised also will be used for six different college scholarships for local high school seniors. Since 1996, the Scream Park has donated over $2,700,000!!

In addition to the cash donations, the Niles Scream Park supported many local causes, auctions and benefits with ticket donations totaling more than $4,900. Additionally, they awarded $5,000 in college scholarships in 2024.

The project included seven haunted attractions and provided volunteer opportunities both in construction and operation of the Scream Park. Plans are underway for even more frightening additions in the coming year. Over 22,000 hours were volunteered by over 450 different people before and during its 22 nights of operation to prepare and operate the seasonal attraction.

The year also marked a visit from Park interior visitor number 2,700,000. Amber Smith of Kalamazoo, Michigan was the special milestone visitor. She received a gift pack when she visited the Scream Park on Sunday, October 27th, 2024 with her friend Dustin Schnooberger.

The Scream Park is recognized nationally in the haunted house industry. It was listed at #11 on the Haunted House Chicago Official 2024 Top 13 list. The Scream Park was also listed as the #1 “Most Hair-Raising” Attraction by America Haunts!