Scarefest 2023 at Alton Towers delivered its signature spooky fun, but while the event was a great time, there's definitely room for some refreshing updates.
The Alton Ancestors Flash Mob was back again this year, and it didn't disappoint. With new music and a fresh dance routine, the daily performance on Towers Street was a hit. The costumes and makeup were fantastic, and the guest interaction was perfect for families, adding a lighthearted touch to the Halloween festivities.
The front lawns came alive with a variety of daily shows, from Halloween parties to live singing and dancing. The energy was infectious, and the atmosphere was elevated by spooky-themed food carts offering treats like "spooky sausages" and a bar serving drinks. It made for a lively hub of entertainment throughout the day.
Daz Games: PANIC!, new for 2023, stood out as an interactive highlight and an unforgettable experience. Even for those unfamiliar with YouTuber Daz Games, the adrenaline-fueled adventure was thrilling. Guests were equipped with RFID wristbands, which were used to track the collection of various symbols scattered throughout the maze. These symbols, cleverly themed to iconic park logos like the Oblivion spiral and the Smiler's twisted face, were incorporated into the maze's design, adding a distinct Alton Towers touch. Flashing lights would intermittently turn on and off, heightening the tension as guests navigated the maze in search of the next symbol. To collect some of the more elusive symbols, players were required to complete specific challenges, adding an exciting layer of strategy and competition. Racing against the clock to secure the fastest time, the maze not only tested speed but also skill and wit. The theming was nothing short of immersive, with live actors intensifying the atmosphere and keeping participants on edge. While the experience was a blast, we'd love to see this concept return next year with a fresh, in-house theme, further evolving the innovative elements introduced this season.
Returning mazes like The Attic: Terror of the Towers were as fun as ever, though we were left wishing for a twist in the storyline or a layout change to keep it feeling fresh. Darkest Depths, a fan favorite, continues to deliver on atmosphere and costumes but is beginning to show its age. It would be exciting to see a family-friendly version during the day and a scarier version at night to cater to different audiences.
Altonville Mine Tours: Tiny’s Revenge received a minor refresh this year with new theming in the queue line and a slight story adjustment at the beginning. While the maze remains a crowd-pleaser, it feels like it’s due for a replacement soon to keep things exciting.
One of the most exciting additions this year was Burial Grounds, located near Wicker Man. This new scare zone offered an eerie pathway filled with impressive effects, fantastic sets, and some genuinely good scares. The 3D sign, flanked by fire torches, set the tone perfectly. This was a standout experience, especially when it opened at dusk, and the theming felt very similar to the welcoming Halloween attraction that was used to market the Wicker Man. The maze's theming closely mirrored the Wicker Man queue line, evoking the same dark, ritualistic atmosphere. At night, it looked absolutely amazing with all the lights and smoke, enhancing the ominous feel even further.
The Scarefest merchandise at the Towers Street store was another great addition. From pin badges to plushies, there were plenty of options to commemorate the event.
While Scarefest 2023 had plenty of high points and entertainment throughout the park, there was an overall feeling that the event's lineup is starting to feel a bit dated. The current mazes, while enjoyable, could use a refresh, and hopefully, next year brings new attractions to breathe fresh life into the event. Here's hoping for some exciting surprises in 2024!
