After receiving an Iowa Tourism Award, a unique haunted house in Pocahontas, Iowa is back by popular demand for year two! Parker Aden, executive director of the Pocahontas Chamber of Commerce explains why The PocaHAUNTus Haunted House happens at the local fire house.
The PocaHAUNTus haunted house takes place in the local firehouse’s training area, giving the town plenty of space to experiment and create a spooky environment for Northwestern Iowa. The final days for the Haunted House are October 25th and 26th and admission is a fundraiser for the Chamber of Commerce, Local Firehouse, and Meals on Wheels.
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Pocahontas Haunted House: A Unique Community Event with Regional Appeal
The Pocahontas Chamber of Commerce, led by executive director Parker Aden, has successfully turned a haunted house event into a celebrated fundraiser. Featured on the Iowa Podcast, Aden explained how the attraction, now in its second year, recently won Travel Iowa’s “Outstanding Niche Market Initiative” award for its innovative approach and community impact.
Firehouse Collaboration Brings Thrills
The haunted house takes place in the local fire department’s practice shed, which provides an ideal setting for the event’s 20 themed rooms. These spaces include creative setups such as a Wizard of Oz scene, a butcher shop, and a circus-themed maze. Local firefighters contribute to the atmosphere, dressing as clowns to engage visitors, while the fire department assists with logistics and volunteer support.
Supporting Local Causes
The event not only delivers entertainment but also contributes to the community. This year, the ticket price increased from $10 to $15, with a portion of each sale going toward Meals on Wheels, a service facing funding challenges. Proceeds are also allocated to the fire department and the chamber, helping fund equipment upgrades, infrastructure projects, and community events, including a sesquicentennial celebration.
Attracting Crowds Beyond Pocahontas
The haunted house has become a regional draw, with more than 600 visitors attending in the first two weekends, putting the event on track to surpass last year’s attendance of 927. Despite Pocahontas’s population of only 1,800, the event attracts many from nearby areas, especially with offerings like “lights-on” tours to accommodate families and visitors preferring a less intense experience. Aden emphasized that the haunted house fosters collaboration among local organizations, providing both entertainment and community development opportunities.