On Friday, October 5th, the founders of SanDiegoVille were invited to Scream Zone at the Del Mar Fairgrounds for a media party unlike any other we've experienced. A large group of invitees were shuttled from the Scream Zone entrance on Via De La Valle (NOT Jimmy Durante) to the Race Track entrance where we dined on delicious tacos, enjoyed a hosted bar, and watched as costumed ghouls and goblins entertained the room. Looking back on it, we were so peaceful. Then, the horror ensued..... Welcome to the SCREAM ZONE!!
The Scream Zone began in 1998, and to give The Scream Zone new surprises each year, new props, scenes, and "scares" are added each season. For 2012, the Scream Zone incorporates "rolling floors," a spinning tunnel, and many other frights. Strobe lights, pneumatic devices, fog machines and dripping natural elements also create a spooky atmosphere.The Scream Zone is created with the latest in visual effects, sensory deception, props, and creative actors. The spinning tunnel is the largest in San Diego, and is encased in a dark room with glow-in-the-dark effects. Though your feet are on solid ground, you won't think they are! That alone was worth the trip.
The Scream Zone reflects the quality, professional, product and entertainment value that the Del Mar Fairgrounds strives to provide to its patrons. Produced by the Del Mar Fairgrounds and Hollywood experts in the horror and dark attraction industry, the Scream Zone is completely ADA compliant and accessible to all, with the exception of the Spinning Tunnel in The Chamber. Those who can not or do not wish to go through the Spinning Tunnel may go around it.It takes the efforts of nearly 20 builders and staff working more than 2,600 hours to assemble, paint, decorate, and prepare The Scream Zone. Work begins on The Scream Zone early in July, shortly after the San Diego County Fair ends. Materials are hauled in from storage and framing of the walls begins in July. By August most of the walls are assembled, and painting of the rooms begins. Throughout September, props are designed, created, and installed; actors are selected and trained; and final preparations are made for the debut at end of month.
The Scream Zone hires a staff of performers who will spend more than 500 hours preparing their costumes and use over 50 pounds of makeup in preparation for their gripping portrayals of ghouls and monsters. All actors are screened for any convictions through the Megan's Law website and the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. The Scream Zone is one of the safest and most secure haunted attractions in San Diego. Uniformed guards are located throughout The Scream Zone, along with surveillance cameras. Actors are provided "panic" alarms should there be a problem.Tickets to the Scream Zone at the Del Mar Racetrack and Fairgrounds range from $14.99 to $29.99 and can be purchased at the venue or online. For more information, visit The Scream Zone website and follow on Facebook and Twitter. Check out the video below for scenes from last year's terrifying Scream Zone.
THE SCREAM ZONE
located off Via De La Valle (NOT Jimmy Durante)
(858) 755-1161
2012 Dates:
Sept. 28 & 29 (Friday & Saturday)
Oct. 4–7 (Thursday through Sunday)
Oct.11–14 (Thursday through Sunday)
Oct. 17–21 (Wednesday through Sunday)
Oct. 24–31 (Wednesday through Wednesday)
Times: 7:00 p.m.-midnight, Fridays & Saturdays and 7:00-11:00 p.m. on all other days
