UNION COUNTY, NJ — Union County residents will have another chance this fall to take a nighttime trip through the Deserted Village of Feltville, where the county is bringing back its popular Haunted Hayrides in the Watchung Reservation.
The hayrides are scheduled for Friday, Oct. 23 through Sunday, Oct. 25, with a rain date set for Monday, Oct. 26.
Rides will depart every half hour from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, according to the Union County Board of County Commissioners.
"The Deserted Village already has an atmosphere and history unlike anywhere else in Union County, but experiencing it at night brings the stories to life in a completely different way," said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. "The Haunted Hayrides have become a favorite fall tradition, and we look forward to welcoming residents back for another memorable weekend."
Participants will board a hay wagon with David Felt, identified as the New York businessman who built Feltville in 1845.
As the wagon travels through fields, forest and the village at night, Mr. Felt will recount stories of tragedy and mystery tied to the area now known as the Watchung Reservation.
The ride ends with a stop at the village cemetery, which dates to the 1700s.
The county said the full program lasts about one hour and includes both the hayride and a walking portion through a darkened forest.
The event is recommended for children age 6 and older, and strollers cannot be accommodated.
Participants are encouraged to dress warmly, wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a flashlight.
Tickets cost $8 for Union County residents and $16 for out-of-county participants.
Purchases are limited to eight tickets per person and must be made in advance for a specific date and time.
No refunds or exchanges will be permitted, and tickets will not be sold on-site during the event.
Tickets go on sale Sept. 8. They may be purchased online at ucnj.org/ticket or in person at Trailside Nature and Science Center, 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside, Tuesday through Sunday, except holidays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or at Warinanco Sports Center, 1 Park Drive in Roselle, Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Space is limited and early purchase is recommended because the Haunted Hayrides regularly sell out.
The event is hosted by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Park Environmental Services. More information is available from the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.
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