South Forsyth Family Begins Hayes Haunt Setup for Halloween

More than a month before Halloween 2013, a south Forsyth County family is preparing its annual haunt, which features animatronics, such as those seen in movies and theme parks.

Started in 2002 in the Hayes family's backyard, the haunt has grown so much the family has since added a storage room to the home and a detached shed to house Halloween equipment in the off season. Last year, about 1,000 people ventured through the series of enclosed party tents for a spook and this year, the Hayes family hopes for more.

A portion of the proceeds of Hayes Haunt, which Lynn Hayes describes as "creepy and scary, but not bloody and gory," will go to nonprofit The Place of Forsyth. It serves Forsyth County families dealing with difficult times by providing basic needs in emergencies, operates a thrift store and offers other programs, such as a food pantry.

This year, 22 local students—from elementary schoolers to college students returning home—will serve as actors for the 400-square-foot scare. 

"It's all about giving back to the community and seeing the kids in this element," she said. "When they get dressed up and can be anonymous, they become creative and their acting abilities come out.

"The more reserved kids really engage patrons and it's a self-esteem builder that helps them evolve into confident people and really good actors."

In 2011, the family gained national recognition by winning Haunters Video Awards' Best Indoor or Walk-Through Haunt.

Lynn's husband, Roger, an engineer by trade who is "extremely creative," designs and creates "monsters, contraptions and animatronics," many of the props seen in the haunt, she said.

Hayes Haunt opens Oct. 18, and those looking for a Halloween spook will want to come out early, Lynn said. The reason: Many want to come back and bring more friends along.

If You Go

What: Hayes Haunt

Where: 7435 Cavaletti Circle, Cumming, Georgia 30040

When: Friday and Saturday nights, including Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26 and 31, and and encore Nov. 1

Times: 7 to 10 p.m.

Cost: $5 per person

For more timid guests, "a special protective amulet, magical talisman if you will, may be purchased and worn to ward off the monsters for a 'Hayes Haunt Light' experience," according to hayeshaunt.com.

Allow 15 to 20 minutes to walk through the haunt.

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