Haunted armory opens tonight

Published 8:59 pm Thursday, October 24, 2013

The screams will be heard in the parking lot of the Suffolk National Guard Armory when Suffolk Parks and Recreation presents Legends of the Armory Friday and Saturday nights.

The indoor event is replacing the Legends of Sleepy Hole event the department has held previously in Sleepy Hole Park.

“The past few years, it has rained,” said Emily Upton, special events coordinator at Suffolk Parks and Recreation. “This year, we decided to use our space with the armory. That way, we could go on rain or shine.”

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Victims — err, visitors — will walk through a maze with different kinds of scary scenes, Upton said. The event is for ages 12 and up, but there will be a fall festival at the armory on Oct. 31 that is child-friendly.

“We’re just hoping it’s going to be scary fun, but definitely leaning more on the scary side,” Upton said.

The haunted armory, 2761 Godwin Blvd., will be open from 7 to 11 p.m. tonight and tomorrow, Friday and Saturday. Overflow parking will be available at Sentara Obici Hospital and the Suffolk Family YMCA. Follow all posted parking signs. Police will be on hand to assist people with crossing the street.

Admission is $5 for general admission and $4 for those with student IDs. Part of the proceeds will go to the city’s United Way campaign.

“We’re hoping for a really great turnout this year, especially knowing everyone will be able to go inside because we won’t have to cut off for weather,” Upton said.

Volunteers ages 16 and up also are needed. No prior spooking experienced required.

Call Parks and Recreation at 514-7267 for more information.