The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to experience the popular Haunted Hayrides at the Deserted Village of Feltville in the Watchung Reservation. The hayrides will take place Friday, October 23 through Sunday, October 25, with a rain date scheduled for Monday, October 26.
“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 alongside David Felt, the New York businessman who built Feltville in 1845. As the wagon moves through the fields and forest under the cover of darkness, and then into the Village itself, Mr. Felt will recount stories of tragedy and mystery that occurred in the area now known as the Watchung Reservation. The tales are told so vividly that history seems to come alive. The journey culminates with a stop at the Village cemetery, dating back to the 1700s, where a chilling story is told that is certain to stir the imagination, and perhaps even the spirits.
Rides will depart every half hour from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24, and from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 25.
The program is recommended for children age 6 and older, and strollers cannot be accommodated. The full experience lasts approximately one hour and includes both a hayride and a walking portion through the darkened forest. Participants are encouraged to dress warmly, wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a flashlight.
Tickets are $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 Tuesday, September 8 and may be purchased online at ucnj.org/ticket or in person at the following locations:
Trailside Nature and Science Center
452 New Providence Road, Mountainside
Tuesday through Sunday, except holidays, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
908-789-3670
Warinanco Sports Center
1 Park Drive, Roselle
Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
908-527-4900
Space is limited, and early purchase is strongly recommended, as the Haunted Hayrides regularly sell out. Ticket holders who arrive late may only be accommodated on a later ride if space is available.
The Haunted Hayrides are hosted by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Park Environmental Services. For more information, please call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-527-4900.