Imagine a place where Halloween isn’t just a day, but a year-round passion. Welcome to the world of FrightFest BC (FFBC), a community that brings the spirit of Halloween to life not just in October. And at Fort Camping, we’re proud to be a part of their frightfully fun tradition.
The Origins of FrightFest BC
FrightFest BC’s story begins in 2004, born from a chance meeting between Dyanna Zimmer and Corinne Senger at another Halloween campout, FFNW. Inspired by their conversations with fellow Halloween enthusiasts, Dyanna decided to host a get-together at her place. As Corinne recalls, “It started as a bunch of ‘how-to’s’ and hanging out for a weekend in her barn.”
From these humble beginnings, FFBC grew. The group began discussing local Halloween haunts and activities in the Lower Mainland. Then, as Corinne remembers, “Someone, Ben, I think, found the Halloween weekend at the park (Fort Camping).” This discovery set the wheels in motion for what would become a beloved tradition at Fort Camping.
The Heart of FFBC
What makes FrightFest BC truly special are the personal stories of its members. Here’s a glimpse into what drives their passion:
Shara’s Halloween Journey: Shara’s love for Halloween started in childhood and grew into adulthood. In 2012, she and her husband decided to join FFBC at Fort Camping. “We decided, what the heck, let’s go camp with strangers,” Shara recalls. They immediately felt at home, finding their “Halloween family.” The following year, Shara even went into labor during the FFBC weekend, creating an unforgettable memory.
Erin’s Scare to Share: Erin’s Halloween passion was sparked by a childhood fright from a house with a giant mummy. This experience inspired her to create similar thrills for others. “The thrill of surviving a scary experience is empowering and fun. But doing the scaring is a thrill as well,” Erin explains. She finds joy in watching people react to her creations, calling it “a rush that I never get tired of.”
Fort Camping’s August Halloween Tradition
The first FFBC event at Fort Camping took place around 2006. Corinne shares, “That first year, it was in the top of the activity center. It was hot, and dark and creepy. We were hooked.” The following year, with the construction of the new group shelter, FFBC found its permanent home for their annual haunted house.
“It started with plastic walls and rope,” Corinne explains, “and has evolved into the craziness we put on now. I still don’t know how it all gets done.” This labor of love has become a highlight of Fort Camping’s calendar, bringing the Halloween spirit to campers in the heart of summer.
Why August? Well, it offers perfect weather for campers, especially kids, to show off their costumes without having to cover up with coats. Plus, with school out of session, it’s the ideal time for families to join in the fun.
20 Years of Frights and Fun
For Corinne and many FFBC members, Halloween is more than just scares and costumes. As Corinne beautifully puts it, “It’s the one day of the year you can be whatever you want and you are accepted. It’s the one night of the year where neighbors open their doors to strangers and think nothing of it.” In our globally connected yet locally isolated world, Halloween brings people together, from excited children to joyful seniors.
This year marks a special milestone – FFBC will celebrate their 20th anniversary at Fort Camping from August 8-11, 2024. We can’t wait to see what spine-tingling surprises they have in store for this landmark event!
More Than Just Camping
At Fort Camping, we believe in creating experiences that go beyond just providing a place to pitch a tent or park an RV. Our partnership with FrightFest BC is just one example of how we strive to create lasting memories for our campers. It’s about building a community, fostering creativity, and most importantly, having fun together.
So, if you’re looking for a unique camping experience that combines the joy of camping with the thrills of Halloween, join us this August at Fort Camping. Who knows? You might just discover your inner Halloween enthusiast and become part of the FrightFest BC family!
Remember, at Fort Camping, we’re not just about camping – we’re about creating unforgettable moments with your loved ones. See you in August for a spooktacular time!
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