Scarborough’s Hollow Reimagines Fall Fun to Replace Screams Halloween Theme Park

For nearly three decades, the grounds in Waxahachie echoed with terrified delight as the Screams Halloween Theme Park reigned supreme. But as the autumn leaves turn this year, a new story unfolds. 

The producers of the beloved Scarborough Renaissance Festival have closed the long-running chapter on Screams, transforming the familiar space into an all-new fall tradition: Scarborough’s Hollow. This inaugural event, running Saturdays and Halloween night from Oct. 11 to Nov. 15, invites you into a world of magic, mischief and seasonal wonder.

Just a 30-minute drive south of Dallas, Scarborough’s Hollow promises a departure from the fright fest of its predecessor. It’s an immersive, family-friendly fantasy festival that celebrates the entire autumn season, from the magic of Halloween to the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos.

From Fright to Fantasy

The shift from Screams to Scarborough’s Hollow is intentional and comprehensive. While Screams was a pure Halloween event “all about fright,” this new festival is designed to be “connected more to the Renaissance Festival,” according to Helaine Thompson, Director of Marketing and Communications for the event.

“We have closed the door on the Screams event,” Thompson explains. “This new event is more about the whole fall experience as opposed to just that singular Halloween experience that Screams was all about.”

This reimagining creates a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Where Screams was not geared toward children, the Hollow is built for families, couples and friends alike. It’s a daytime event that blossoms into the evening, running from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., with extended hours on Halloween night. The goal is to create a space where everyone feels welcome to participate in the seasonal celebration.

“We’re making it from that aspect more similar to our Renaissance Festival event, to where everyone’s welcome,” Thompson says. “There are things that everyone will enjoy here when they come, whether it’s a family with kids or groups of friends.”

The Lore of the Hollow: A Tale of Three Sisters

At the heart of Scarborough’s Hollow is a captivating new story. The lore says that three powerful fairy sisters have taken over the Crown Meadow area of the village, each shaping it with their unique personality.

• Faylan, the Sister of Light: She embodies the wonder of autumn, bringing forth the beauty of the season. Her touch is seen in the kid-friendly activities and the general enchanting atmosphere.
• Slyra, the Mischievous Sister: This playful fae is responsible for the more whimsical and tricky attractions, like the Trickster’s Trail of Leaping Lights and the Masquerade of Mischief Fun House.
• Morwyn, the Darker Sister: Her influence brings the touch of spooky delight. Morwyn’s Manor Haunted House exists within her realm, offering a traditional haunted experience for those who dare.

These characters are more than just a backstory; they are a living part of the festival. Over 40 costumed performers will bring this fantasy realm to life.

“We’ve got a performing company that is going to be on site, so we’ve got actors that are going to bring this world to life,” Thompson tells us.

You’ll also have the chance to meet the three sisters at scheduled meet-and-greets, making for a truly immersive and interactive experience.

“That’s our intent,” Thompson adds. “This is the start. It’s a brand-new event. And that’s where that whole magic, mischief and wonder — that’s our key focus… and we see all of this evolving and growing over the years.”

What Awaits in the Hollow

From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by a classic fall scene: a sprawling pumpkin patch perfect for family photos. From there, the village opens up into a world of activities and attractions. The experience is set to be multi-layered, with general admission covering a wide array of entertainment, while specific attractions are available as add-ons.

Included with Admission:

• Live Entertainment: Five stages will host a variety of acts, including music, comedy, acrobatics and even a “rat and cat circus” with Cirque du Sewer.
• Artisan Village: Explore over 30 artisan booths featuring handmade treasures, from leatherworks and jewelry to chocolates and costuming. Many artisans will be demonstrating their crafts live.
• Trickster’s Trail of Leaping Lights: Walk through a synchronized tunnel of lights that pulse and dance to music.
• Hollow Kids’ Activities: A dedicated area offers a coloring wall, pumpkin ring toss, a kid-friendly maze and other games.
• Fairy Sister Meet & Greets: Meet the characters behind the magic.

Add-On Attractions:

For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, the Hollow offers several ticketed attractions:

• The Hollow’s Hayride: A storytelling journey through the realms of the three fairy sisters, focusing on the lore of the Hollow rather than jump scares.
• Masquerade of Mischief Fun House: A dazzling fun house filled with neon lights, 3D effects and playful jesters.
• Morwyn’s Manor Haunted House: A true haunted house experience with fright actors and jump scares, located in a contained corner of the festival. Thompson notes that this is not recommended for young children.

A Festival for Every Celebration

Scarborough’s Hollow embraces multiple fall holidays with special themed events throughout its run.

On Halloween night, the festival becomes a massive celebration with trick-or-treating for kids at the village shops, a DJ and special performances by Marquis of Vaudeville. A family-friendly costume contest will be held, but with a clear guideline: “Please no gory or frightening costumes,” the event fact sheet states.

The very next day, November 1, the festival transforms to honor Día de los Muertos. The celebration will feature special face painters for sugar skull designs, performances by Mariachi los Reyes de Dallas and Ballet Folklorico, and a costume contest. A procession will travel through the Hollow to an ofrenda memory altar, where guests can place mementos to honor their loved ones.

Other weekends feature unique contests, such as a Decorated Beard Contest (Oct. 11), a Wondrous Witch Hat Contest (Oct. 25) and a Stein Holding Competition (Nov. 15).

Tastes of the Season

It wouldn’t be a fall festival without seasonal treats. Scarborough’s Hollow delivers with a mouth-watering menu. Look for favorites like giant turkey legs and street tacos alongside new offerings such as apple pie nachos, a s’mores funnel cake and BBQ mac & cheese. A highlight is the new s’mores station, where you can purchase a kit and roast your own marshmallows over a fire pit.

For adults, seven pubs will serve beer, wine and mead, with weekly specials and seasonal offerings. The Brews of the Hollow beer tasting events offer a guided experience with a certified cicerone.

Step into the Magic

Scarborough’s Hollow is sure to be a thoughtfully crafted world that blends the immersive artistry of a Renaissance festival with the magic of the fall season. By moving away from pure horror and embracing a broader, more inclusive theme, the creators are building a new tradition for North Texans.

Whether in search of family fun in a pumpkin patch, a mischievous adventure in a fun house or a moment of reflection during a Día de los Muertos procession, this festival offers a path for a wider audience in North Texas. Scarborough’s Hollow is ready to begin its story, and you’re invited to be part of the first chapter.

Scarborough’s Hollow runs on Saturdays and Halloween night from Oct. 11 to Nov. 15, 2025. For the best deal, purchase advance tickets online — $28 for adults, $17 for kids ages 5-12 and children 4 and under are free. Parking is $9 online but will cost more at the gate. You can also grab discount tickets at Albertson’s and Tom Thumb locations.