Watch out for werewolves in the Haunted Forest at the Red Hook Haunting, held this year in the woods of the Unification Theological Seminary on four consecutive nights from Saturday, October 27 through Tuesday, October 30. The witching hour? Seven to 9 p.m. each night.
It’s a safe, family-friendly event that began, says organizer Robert Pumphrey, as a way to take the “evil” out of Halloween and put the fun back in. “I wanted my kids to grow up appreciating the fun of the holiday, not worrying about the safety of it,” he says. The first Red Hook Haunting took place four years ago at his home, sponsored by Pumphrey’s business, Hudson Valley Computer Geek, but has now become big enough to hold on the grounds of the Unification Theological Seminary, whose owners have donated the use of their property for the event.
A party will be held indoors in the auditorium, rain or shine, and outside will be the scary Haunted Forest, only for those over age 9. For the little ones, there’ll be a hayride and maze. Admission costs $10 for adults, $5 for kids under age 12. There’s no cover charge to attend just the party, where food and beverages from vendors will be available for purchase.
Some of the proceeds will benefit the Red Hook Fire Company. Local businesses are sponsoring the event, including the Me Oh My Pie Shop and Café, Red Hook Wine & Liquor, Coffee Boy Co. and Acupuncture by Paul. Costumes are encouraged.
The Red Hook Haunting will be held on four consecutive nights, from Saturday, October 27 through Tuesday, October 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. each night at the Unification Theological Seminary, located at 30 Barrytown Road in Red Hook. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids (under age 9). There’s no cover charge for the party; food and beverages will be available. The Haunted forest is for ages 9 and up. For more information, call (845) 901-7330 or visit www.redhookhaunting.com.
Join the family! 
