FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- As the sun goes down Friday night, and the last flicker of light casts shadows on Thomas Court, one ominous house will be sure to catch the attention of passersby.
Only those courageous enough to venture near it will hear the screams of the souls inside.
The creaky doors of a haunted house will open at 7 p.m. for anyone, ages 10 and older, who dares to confront the terror inside.
Shrieks and evil laughter will echo as teens dressed as ghosts and ghouls lurk in the dark halls, bringing the horror of scary movies to life.
As visitors creep from room to room, they will inevitably face some of their own fears.
Those who suffer from Coulrophobia, or the fear of clowns, may not be able to mask their fright, while meat lovers may convert to vegetarianism when they find out what's on the menu inside the kitchen. Those who take a stab at using the bathroom will be greeted like a prom queen - as in the movie Carrie, that is. Guests will watch a prisoner be served justice and partake in an eerie funeral.
And the tour doesn't end when the house guests exit the haunted building. Teens playing dead will come to life in the cemetery outside.
This year's "Terror on Thomas Court" is sure to be spookier and scarier than ever, said Shanee Jenkins, middle school and teen program coordinator for Child, Youth and School Services and lead coordinator of the haunted house.
"Those who visit are sure to be surprised," she said.
And for those who don't get their fill of fake blood and gore, the house will be open again from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday night, with monsters and goblins galore.
Halloween on Fort Jackson
Looking for something less scary'
-- Children of all ages are invited to the CYSS Fall Festival to participate in crafts and carnival-style games with familiar themes from children's programs such as Blue's Clues and Curious George, from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Solomon Center.
Participants are welcome to wear costumes. No scary costumes allowed.
-- On-post trick-or-treating is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday.
Tips for trick-or-treaters
-- Carry a flashlight with you for visibility.
-- Always stay in a group with an adult.
-- Never enter a stranger's house for a treat.
-- Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the grass away from the street.
-- Look both ways before crossing the street and if you are wearing a mask, take it off.
-- Wait until an adult can check your candy before you eat any of it.
-- Only accept treats from neighbors or friends you know.
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