Village zombies visited this year’s International Fall Festival.

Are you ready for 30 acres of fright? Cause the Village of Terror is just the scare you’re looking for. The conceit is that “a creepy carnival has hit town in a deserted, cursed village,” says Richard Weber, art director. “Unlike a traditional haunt where you just go from room to room … the entire village is haunted, cursed land.” The sprawling show will include several environments, including a cemetery and an asylum, walkthroughs such as Dr. Nightshade’s Collection of Unnatural Wonders and Brutal Oddities, classic carnival rides, and much more. “Of course to get to those things you’ll have to traverse the grounds,” says Lionel Lee, the entertainment director, “in which time you’ll come into contact with any number of zombies, deranged prisoners, and demon clowns.” The show won’t start with full-on horror; those who are faint of heart or who want to bring their children will want to come before the sun goes down to catch some happier clowns, balloon animals, and the haunted hayride. But once the clock strikes seven, watch out. “You’re going to see a dramatic change happen,” says Lee. This is also when the music will begin at the Vampyres Ball. Come to the party decked out and try to win the Costume Contest while you watch the bands competing for the title of Scariest Band in the Valley and stay through the night for the Rave the Dead extravaganza (almost all of the entertainment is local talent). “We’re giving you lots of different corners at our festival,” says Weber, “and the idea is to come and party.” However, warns Lee, “we might just scare you along the way.”

Village of Terror • every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday Oct. 14-31 • Renaissance Park, Nelson Road & 117th St, Chippewa Falls • 4-midnight • $15 adults, kids $6 • 723-9999 • www.festfun.com