Return to ‘Screamfield’ – Plainfield Haunt Opens Oct. 18

For the fourth year, brave guests are invited to descend to the depths of the Village of Screamfield.

The haunted house, located in the basement of the Plainfield Police Department, is a fundraiser for the District 202 Foundation for Excellence. It returns Oct. 18 to 27.

While it’s for a good cause, the residents of “Screamfield” are a little less than benevolent, starting with the creepy, clownish “Mayor Scream.”

Organizer Ken Erdey — who also portrays the mayor — said more than 60 cast members are involved in this year’s production, which includes all-new frights.

“We have our largest cast ever, and we’ve added a couple of rooms,” Erdey said. This year, a new scene will give a nod to “Screamfield’s” roots, since the haunt got its start years ago at Eaton Preserve’s “Haunted Barn.”

“I’m paying homage to the barn a little bit,” Erdey said. Other new scenes include a carnival and a doctor’s office — sure to scare up some fun.

• Want more Plainfield Halloween fun? Click for trick-or-treating hours and a roundup of events.

Planning for the spooky fundraiser goes on virtually year round, he said.

“I’m required by law of my wife to take at least a couple weeks off,” Erdey joked. “It’s a yearlong process.”

While the “full-scare” haunt is not for the faint of heart, “Screamfield” will include three family friendly days to allow parents and their little ones to get in on the Halloween fun. The family friendly events will include a milder version of the haunted house plus face painting, games and a hayrack ride (Oct. 19 and 26).

All proceeds benefit the Foundation for Excellence.

"I've never made a penny," Erdey said. "It all goes right back into the foundation."

About the Foundation for Excellence

Since 1983, the foundation has raised and contributed nearly $400,000 to support District 202 students and staff through grants, scholarships and support for special programming.

The foundation has also supported community-wide initiatives like a District Art Gallery, the Great Read community reading program and the 1847 Schoolhouse Restoration. 

'Screamfield' details

• What: Village of Screamfield haunted house

• Where: Plainfield Police Department, 14300 Coil Plus Dr.

• When:

• Tickets:

• Online: