Halloween is a big industry in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY — Haunted attractions and the Halloween season are a big business here in Utah, drawing in visitors from out of the area.

From Halloween decorations sold in stores to its big-time haunted houses, Utahns are here for it. 

“On the economic side of things, while we’re impacting Utah on a local side, we also know that we’re bringing national attention … and national dollars,” General Manager of Fear Factory Spencer Terry said.

Terry is also the president of the Haunted Attraction Association.

He said Utah is one of the hottest markets for haunted attractions, generating more engagement than many other states. Because of the demand for attractions Utah has more haunts, and they tend to be open more days than haunts in other states.

“That one of the things that really does make Utah specific,” Terry said.

He also said there is a venue for just about every taste here in Utah.

“Each haunted attraction that’s hear in Utah, [they are] a little bit different,” Terry said. “That allows people to get what they want.”

Beyond the business aspect of Utah’s Halloween, Fear Factory co-owner Heidi Dunfield said the haunts act as gathering places and create connections in the community.

“[We get] like wedding invitations in the mail sometimes … They’ll have a little not attached saying, ‘we had our first date there,'” she said. “The same goes for your employees. Like how excited they get … and impassioned about [haunts] … They’re always just wanting to be a big part of it.”

Terry said with the young population in Utah, as well as the per capita income it’s a great place for Halloween enthusiasts.

Michele Rowe is a traffic reporter for KSL NewsRadio. 

Follow @KSLMichele