News Summary
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is launching its annual Howl-O-Scream event, accompanied by a reintroduced chaperone policy for enhanced safety. Visitors aged 15 and younger must be with a chaperone aged 21 or older after 4 p.m. Furthermore, the event will feature two new haunted houses and three new shows. These safety measures will remain in effect through November 2, 2025, ensuring a secure environment for attendees as Halloween approaches.
Williamsburg, VA – Howl-O-Scream Returns with Chaperone Policy
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is set to kick off its annual Howl-O-Scream event tonight, September 5. Alongside the seasonal festivities, the amusement park will reintroduce its chaperone policy, aimed at ensuring a safe experience for all attendees.
The chaperone policy, first implemented last year, comes in response to safety concerns stemming from an incident on September 14, when an 18-year-old male was reported stabbed near the park entrance. After 4 p.m. on Howl-O-Scream nights, all visitors aged 15 years or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old. This chaperone must enter the park with the minors, remain throughout their visit, and be reachable by phone.
Details of the Chaperone Policy
Under the new guidelines, each chaperone is allowed to supervise up to six minors. In cases where guests aged 15 and younger are found without an appropriate chaperone, they may be ejected from the park without a refund. The park reserves the right to enforce this policy earlier than 4 p.m. if necessary. This policy applies to all ticket holders, including those using Fun Cards, passes, and memberships.
In addition to the chaperone policy, Busch Gardens will enforce a bag policy during the Howl-O-Scream nights. Starting at 4 p.m., only wristlets and fanny packs measuring under 8-by-5 inches will be allowed, subject to security inspection. Exceptions to this bag policy may be made for medical reasons.
New Attractions This Year
This year’s Howl-O-Scream event promises to be exciting with the addition of two new haunted houses and three new shows. The expanded entertainment offerings are designed to create a thrilling atmosphere for guests of all ages. The park emphasizes that maintaining the safety and security of guests and team members is its top priority, warranting these policies.
Long-term Implementation of Safety Measures
The chaperone policy will remain in effect through November 2, 2025. Guests aged 16 and older are also required to provide a valid government-issued photo ID with a birth date for entry into the amusement park. These additional measures aim to enhance the experience while prioritizing safety.
As Howl-O-Scream opens, guests can anticipate not only the thrill of new attractions but also assurance in their safety during the event. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is prepared to provide a fun yet secure environment as the Halloween season approaches.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Williamsburg Gears Up for September Events
Busch Gardens Williamsburg Reinstates Chaperone Policy for Howl-O-Scream
Busch Gardens Williamsburg Reinstates Chaperone Policy for Howl-O-Scream
Busch Gardens Williamsburg Launches Beer and BBQ Festival
Busch Gardens Williamsburg Celebrates 50 Years with New Coaster
Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Howl-O-Scream Returns to Busch Gardens
- 13 News Now: Busch Gardens Williamsburg Howl-O-Scream 2025
- Daily Press: Buscuh Gardens Reinstates Chaperone Policy
- WAVY: Busch Gardens Requiring Chaperones During Howl-O-Scream
- WTKR: Busch Gardens Implements Chaperone ID Policy
- Wikipedia: Theme Park
- Google Search: Howl-O-Scream
- Google Scholar: Halloween Events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Amusement Parks
- Google News: Busch Gardens
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
