CHRISTMAS SEMINARS

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Want to save over $200? Consider signing up for TransWorld’s Holiday Lighting Installer Series, which includes select seminars listed below for a discounted package price! Click here for details!

Commercial Holiday Planning – Strategies for Seasonal Success BUY NOW
Speaker: Caroline Puller, Season Scapes
Thursday: March 7th
Time: 11:15am-12:15pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
If you are new to the industry or have been in it for a while, this session has something for everyone. Caroline will cover everything from why you should get into interior holiday decor, purchasing, vendors, fabrication, warehouse layout, storage, selling and pricing.

Caroline Puller, VP of Visual Design for Seasonscapes, has over 25 years of experience in the holiday industry. Not only does she oversea the daily running of the company but she is passionate about consulting with companies all over the US to ensure they make their holiday business profitable.

Light Up Your Financial Competence BUY NOW
Speaker: Justin Boyd, Boyd Executive Consulting
Thursday: March 7th
Time: 12:30pm-1:30pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Most small businesses struggle with low cash flow and profit, lack of financial clarity, and haphazard pricing strategies. This becomes even more difficult with the seasonal income of Christmas light installation. We will explore some more advanced ways to measure your financial success, forecast the future, and price strategically, giving you confidence to focus on what you do best.

Light Show Advertising: How to Promote and Bring in Customers BUY NOW
Speaker: Vinny Bittinger, Alliance Show Creations
Thursday: March 7th
Time: 1:45pm-2:45pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Advertising is a unique challenge unto itself. You can have the greatest show or display in the world, but if people don’t know about it, you can’t make a profit. In this class, we’ll go over a few of the tactics used over the years that have always proven to be successful. Find ways to effectively market to your customers to maximize profits.

Dimensional Decor: Unveiling the Power of 3D Printing in Christmas Decor BUY NOW
Speaker: Jason Sisk
Thursday: March 7th
Time: 3:00pm-4:00pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Unlock the magic of 3D printing and elevate your holiday decorations to a whole new level! Join our immersive class on “3D Printing – How-to and Practical Applications in Decorating” where creativity meets technology. Whether you’re a seasoned 3D printing enthusiast or a curious beginner, this class is designed to inspire and guide you through the process of creating stunning Halloween and Christmas displays using your 3D printer. From prop mounts, controller mounts, replacement parts and even animatronic parts, you won’t want to miss this class.

Super Size Your Seasonal Spectacles: Ways to Attract Customers by Going BIG! BUY NOW
Speaker: Shane Dabbs, Santa Land
Thursday: March 7th
Time: 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
In today’s holiday market everyone is advertising their shows as to how many lights they have and how they created the largest light show around. Let’s be honest it’s far too common a thing among competitors when you’re focusing on your competition and forgetting about your customers. Your customers are looking for something more than who has the most lights. So why not truly supersize your event into something that your competitors don’t have? We will discuss with you things other than just adding more lights to get noticed. You can do things on a larger scale which is what your customers are wanting and looking for when deciding where to spend their families annual holiday and make it a tradition.

Bright Horizons: Scaling Your Light Business Fearlessly BUY NOW
Speakers: Josh Trees, WeHangChristmasLights.com, David Felt, Russel Williams
Friday: March 8th
Time: 10:00am-11:00am
Room: 262
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
With 17 years in the light installation business, David Felt will discuss how to go from an owner/operator to running several crews, as well as several locations. David will cover branding, marketing strategies, efficiencies with installations and removals, as well as a way to scale up your business to increase revenue and building long term equity into your business. This class is a great opportunity to take things away from a business that services over 4500 holiday light installations each year and is one of the largest light installation businesses in the country. Come hear the many tips and tricks used for efficiencies to help take your business to the next level. If you want to grow your lighting business this is a must attend class!

Elevate Your Holiday Decor Offerings with Next Level LED Tree Wrapping BUY NOW
Speaker: John Alban, Decor IQ
Friday: March 8th
Time: 10:00am-11:00am
Room: 260
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Join us for a special presentation by John Alban, the visionary owner of Decor IQ, where he’ll share easy and exciting ways to take your holiday lighting offerings to the next level. From basic to brilliant, John will guide you through simple tips and creative ideas to make LED tree wrapping part of your business! Don’t miss this chance to add a touch of magic to your holiday season.

Work Safe and Profit More on Sloped Roofs BUY NOW
Speaker: Flent Ballantyne, Ballantyne Gear
Friday: March 8th
Time: 11:15am-12:15pm
Room: 262
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Learn how to:

• Install fall protection in less than 15 minutes, while protecting your installer.
• Use your fall protection as a work system to increase production.
• Use fall protection that will not damage the roof.
• Eliminate excessive swing falls.
• Market your safety to make your business stand out, creating loyalty and more referrals than you’ve ever had.
• Maintain and grow your work force, by keeping them safe.

Crafting Success: Winning Strategies for Commercial Christmas Proposals and RFQs BUY NOW
Speaker: Stacey Jordan, Decor IQ
Friday: March 8th
Time: 11:15am-12:15pm
Room: 260
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Join us for an illuminating session on creating winning commercial proposals and mastering the art of navigating Request for Proposals (RFQs). Led by Stacey Jordan, VP of Sales at Envirolume & Decor IQ, boasting 20 years of industry experience, this session unveils the six essential strategies to triumph in the competitive world of commercial Christmas RFQs. From resetting your mood to being obsessed with detail, Stacey will guide you through each step, offering invaluable insights on defining the request, understanding your client, refining your process, and creating the right solution. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your proposal skills and elevate your success in the commercial Christmas market!

Winter’s Wonders Unveiled: Enchanting Elements for Your Celebration Beyond the Lights BUY NOW
Speaker: Scott Swenson, Scott Swenson Creative Development LLC
Friday: March 8th
Time: 11:15am-12:15pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Every Christmas/Winter event has lights… so what can be added to separate an event from the competition and/or drive additional revenue? This seminar discusses the power and effectiveness of live entertainment, culinary experiences, unique merchandise offerings, VIP upgrades and marketing outreach opportunities. Through case studies, practical suggestions/examples and current market trends, Scott will share his 30 years of theme park and seasonal attraction experience to help participants find ways to make their Holiday events even merrier. Learn realistic ways to make a Christmas event more fun and to increase guest “length of stay”. These additional elements will also give the marketing teams more to talk about for the new year and, perhaps, even generate new story opportunities with local media. Explore new experiences that are brighter than the star on top of the tree!

‘Tis the Season for Success: Crafting Profitable Christmas Events from Scratch BUY NOW
Speaker: Brenda Gonzalez, Six Flags
Friday: March 8th
Time: 12:30pm-1:30pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
This seminar focuses on providing entrepreneurs and event enthusiasts with strategies and insight for organizing a successful Christmas event. We will touch on key points that include: Strategic planning, developing a budget with a focus on ROI, effective marketing, and the exploration of creative revenue streams. This seminar will provide a comprehensive approach to ensuring a successful and joyous holiday event for all.

Interactive Magic for Your Christmas Light Extravaganza BUY NOW
Speaker: Jorden Nash, Nash Creative, LLC and David Peace, Experience Lights
Friday: March 8th
Time: 1:45pm-2:45pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Adding interactivity is a great way to make your show a one-of-a-kind experience and engage your audience! In this class, we will explore triggers, buttons, FPP, song voting, live lighting effects, and more! We’ll guide you on the best places to purchase these elements, how they work, and how to use them as part of your show. Join us for a jolly good time as we turn your Christmas lights from “Oh, that’s pretty!” to “WOW, how did they do that?!?”

Hiring for Glow: A Guide to Recruiting, Managing, and Retaining Seasonal Talents BUY NOW
Speaker: David Felt, Russel Williams
Friday: March 8th
Time: 1:45pm-2:45pm
Room: 260
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
How to recruit, hire and keep good seasonal employees as well as creating the best company culture to retain year-round employees. David Felt, owner of Russel Williams Home Services and Tuff Clips, will discuss how they have grown to over 130 employees and what they have done to hire and retain top tier staff to enable them to run over 40 crews of installers in several cities across the US. This class will take a deep dive into the hiring process for seasonal employees as well as year-round employees, how to retain these valued team members, and how to build a positive work culture. This is an opportunity to learn how to exponentially expand your market and business, which requires employees. From hiring your first employee to the businesses that manage multiple crews, there will be a lot of information to help your business become one that has a high employee retention rate and great company culture.

What it REALLY Looks Like to Work ON Your Business and Not Just IN It BUY NOW
Speaker: Brett Gilliland, Elite Entrepreneurs
Friday: March 8th
Time: 1:45pm-2:45pm
Room: 262
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
If trying to keep up with your growing business is leaving you feeling exhausted or uncertain and you would much rather feel energized and unstoppable, then this session is for you! Brett Gilliland from Elite Entrepreneurs will share practical ways that any busy and overwhelmed business owner can use to start to break out of the day-to-day chaos of running a business in order to intentionally build a new and exciting future.

RGB Lighting Options from Lame to Insane! BUY NOW
Speaker: J. R. Mattos
Friday: March 8th
Time: 3:00-4:00pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
We will be exploring all the types RGB lighting for common and uncommon applications for both Halloween and Christmas applications.

Illuminating Success: Mastering the Art of Permanent Lighting Installation BUY NOW
Speaker: Nick Johnson, Glimpses of Light
Friday: March 8th
Time: 3:00pm-4:00pm
Room: 262
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Do you hang lights on your home or office a few times a year? Are you tired or installing and taking down lights each year for the holidays? How would you like to put them up once and forget about it? Join Nick Johnson as he covers permanent lighting installations. This modern take on trim lights makes it easier than ever to make a home or office look great all year long for every holiday season.

H.O.W. to Start Marketing & Selling Commercial Christmas: Unveiling 5 Expert Tips BUY NOW
Speakers: Stacey Jordan, Decor IQ and Luke Jensen, Jensen Holiday Designs
Friday: March 8th
Time: 3:00pm-5:00pm
Room: 260
$110/attendee (pre-show)
$130/attendee (on-site)
Embark on a journey of insights with our speakers, Luke Jensen, Owner of Holiday Designs, and Stacey Jordan, VP of Sales at Envirolume & Decor IQ. In this engaging session, these industry leaders will share their combined expertise in the art of commercial Christmas marketing and sales. Learn the H.O.W. (Harness, Optimize, Win) approach as they reveal 5 essential tips to kickstart and elevate your ventures in marketing and selling during the festive season. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just entering the field, join us to unlock the secrets that will set you on the path to success in the commercial Christmas market.

The Art of Animation: The Art of Mastering Dynamic RGB/RGBWW BUY NOW
Speaker: Erik Terkelsen, Holidynamics
Friday: March 8th
Time: 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 262
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Are you tired of installing the same static lights year over year? Has the price of color changing options scared most of your customers away? Are you leery of using apps that need to be updated on a regular basis? We have the answer! Dynamic RGB/RGBWW from Holidynamics, Inc. In 2020, Holidynamics, Inc. introduced Dynamic RGB to the holiday lighting industry. It was designed to be simple, affordable, and interactive. Everything is controlled (colors and functions) using a simple, radio frequency remote. No app! No hassle! During this seminar, you will learn how to create amazing residential and commercial displays that are sure to wow all of your customers. One remote controls it ALL! From Dynamic RGB wreaths and garlands to tower trees and C9 bulbs, Holidynamics, Inc. has you covered. We are excited to announce that we have added RGBWW and RGBPW to our Dynamic line of RGB that will also be covered during this seminar.

Pixel Displays 101  BUY NOW
Speaker: Tom BetGeorge, Magical Light Shows
Friday: March 8th
Time: 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Have you ever seen a viral holiday light show but don’t know where to begin? This class will cover the basic components, software options, creativity, and general overview of the enchanting world of pixel animated light shows. Whether you’re a hobbyist, an artist, or a tech enthusiast, this course will equip you with the confidence to design, program, and execute a stunning light show.

Radiant Celebrations: Mastering Event Lighting for Weddings & Beyond BUY NOW
Speakers: Kelle McCarty & Eryn McCarty, The SociaLights Team
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 9:00am-10:00am
Room: 260
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Learn how to leverage your Christmas light knowledge into year-round weddings and events. In this class, you’ll learn best practices for finding new business, quoting potential projects, and executing on them successfully. We’ll also touch on the importance of leveraging previous projects into new business.

Shining Success Part 1: Navigating Commercial Installations with Expertise BUY NOW
Speakers: Luke Jensen, Holiday Designs; Josh Trees, WeHangChristmasLights.com
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 9:00am-11:00am
Room: 262
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
In this 2-hour course we will walk through the basics of installing commercial décor such as panel trees, pole mount décor, 3D displays, wreaths, garland and more. We will also review common installation tools, tips, and tricks. The first hour will be lecture style. The second hour will be hands-on experience.

The Art of Landscape / Architectural Lighting and How to Paint a Lighting Portrait BUY NOW
Speaker: Nate Mullen, Trade Secrets of Lighting
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 10:15am-11:15am
Room: 260
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of lighting and will start you down the road of how to comprehensively design a great lighting design/lighting portrait. How well a project can be lit is not limited to the quantity of light fixtures. A proper lighting job takes what it takes. We will cover the key principles on how to create depth and visual destination to fully have usable space on the property. Without lighting there is no space being created, which means your clients can not enjoy their outdoor living area. We will take 10 minutes on proper install. Q and A at the end.

Creating Sky-High Spectacles with Drone Dynamics! BUY NOW
Speaker: Preston Ward, Sky Elements
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 10:15am-11:15am
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)

Hands-On Workshop Part 2: Diving Deeper into Commercial Installations BUY NOW
Speakers: Luke Jensen, Holiday Designs; Josh Trees, WeHangChristmasLights.com
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 11:15am-1:15pm
Room: 262
$110/attendee (pre-show)
$130/attendee (on-site)
In the second part of this series, we will get hands-on and fully assemble, fluff, and breakdown a 14 ft. tree. We will review the tools needed, best practices, safety, making the tree “come to life”, proper breakdown, and storage techniques. This is an interactive class.

Projection Perfection: Crafting Mind-Blowing Effects with Projection Mapping BUY NOW
Speaker: Jorden Nash, Nash Creative, LLC
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 11:30am-12:30pm
Room: 260
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Projection mapping is an incredible technology that allows you to transform any surface into a dynamic canvas for storytelling. This cutting-edge tech involves the use of projectors to create unbelievable, moving, and interactive elements as you’ve never seen them before. This course will cover projection and playback technology, a live demonstration of creating a projection map, and a walk-through of animated content creation using Adobe After Effects. Time permitting, we will also touch on how AI can help with the content creation process. Join us to learn how to create an immersive and engaging experience that will captivate and inspire your audience!

xLights Commercial Expertise: From Concept to Reality BUY NOW
Speaker: Clyde Lindsey, Pixel Pro Displays
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 11:30am-12:30pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
This course offers a comprehensive journey from understanding the basics of xLights to the real-world application in a commercial setting. You’ll learn to integrate controller and xLights models with the display layout, troubleshoot common issues, and optimize large-scale displays. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to gain insights and connections with an xLights veteran with over 12 years experience. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional, this course will combine real-world experience with in-depth knowledge, helping you plan a successful commercial project using xLights.

Adding Joy with JumboTrons! DIY vs Professional Builds BUY NOW
Speaker: Nick Johnson, Glimpses of Light
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 12:45pm-1:45pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
You’ve seen the overpriced digital screens and billboards. Now you can learn how to build your own for a fraction of the price. From a small single panel display to one containing millions of pixels.

Let Story Lead: Concept Design & Worldbuilding Your Event BUY NOW
Speaker: Jimmy Langa, IWG Productions
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
This course explores creating dynamic narrative, originating IP, and developing cohesive art direction for experiential attractions. In this class you will learn practical techniques to shape wholistic concepts and lore for seasonal events. Attendees will leave with a comprehensive understanding of how to:

• Ideate a complete concept from inception to execution.
• Approach project/business decisions through the perspective of story.
• Optimize your “world” with ancillary revenue opportunities.
• Cultivate a following of loyal patrons with narrative content.
• Distinguish your attraction in the marketplace by leveraging unique mythos.
• Apply these lessons towards any live experience

Brilliance Beyond Lights: Mastering Marketing and Branding for Your Business BUY NOW
Speakers: Josh Trees, WeHangChristmasLights.com and Nicole Ginsburg, Frightmare Farms Haunted Screampark & Aster Farmstead
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm
Room: 262
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Uncover the secrets to making your business shine brighter than the festive lights themselves! In this dynamic seminar series, we’ll delve into the art of marketing and branding specifically tailored for YOU. From creating a magnetic brand identity to crafting compelling marketing strategies that illuminate your business, this series is designed to empower you with the tools to stand out. Josh and Nicole will cover:

• Glow Up Your Brand Identity: Explore the essentials of creating a brand that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impression.
• Strategies for Festive Marketing: Uncover proven marketing tactics to boost your visibility and attract customers.
• Social Media Enchantment: Dive into the world of social media and learn how to leverage platforms to create buzz and engagement that lasts all year round.
• Holiday Hustle: Crafting Compelling Promotions: Discover the art of crafting irresistible promotions that drive sales and create customer loyalty.
• Reviews and Referrals: Building a Glowing Reputation: Learn how to cultivate positive reviews and leverage customer referrals to enhance your business reputation.

Join us for this illuminating seminar and transform your business into a shining success!

Drive-Through Christmas Shows for the Installer BUY NOW
Speaker: Tom BetGeorge, Magical Light Shows
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm
Room: 260
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Want to expand your horizons with drive-through experiences? This class will go over logistics, costs, and the process for setting up a drive through display. This overview will give you tools, data, and lessons from experience from building 20 drive through shows across the country!

Adding Non-Traditional Effects for an Over the Top Response BUY NOW
Speaker: Jorden Nash, Nash Creative, LLC
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 3:15pm-4:15pm
Room: 263
$55/attendee (pre-show)
$65/attendee (on-site)
Push your creativity by using the latest in cutting edge tech and bring your show to the next level! In this class, we will cover adding special effects to your display. These include fog, sparks, snow, fire, bubbles, moving heads, and even more! You’ll learn how to incorporate these into your existing display and where to get them. We’ll also chat about DMX and how to control and program all of these new toys through xLights. By attending the class, you’ll understand how to incorporate these new effects into you light show like a pro, ensuring a seamless and jaw-dropping performance every time!

Town Hall BUY NOW
Speaker: Multiple Speakers
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 3:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 262
$110/attendee (pre-show)
$130/attendee (on-site)

All seminars and event payments are final at the time of purchase. Seminars and events are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Attendees must be at least 10 years old. Kids between 10-15 years old need to have a copy of their birth certificate. Kids 16 and older need a driver’s license or a government issued id. A valid photo id for every attendee is required for entry. All seminars and events are subject to change.

FREE SEMINARS

Thursday, March 7

*EARLY BIRD* Acquire The Perfect Retail Location For Your Seasonal Business
Speaker: Holly Bowling, Halloween Express
10:00am-11:00am
Room 123
This seminar will focus on finding, leasing and moving into the ideal spot for a temporary seasonal retail business. Bring your questions and let’s solve the problems you have been encountering on your search for a great location.

Friday, March 8

*EARLY BIRD* Panel: Insurance Insights – Navigating Event Protection
Moderator: Randy Bates (Bates Motel and Haunted Hayrides)
Speakers: Granite Insurance, FCIS Insurance and Leavitt Recreation and Hospitality Insurance
10:00 am -11:00 am
Room 123
No one likes to talk about it but everyone needs it… Insurance! What if you could hear from the top companies all at once and leave with a firm understanding of your needs? You can! Join us for a casual, yet informative, panel discussion featuring leading insurance companies who are ready to tackle the subject of event insurance and liability exposure. This seminar will cover complexities of coverage, offer strategic insights, and give you the ability to compare the coverage you actually need!

Saturday, March 9

*EARLY BIRD* Unlocking the Gate: Navigating Ticketing Solutions in the Digital Age
Moderator: Bud Stross (Dent School House)
Speakers: Etix, TicketSpice, HauntPay, FearTicket (powered by Hytix), TicketLeap and Brushfire
9:00 am-10:00 am
Room 123
This fast-paced session is your VIP pass to unraveling the complexities of modern ticketing. Explore a spectrum of platforms, from the tried-and-true to the cutting-edge, as Bud Stross and the panel of experts provide insights and share industry-specific features. In just one hour, you’ll gain the knowledge needed to make savvy digital ticketing decisions for your business! This crash course is meant to help you up your game and connect you with a service that is right for you!!

Sunday, March 10

*EARLY BIRD* Overcoming the Fear of Sponsorships
Speaker: Dr. Michael Book, Danger Run
10:00 am-11:00 am
Room 123
A seminar developed for attraction & event producers looking to generate revenue from sponsors. This seminar is dedicated entirely to curating paid sponsorship opportunities. Samples will be discussed along with methodology to help you overcome the fear of sponsorships and set you up for success.

FREE Exhibitor Seminars

Friday, March 8

Strategic Marketing and Pricing for Your Haunt
Speaker: Bryan Jenkins, TicketSignup
10:00am-11:00am
Room 127
This is not your average marketing presentation. Join us to dive into the data of haunts and identify a few underutilized opportunities to increase your participation and maximize your per-ticket revenue. In this seminar, we’ll look at cost effective ways to drive repeat attendance (and encourage those attendees to bring more people). It’s cheaper and easier to convince a fan to return (with a friend) than to find a new Halloween enthusiast to replace them the following year! Additionally, we’ll dive into the impact of pricing on ticket sales – both before the event and on-site. The ultimate goal: sell more tickets, earlier, and with lower fees for you!

Q & A with Shane Dabbs of Santa Land
Speaker: Shane Dabbs, Santa Land
10:00am-11:00am
Room 130
Looking to start a Christmas event or maybe you have an existing one that’s in need of some help, maybe a project has you stumped and you just don’t know where to turn or who to ask? From Locations to Lighting, Set designs to Santa, Concession to Creations and all in between, he will take your questions, answer them and guide you in the direction of a successful seasonal attraction!

Don’t Be A Bigfoot Business: How To Get Discovered With Better SEO And Social Media
Speaker: Jake Zufelt, Weldwood Marketing
11:15am-12:15pm
Room 130
Embark on a journey to transform your business from a mythical, rarely seen entity like Bigfoot into a well-known and easily discoverable brand. This session is dedicated to business owners, marketers, and entrepreneurs keen on mastering the art of being found online. We’ll dive into the critical tactics of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and effective Social Media strategies, ensuring your business stands out in the digital forest.

Financial Fundamentals – Your Business’s Secret Sauce
Speaker: Blue Skies
12:30pm-1:30pm
Room 130
As a business owner, you NEED to know your numbers and have them presented in a way that is useful and practical. We will run through a profit and loss and balance sheet and explain how to use them to make decisions in day to day operations for growth and increased profitability. I’ll also show a few red flags to look out for and what they mean. No matter where you are in your business journey, solid financial fundamentals are key!

Fraud, Chargebacks, and Safeguarding your Revenue
Speaker: Ticketspice
1:45pm-2:45pm
Room 130
Stay ahead of the ever-evolving realm of payment security. Join TicketSpice for an insightful seminar on navigating the complex landscape of chargebacks, fraud, and learn effective mitigation strategies. In this session TicketSpice shares practical and technical tools and strategies designed to safeguard your event against financial losses.

Elevate Your Earnings, Halloween Express Guide To Haunt Retail
Speaker: Halloween Express Team
3:00pm-4:00pm
Room 130
Climb the ladder to increased profitability! In this seminar, we delve into the strategies and tactics employed by Halloween Express to transform your haunted attraction into a lucrative retail destination. From product selection and merchandising techniques to customer engagement and seasonal promotions, discover how to captivate your audience and boost sales in the spine-chilling world of haunted attractions. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind Halloween Express’ success and learn how to elevate your earnings to new heights.

Revolutionize Your Attraction with Chatbots at Transworld 2024
Speaker: The Stobee Team
4:15pm-5:15pm
Room 130
Join us at Transworld 2024 for an enlightening session on leveraging chatbots to transform your entertainment venues and attraction centers. This workshop is designed to show you how chatbots can drastically enhance customer interaction, increase ticket sales, and provide round-the-clock support without the need for additional staffing. Learn from industry leaders about maximizing chatbot potential to not only improve visitor experience but also to see swift returns on investment. We’ll explore strategies for using chatbots to convert inquiries into sales, ensure 24/7 visitor support, and share real-life case studies of attractions that have witnessed remarkable financial growth. This session is perfect for anyone in the entertainment and attractions industry looking to stay ahead of the curve and embrace the future of customer engagement. Don’t miss the opportunity to transform your venue and skyrocket your success with chatbots!

Saturday, March 9

The Scariest Exhibition: Tax and Accounting Strategies
Speaker: Brandon West, 77 Financial
9:00am-10:00am
Room 127
You work too hard to miss a single deduction. Let’s talk about business structure, minimizing payroll taxes, maximizing deductions, and investing business profits. Let’s tackle the ugly, unfun, ghastly horror of small business taxation.

Zombie Undead Werewolf
Speaker: Bobbie Weiner, Bloody Mary
9:00am-10:00am
Room 132
Bring a friend to work on and turn them into this living nightmare, Bloody Mary’s newest creature. You will receive an FX Makeup Kit with all you need to create and bring this new monster to life that Bloody Mary has created. With the tools Bloody Mary provides you with, you or your partner will be turned into a Zombie UNDEAD Werewolf. Get there early to get a seat for you and your partner. There will be a Bloody Mary Raffle to win great prizes at the end of the Bloody Mary Workshop. Whoever wins the best makeup will be featured in one of the newest upcoming “Tales of Bloody Mary” Comic Books.

Show Control for Live Interactive Experiences – The COGS story
Speaker: Team from Clockwork Dog, COGS
9:00am-10:00am
Room 130
Join the team from Clockwork Dog to learn about their product COGS – a hardware/software platform designed specifically for the demands of modern interactive experiences such as escape rooms, haunted houses and immersive theater.

Clockwork Dog started out in the Escape Room industry in 2016, designing and running their own award-winning escape rooms, before deciding to focus all of their energy on developing COGS – the show control system they created to run their own experiences, and which now runs shows like Saw: The Escape Experience & Monopoly Lifesized.

They’ll talk through the history of COGS leading up to the recent release of COGS 5 which brings a host of new features including the ability to control wireless devices such as smart bulbs and smart plugs. This is a great opportunity to learn more about COGS and how it can help you push the boundaries and create the live experiences of tomorrow.

Family friendly pumpkin trails , decor and more ! 
Speaker: Debbi Katz, Jack O Lantern Journey
10:15am-11:15am
Room 130
Debbi Katz, industry expert, will share her extensive knowledge on Family Friendly Halloween. Whether you are looking to create a new pumpkin trail, enhance your pumpkin decor or add something wonderful to your existing venue, this is a must see presentation.

Highway to SELL (More Tickets!) — A Masterclass in Marketing & Business for Attractions
Moderator: Ernest Corder, President of FearWorm
Panel: Heidi Dunfield, Fear Factory; Matt Herzog, Pennhurst Asylum; Jeremy Hastings, Dead End Hayride and Pinehaven Farm
11:30am-12:30pm
Room 130
This expert, insightful Q&A panel will bring you three of the most successful haunted attraction owners with multiple decades of real, hard earned experience owning and operating several of the TOP-RATED, profitable haunted attractions in the United States! If you are looking for answers on HOW your haunt can win in 2024, you won’t want to miss this amazing, once in a lifetime panel!

The Ghost In The Machine: How Artificial Intelligence Can Help Digital Marketing and Communications in the Haunt Industry.
Speaker: Mark O’Shea and Steve Richo, “Noise New Media” 
12:45pm-1:45pm
Room 130
Learn the scary reality of how AI can amplify efficiency in the industry, not by replacing but by
augmenting the human touch. Leave the workshop with 3 practical uses you can implement
immediately!

The Top 5 Pitfalls of Your Insurance Program
Speaker: Granite Insurance
2:00pm-3:00pm
Room 130
Discussing the most common problems that the Haunted Attraction industry faces in their insurance program

Digital Media Tactics Proven to Drive Ticket Sales to Your Event
Spakers: Ernest Corder and Matt Nelsen from Redroc Austin
3:15pm-4:15pm
Room 130
Discover the latest tactics and strategies in digital media designed to build audiences and push
them down the sales funnel to purchase tickets. Ernest Corder and Matt Nelsen from Redroc
and FearWorm share some of their most successful media methods to help drive attendance to
holiday festivals, seasonal events, or any type of ticketed attraction. This seminar will teach you
how to:

• Build multiple outreach funnels through social media channels
• Drive audiences into retargeting platforms to increase engagement
• Move those audiences into online sales
• Convert abandoned carts to sales
• Build first party audiences using mobile phone tracking technology
• Reach beyond keyword search marketing to lower your costs

We’ve successfully promoted thousands of events in this ever-changing marketing world. Bring
your questions and learn new tricks at this seminar, and walk away with tactics you can use
now.

“Feeding the Beast: 25 Years of Statesville Haunted Prison” Documentary Screening and Q&A
Speaker: John and Kyle LaFlamboy, Zombie Army Productions/HellsGate Haunted House
4:30 pm-5:30 pm
Room 123
Join John and Kyle for a screening of the Emmy Award winning documentary about the final days of the legendary Statesville Haunted Prison. We will watch the doc and hold a Q&A about the last days of Statesville; what led to closing a highly successful show, how Zombie Army maximized every financial benefit to closing a show, and the lessons learned about closing a show successfully. This should be a lot of fun, bring popcorn and drinks!

“Feeding the Beast: 25 Years of Statesville Haunted Prison” is a 37 minute mini-documentary about Statesville Haunted Prison. From its humble beginnings as a bunch of theater kids on a farmer’s property to the massive, aggressive beast that it ultimately became, watch as a group of friends unknowingly launched what would become one of Chicago’s legendary haunted attractions, from the earliest days right up through its very last night on November 6, 2021. If you loved Statesville Haunted Prison, keep the tissues handy.

Interactive Entertainment Seminars

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Thursday

Elevating Business Operations: Work Smarter, Not Harder BUY NOW
Speaker: Javiera Kalback, Portsmouth Escape Room / Tamara Bertrand, NW Escape Experience
Thursday 11:15am-12:15pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Discover the secrets to transform your business into a well-oiled machine. This seminar equips business owners with the essential tools and strategies to streamline their operations, enhance productivity, and reclaim their work-life balance. Learn how to break free from the 24/7 grind and the need to be always present by optimizing processes, leveraging technology, and delegating effectively so you can re-focus on business growth while regaining personal time.

Do Not Be Afraid to GROW! Expanding Your Business In BIG Ways In an Uncertain Economy. How to Diversify, Grow, Elevate and Make the Right Moves for Your Business! BUY NOW
Speaker: Aaron and Jessica Souza, Extreme Escape Redding, Extreme Escape Elevated, The Selfie Spot Redding and Timberlords Axe Throwing Range
Thursday 12:30pm-1:30pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Is your business brick & mortar, mobile or both? Aaron and Jessica have quickly adapted to the ever-changing climate of the entertainment businesses they own. While the economy has proven to be anything but predictable, they have capitalized on growing in uncertain times. They have learned new ways to elevate their experiences, capture new audiences, maintain a steady customer base and grow their business in a time of mass business closures.

Are you looking for new ways to grow your business? Still trying to make a footprint and stand out in your community? Do you have what it takes to lock in local events and companies to long-term contracts? Looking for a way to feed your business financially and flood it with new customers? Want to grow your business in new ways but don’t know where to start?

Aaron and Jessica Souza will provide you with all the answers and tools to be successful in growing your business in an uncertain economy as well as hitting on topics such as:

• How to expand the business you already have in various ways.
• Pros & cons of adding various events to your business.
• Knowing when to add and when to expand.
• Managing the budget without short-changing the experience.
• How to capture new customers.
• Managing staffing throughout your growth.
• Ways to maximize your marketing.
• Benefits of taking the leap to grow NOW!
• How to plan in advance for a quick opening date (time is money!).
• Learn how to step outside of your comfort zone and jump into new growth.

Risk, Agency, and Threat: Helping Your Audience Tell Their Own Stories BUY NOW
Speaker: Jono Naito-Tetro, Intrigue & Co., DVC Games
Thursday 1:45pm-2:45pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
As experience designers, we specialize in curating distinct emotions and experiences, whether it’s spine-tingling fear, boundless joy, or the triumphant sense of accomplishment. While we boast a repertoire of proven models, our goal is to transcend the ordinary and uncover innovative twists, add-ons, and choices that empower our audiences to take the reins of their adventure in our spaces, ultimately expanding our market share through inventive strategies.

Picture this: It’s not just about delivering an experience; it’s about granting your audience ownership. We’ll delve into the realm of optional content, choose-your-own-path structures, intriguing quests, interactive character engagements, and even pioneering new dimensions of fear and delight. By offering these customizable elements, we empower your patrons to shape their unique narratives within your space.

This isn’t merely about elevating experiences; it’s about revolutionizing them. Our approach aims to widen your market reach by infusing ingenuity and innovation into every facet of your offerings. Join us on this journey to redefine adventure ownership and witness the transformative power of granting your audience unparalleled agency in their immersive encounters at your venue.

Enlivening Experiences: The Art and Importance of Improv In Your Experience BUY NOW
Speaker: Matt Marberry, Odd-O-Ts’ Entertainment
Thursday 3:00pm-4:00pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Improv isn’t just about quick thinking, it’s a catalyst for innovation, connection, and enriching experiences across all industries! Discover the integral role of spontaneity, adaptability, and collaboration in creating dynamic experiences that captivate and leave a lasting impact! This seminar isn’t just about stage performance, it’s about infusing spontaneity into your experiences, enhancing engagement, and elevating the overall journey for your participants! Whether you’re in entertainment, customer service, or experience design, this seminar will provide invaluable tools and perspectives on leveraging the art of improv to enliven and invigorate every interaction, ensuring memorable experiences for all involved!

Unlocking Corporate Business: Strategies, Options and Effective Tactics BUY NOW
Speaker: Chris Burfield & Tina Burfield, Timed Out Escape
Thursday 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
In today’s corporate landscape, team building activities have evolved beyond mere social outings. Interactive entertainment venues, notably escape rooms, present a unique opportunity for organizations to shift their perspective on team development. Join us in exploring innovative strategies to revolutionize corporate engagements and transform these events into impactful experiences that foster personal and team growth.

Escape rooms and other interactive entertainment activities have emerged as compelling tools for team building, offering far more than casual social interactions. By redefining the concept of ‘team building’, these venues hold the key to unlocking untapped potential in personal and team development. In this session, we’ll uncover how to maximize the value delivered to clients while significantly enhancing revenue per participant.

Discover strategies that reimagine these events as catalysts for personal growth, leadership development, and enhanced teamwork. Gain insights into leveraging the immersive nature of escape rooms to create tailored experiences that not only entertain but also challenge participants to collaborate, communicate effectively, and strategize under pressure.

This seminar is designed for entertainment venue owners, corporate event planners, and anyone seeking to elevate their approach to team development activities. Learn how to seamlessly merge entertainment and development, ensuring that every interaction becomes an opportunity for professional growth and team bonding.

Join us for a transformative discussion on reshaping team building from a social outing to a dynamic platform for personal and professional advancement, significantly increasing the value proposition for clients and participants alike

Friday

Boom! Beep! Bang! Tick! Crafting Dynamic Sound & Music Design for Escape Rooms BUY NOW
Speaker: Troy Armstrong, Game Designer at “The Escape Game”
Friday 11:15am-12:15pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of sound design with this seminar, a rallying call for designers to recognize the often neglected significance of sound in their creative process. It’s time to shift the focus and ponder how sound can amplify and complement visual designs right from the start.

Step into actionable territory with valuable tips and resources on how any company can elevate their sound design! Tony will offer practical takeaways without the need for complex technical expertise. The seminar is crafted to empower everyday owners, fostering confidence in pushing boundaries in sound creation without overwhelming complexity.

Led by a seasoned expert with a music composition background and seven years in the escape room industry, this seminar focuses on bridging theory with hands-on application. Each attendee will walk away with techniques to enhance current audio designs or reshape the delivery of audio experiences, with the ultimate goal of fostering a holistic appreciation for sound as a pivotal component in immersive design. Get ready to “up your game” and embrace sounds as an integral part in crafting unforgettable experiences!

Mastering the FUNdamentals: Customers, Employees, and Community Connections BUY NOW
Speaker: Nicole Ginsburg, Intrigue & Co./Frightmare Farms Haunted Screampark/Aster Farmstead/Blast CNY
Friday 12:30pm-1:30pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
What do “New”, “Different”, “Hot” and “Trending” all have in common in the entertainment industry? Nothing… and everything all at the same time!

It’s time to pull back the curtain and reveal what is at the heart of every successful new, different, hot and trending concept! This seminar was specifically designed to share invaluable wisdom and spark creative inspiration, setting the stage for you to craft immersive experiences that thrive, resonate, captivate, and leave a lasting impression on your guests, employees and community!

There are core principles that fuel unforgettable experiences – and it’s time to share! This isn’t just about the basics, it’s about sharing the answers to the mystery of success, rediscovering the roots of your business and decoding the heart of all interactive entertainment.

So if you have 1 concept or 10, are looking to start something new or want to breathe life into your flatlined business, Nicole is ready to help jump-start your innovation, re-engage and give you the FUNdamentals that pave the way for success… every time!

Worldbuilding: Creating Worlds That Resonate BUY NOW
Speaker: Nicholas Moran, Phantom Peak
Friday 1:45pm – 2:45pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Dive into the realm of worldbuilding with “Worldbuilding: Creating Worlds That Resonate”. This talk will be an encapsulation of everything Phantom Peak, an award-winning open-world experience in London, which becomes our blueprint for captivating audiences.

Here, Nicholas will dissect the how and “how to’s” of engaging an audience, and, more importantly, turning customers and players into passionate fans!

This session will dissect the elements that make Phantom Peak a repeated destination for its visitors. It’s not just about creating a world; it’s about igniting a universe brimming with compelling stories and unforgettable characters. We’ll uncover how to construct narratives that strike a chord and settings that are more than mere backdrops. This session is perfect for storytellers, game designers, or anyone passionate about creative world-building.

Community Thrills: Secrets to Seamless Collaborations with Interactive Entertainment and Local Businesses BUY NOW
Speaker: Brian Vinciguerra, Cracked It Escape Games
Friday 3:00pm-4:00pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Join us for this dynamic 1-hour seminar designed for small business owners in the interactive entertainment space. Discover the art of forging successful partnerships with local businesses, leveraging technology for collaborative efforts, and creating community-centric events. This seminar offers practical strategies, to enhance your understanding of the local business ecosystem and learn how to craft win-win scenarios for mutual growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to network, gain valuable insights, and drive your business forward in an ever-evolving industry.

Empowerment Hour: Overcoming Obstacles and Creating Beyond The Mental Blocks BUY NOW
Speaker: Benito Suppa, Durham Escape Rooms
Friday 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
The world sees: Immersive, interactive, ingenious… but for most of us, it all started as intimidating! We all have had to pave our own way in this industry, often forced to create without a manual. Have you ever found yourself questioning your abilities or doubting your path? The answer is: YES. We have all faced moments of self-doubt, battling imposter syndrome and other mental obstacles to get where we are and will need to do it again to get where we want to be!

Join Benito for an empowering hour where he will identify these hurdles and share insights from healthcare experts on overcoming them. As a group, we’ll foster a supportive environment, encouraging each other’s growth. Drawing from personal experiences, Benito will share stories of triumph over similar challenges, aiming to inspire and push beyond limitations.

This seminar is for all that are ready to take on the true challenges of being in business once and for all! If you are ready to uplift one another and stride forward united, armed with resilience and strategies to triumph in the ever changing entertainment industry… this seminar is for you!

Saturday

Memorable Branding: How to Stand Out From the Crowd! BUY NOW
Speaker: Zoli Papp, Zolitopia
Saturday 10:15am-11:15am
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Have you ever struggled to remember a company’s name with that cool experience? Well, so did others! A memorable brand will not only help your bottom line but will also secure a long term future for your company. Branding that stands out from the crowd will help your customers to recommend you first above all to their friends and family. Just imagine this:

Customer: I’ve been to an escape room and it was so much fun!
You: Awesome, which one did you play?
Customer: Ugh, I don’t remember the company, it was something about [insert generic theme].

In the ever growing market of escape rooms and immersive experiences it’s becoming crucial to create a brand that’s easy to recognize and remember. Join me for this talk to learn about branding best practices and the different approaches to it, so next time your customers will have no problem remembering where to send their friends for their next experience.

Ultimate Immersion: World Building at Meow Wolf BUY NOW
Speaker: Derek Pendergrass, Executive Director of Exhibition Technical Arts at Meow Wolf
Saturday, March 9th
Time: 11:30am-12:30pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
They took the immersive world by storm with the release of Meow Wolf in 2008. Since then they have been paving the way on immersive entertainment innovation!

Embark on an exclusive exploration with Derek Pendergrass, the esteemed Executive Director of Technical Arts at Meow Wolf, while he takes you on a journey into the heart of Meow Wolf’s world-building magic! Derek will share how intricate integration of audio, video, lighting, and cutting-edge technologies transform static spaces into living, breathing works of art!

In this illuminating seminar, discover the symbiotic relationship between technology and storytelling, exploring how Meow Wolf breathes life into exhibits, allowing them to dynamically respond to guest interactions. Pendergrass will showcase the fusion of art and tech that defines Meow Wolf’s unique approach, offering a rare glimpse into the world-building wonders that have made Meow Wolf a global phenomenon.

Don’t miss this opportunity to delve in and witness firsthand the future of immersive experiences!

Unleashing Agency: Bridging the Worlds of Tabletop Gaming and Escape Rooms to Redefine Experiential Design BUY NOW
Speaker: Juliana Moreno, Wild Optimists
Saturday 12:45pm-1:45pm
Room:127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Let’s get interactive! Designers in the tabletop gaming and escape room industries have always worked using the medium of agency, which is exactly what today’s guests are looking for across the board in their experiential spending. In fact, the term “guest” is outdated. People don’t want to be guests, they want to be inhabitants/participants/heroes. How can you use this innate desire to create memorable and unique experiences? How can you allow people to engage with the space and characters, while still moving them through the experience? Increased interactivity is the future and it has its origins in tabletop gaming and escape rooms. There is so much to be learned from studying how design works and how those design lessons can be translated off-the-board and out of the room!

Let’s Talk About Tech! Entry Level Tech: Sensors, Switches, and Controllers BUY NOW
Speaker: Michael Goff, Mystery Mansion Escape
Saturday 2:00pm-3:00pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Are you yearning to infuse your interactive entertainment projects with cutting-edge technology, but find yourself navigating a labyrinth of confusion when it comes to choosing the right components? Fear not! In this insightful seminar, we’re diving deep into the realm of entry-level tech, focusing specifically on sensors, switches, and controllers.

What’s Next? Exploring Interactive Entertainment Trends and What Makes Them “HOT” BUY NOW
Speaker: Luke Almond, Candid Escapes
Saturday 3:15pm-4:15pm
Room: 127
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
What if there was a crystal ball that could predict “What’s Next”? Well, that wouldn’t be as fun as leaving it up to an industry of problem solvers, now would it? Luke is ready to take you on the exhilarating journey through the dynamic world of interactive entertainment, dissecting the current trends and examining their viability, appeal, and future prospects!

Starting with established and proven models in business entertainment, from the immersive realms of escape rooms to the exhilarating experience of ax throwing to the gripping narratives of murder mysteries, Luke will explore what makes these models robust, and why they continue to captivate audiences.

The next stop: Sensational concepts, where we delve into the rise of selfie museums. Popping up rapidly, these museums stormed the entertainment scene. But are they mere fads, or have they carved a lasting niche in the industry?

Then it’s time to strap in to enter the realm of VR booths and simulations, a pinnacle of immersive experiences. With high initial costs, are these immersive encounters feasible options for small businesses seeking to make an impact in the interactive entertainment market?

Before fast forwarding we are going to hit the rewind and take an explosive dive into the resurgence of game shows. From their reemergence in 2019, these setups have proliferated. What’s the magnetism behind these experiences, and what does it take nowadays to run a successful game show?

Last stop? Wrap up and open the floor for a captivating Q&A session.

If you’re ready, Luke is prepared to unravel the allure behind various entertainment models, from established concepts to emerging ideas, and offer an exclusive look into the ‘whats’ and ‘hows’ behind the hottest interactive entertainment trends!

All seminars and event payments are final at the time of purchase. Seminars and events are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Attendees must be at least 10 years old. Kids between 10-15 years old need to have a copy of their birth certificate. Kids 16 and older need a driver’s license or a government issued id. A valid photo id for every attendee is required for entry. All seminars and events are subject to change.

TransWorld’s Holiday Lighting Installer Series

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Already registered and want to add additional attendees? Log in here

You must register for the show before you can register to attend any seminars or events.

Package Price: $395** | BUY NOW

Friday & Saturday, March 8th-9th, 2024

TransWorld’s Christmas Show has a seminar track that will not only teach you about professional-level light installation, you’ll also learn about the various lighting products available, where to source them, how to successfully build/finance/run your lighting company, how to market your services and much, much more.

Even better, you don’t have to join a third-party organization or pay additional fees (beyond the price of the actual seminars)! This is pure education, provided by seasoned professionals and enhanced with peer networking to give you all the tools you need to succeed! And better still, if you find that you don’t need to take every class, you don’t have to! Classes can be taken individually (find them on the Christmas Seminars page)!

The 2-Day Seminar Track* includes the Flamingo Bowl After Party, featuring:

• Open bar with domestic draft beer, wine and well drinks for two hours
• Pizza, salad, quesadillas, chicken tenders, and meatballs
• Bowling!
• This party is included in the $395**

This package saves you over $200 vs. registering for each seminar individually!

*Friday & Saturday. Seminars subject to change; please check TransWorldChristmasShow.com for the most current information available at any given time.

**Early Bird Price:

• Installers Seminar Series: $395; after February 22nd: $435
• A La Carte Flamingo Bowl After Party: $75; after February 22nd

Welcome to Transworld 2024!
Speaker: Multiple Speakers
Friday: March 8th
Time: 9:30am-9:55am
Room: 262

Bright Horizons: Scaling Your Light Business Fearlessly
Speakers: Josh Trees, WeHangChristmasLights.com; David Felt, Russel Williams
Friday: March 8th
Time: 10:00am-11:00am
Room: 262
With 17 years in the light installation business, David Felt will discuss how to go from an owner/operator to running several crews, as well as several locations. David will cover branding, marketing strategies, efficiencies with installations and removals, as well as a way to scale up your business to increase revenue and building long term equity into your business. This class is a great opportunity to take things away from a business that services over 4500 holiday light installations each year and is one of the largest light installation businesses in the country. Come hear the many tips and tricks used for efficiencies to help take your business to the next level. If you want to grow your lighting business this is a must attend class!

Elevate Your Holiday Decor Offerings with Next Level LED Tree Wrapping
Speaker: John Alban, Decor IQ
Friday: March 8th
Time: 10:00am-11:00am
Room: 260
Join us for a special presentation by John Alban, the visionary owner of Decor IQ, where he’ll share easy and exciting ways to take your holiday lighting offerings to the next level. From basic to brilliant, John will guide you through simple tips and creative ideas to make LED tree wrapping part of your business! Don’t miss this chance to add a touch of magic to your holiday season.

Work Safe and Profit More on Sloped Roofs
Speaker: Flent Ballantyne, Ballantyne Gear
Friday: March 8th
Time: 11:15am-12:15pm
Room: 262

Crafting Success: Winning Strategies for Commercial Christmas Proposals and RFQs
Speaker: Stacey Jordan, Decor IQ
Friday: March 8th
Time: 11:15am-12:15pm
Room: 260
Join us for an illuminating session on creating winning commercial proposals and mastering the art of navigating Request for Proposals (RFQs). Led by Stacey Jordan, VP of Sales at Envirolume & Decor IQ, boasting 20 years of industry experience, this session unveils the six essential strategies to triumph in the competitive world of commercial Christmas RFQs. From resetting your mood to being obsessed with detail, Stacey will guide you through each step, offering invaluable insights on defining the request, understanding your client, refining your process, and creating the right solution. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your proposal skills and elevate your success in the commercial Christmas market!

Hiring for Glow: A Guide to Recruiting, Managing, and Retaining Seasonal Talents
Speaker: David Felt, Russel Williams
Friday: March 8th
Time: 1:45pm-2:45pm
Room: 260
How to recruit, hire and keep good seasonal employees as well as creating the best company culture to retain year-round employees. David Felt, owner of Russel Williams Home Services and Tuff Clips, will discuss how they have grown to over 130 employees and what they have done to hire and retain top tier staff to enable them to run over 40 crews of installers in several cities across the US. This class will take a deep dive into the hiring process for seasonal employees as well as year-round employees, how to retain these valued team members, and how to build a positive work culture. This is an opportunity to learn how to exponentially expand your market and business, which requires employees. From hiring your first employee to the businesses that manage multiple crews, there will be a lot of information to help your business become one that has a high employee retention rate and great company culture.

What It REALLY Looks Like to Work ON Your Business and Not Just IN It
Speaker: Brett Gilliland, Elite Entrepreneurs
Friday: March 8th
Time: 1:45pm-2:45pm
Room: 262
If trying to keep up with your growing business is leaving you feeling exhausted or uncertain and you would much rather feel energized and unstoppable, then this session is for you! Brett Gilliland from Elite Entrepreneurs will share practical ways that any busy and overwhelmed business owner can use to start to break out of the day-to-day chaos of running a business in order to intentionally build a new and exciting future.

Illuminating Success: Mastering the Art of Permanent Lighting Installation
Speaker: Nick Johnson, Glimpses of Light
Friday: March 8th
Time: 3:00pm-4:00pm
Room: 262

H.O.W. to Start Marketing & Selling Commercial Christmas: Unveiling 5 Expert Tips
Speakers: Stacey Jordan, Decor IQ; Luke Jensen, Holiday Designs
Friday: March 8th
Time: 3:00pm-5:00pm
Room: 260
Embark on a journey of insights with our speakers, Luke Jensen, Owner of Holiday Designs, and Stacey Jordan, VP of Sales at Envirolume & Decor IQ. In this engaging session, these industry leaders will share their combined expertise in the art of commercial Christmas marketing and sales. Learn the H.O.W. (Harness, Optimize, Win) approach as they reveal 5 essential tips to kickstart and elevate your ventures in marketing and selling during the festive season. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just entering the field, join us to unlock the secrets that will set you on the path to success in the commercial Christmas market.

The Art of Animation: The Art of Mastering Dynamic RGB/RGBWW
Speaker: Erik Terkelsen, Holidynamics
Friday: March 8th
Time: 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 262

Radiant Celebrations: Mastering Event Lighting for Weddings & Beyond
Speakers: Kelle McCarty & Eryn McCarty, The SociaLights Team
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 9:00am-10:00am
Room: 260
Learn how to leverage your Christmas light knowledge into year-round weddings and events. In this class, you’ll learn best practices for finding new business, quoting potential projects, and executing on them successfully. We’ll also touch on the importance of leveraging previous projects into new business.

Shining Success Part 1: Navigating Commercial Installations with Expertise
Speaker: Luke Jensen, Jensen Holiday Designs; Josh Trees, WeHangChristmasLights.com
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 9:00am-11:00am
Room: 262
In this 2-hour course we will walk through the basics of installing commercial décor such as panel trees, pole mount décor, 3D displays, wreaths, garland and more. We will also review common installation tools, tips, and tricks. The first hour will be lecture style. The second hour will be hands-on experience.

The Art of Landscape / Architectural Lighting and How to Paint a Lighting Portrait
Speaker: Nate Mullen, Trade Secrets of Lighting
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 10:15am-11:15am
Room: 260
This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of lighting and will start you down the road of how to comprehensively design a great lighting design/lighting portrait. How well a project can be lit is not limited to the quantity of light fixtures. A proper lighting job takes what it takes. We will cover the key principles on how to create depth and visual destination to fully have usable space on the property. Without lighting there is no space being created, which means your clients can not enjoy their outdoor living area. We will take 10 minutes on proper install. Q and A at the end.

Hands-On Workshop Part 2: Diving Deeper into Commercial Installations
Speakers: Luke Jensen, Holiday Designs; Josh Trees, WeHangChristmasLights.com
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 11:15am-1:15pm
Room: 262
In the second part of this series, we will get hands-on and fully assemble, fluff, and breakdown a 14 ft. tree. We will review the tools needed, best practices, safety, making the tree “come to life”, proper breakdown, and storage techniques. This is an interactive class.

Projection Perfection: Crafting Mind-Blowing Effects with Projection Mapping
Speaker: Jorden Nash, Nash Creative, LLC
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 11:30am-12:30pm
Room: 260
Projection mapping is an incredible technology that allows you to transform any surface into a dynamic canvas for storytelling. This cutting-edge tech involves the use of projectors to create unbelievable, moving, and interactive elements as you’ve never seen them before. This course will cover projection and playback technology, a live demonstration of creating a projection map, and a walk-through of animated content creation using Adobe After Effects. Time permitting, we will also touch on how AI can help with the content creation process. Join us to learn how to create an immersive and engaging experience that will captivate and inspire your audience!

Brilliance Beyond Lights: Mastering Marketing and Branding for Your Business
Speakers: Josh Trees, WeHangChristmasLights.com; Nicole Ginsburg, Frightmare Farms Haunted Screampark & Aster Farmstead
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm
Room: 262

Uncover the secrets to making your business shine brighter than the festive lights themselves! In this dynamic seminar series, we’ll delve into the art of marketing and branding specifically tailored for YOU. From creating a magnetic brand identity to crafting compelling marketing strategies that illuminate your business, this series is designed to empower you with the tools to stand out. Josh and Nicole will cover:

• Glow Up Your Brand Identity: Explore the essentials of creating a brand that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impression.
• Strategies for Festive Marketing: Uncover proven marketing tactics to boost your visibility and attract customers.
• Social Media Enchantment: Dive into the world of social media and learn how to leverage platforms to create buzz and engagement that lasts all year round.
• Holiday Hustle: Crafting Compelling Promotions: Discover the art of crafting irresistible promotions that drive sales and create customer loyalty.
• Reviews and Referrals: Building a Glowing Reputation: Learn how to cultivate positive reviews and leverage customer referrals to enhance your business reputation.

Join us for this illuminating seminar and transform your business into a shining success!

Drive-Through Christmas Shows for the Installer
Speaker: Tom BetGeorge, Magical Light Shows
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm
Room: 260
Want to expand your horizons with drive-through experiences? This class will go over logistics, costs, and the process for setting up a drive through display. This overview will give you tools, data, and lessons from experience from building 20 drive through shows across the country!

Town Hall
Speaker: Multiple Speakers
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 3:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 262

Holiday Installers Lighting Party at the Flamingo Bowl
Saturday: March 9th
Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm
1117 Washington Ave, just up the street from America’s Center

Daily Events

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WRISTBANDS FOR SEMINARS & EVENTS CAN BE PICKED UP AT THE SEMINARS & EVENTS REGISTRATION COUNTER DURING THE SHOW

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2024

TransWorld’s Networking Night Out! | $75 Person Pre-Show | $95 Onsite | BUY NOW
7:30 pm-11:00 pm
Holiday Inn – Ballroom
This is a networking event that you don’t want to miss! Networking table topics will cover all industries (Halloween, Christmas, Interactive Entertainment and more)! Join the TransWorld Advisory Boards and other attraction owners as TransWorld hosts a night full of networking with relaxed and productive roundtables. This is not your normal party – this party was created with your needs as an attraction owner in mind!  This event is designed to expose you to individuals in all phases of business to make connections and share information!

Please note food will only be served from 7:30pm-9:30pm

Here’s how it will work: Each table will have a set of topics (yes, you will change throughout the night); you freely join a topic table that interests you and your business, ask questions, get answers and build business relationships with operators just like you!

Ticket Includes :

• Hamburger sliders
• Cheeseburger sliders
• Grilled chicken sliders
• House-made chips with dip
• Mozzarella sticks
• There will also be a Cash Bar all evening long!

Please note food will only be served from 7:30pm-9:30pm

Networking table topics will cover all industries (Halloween, Haunt, Christmas, Interactive Entertainment and more!*) and will include (but not be limited to) the following topics:

• Marketing
• Getting Started in the Industry
• Day to Day Business
• Scenic and lighting design
• Tech Talk
• Customer Service
• Booking Software and Ticketing
• Corporate and Special Events
• Puzzle & Game Design
• Ask The Expert
• Immersive Environments
• Expansion
• Management and Employees
• Buying and Selling
• Partnerships and Collaborations
• Open Conversation

*Each table will have 1-3 topic-specific facilitators who will keep the conversation focused.

Seating is extremely limited so register ASAP! Sponsored by TicketSpice

THURSDAY, MARCH 7th

Makeup Demonstrations
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Trade Show Floor, Makeup Demo Stage
Conducted by the experts in the industry and located right on the show floor on the Makeup Demo Stage located at the front of the 1300 aisle! FREE to all who attend with limited seating available. Don’t miss out on all the latest special effects and makeup techniques that will make your haunt and your actors really scary and realistic to your customers. Sponsored Granite Insurance

Agritainment Networking Mixer | FREE to All Attendees
5:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Marriott- Statler Room (Behind the main bar)
Cash Bar
Mix, mingle & network with your fellow agritainment buyers, owners and vendors while enjoying tasty beverages and light appetizers which include: Toasted beef ravioli, Meatballs with marinara, Cheddar bacon tots and Spinach artichoke poppers! Sponsored by Corn Maize Group, S4 Lights, NAFDMA & Boscoyo Studio

Christmas Show Networking Mixer | FREE to All Attendees
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Holiday Inn- Ballroom
Cash Bar
Meet and mingle with other Christmas Show buyers, owners, and vendors while enjoying some holiday “spirits”! Appetizers will be mozzarella sticks, unbreaded chicken wings and pigs in a blanket. A cash bar will be provided.

Behind-the-Scenes Tour of The Darkness | GET TICKETS
7:00 pm-9:00 pm
The Darkness Haunted Attraction
Please note that this is an independent event and tickets are sold by the haunt tours’ producers.

City Museum Party | $60 Person Pre-Show | $75 On Site | BUY NOW
7:30 pm-11:30 pm
City Museum, 750 N 16th St.

The always popular City Museum party is back and is completely private! Come have fun with friends and fellow attendees, we will have the entire museum all to ourselves! Your ticket includes your choice of a hotdog, large hot pretzel, large popcorn, nachos, or a slice of pizza (if you purchased tickets on or before February 29th). The pretzel and hot dog can be redeemed at Guard Dogs on the 2nd floor, the popcorn can be redeemed at Baby Elephant on the 3rd floor, the nachos can be redeemed at Beatnik Bob’s on the 3rd floor and the pizza slice can be redeemed at Lizard Lounge on the mezzanine level. We will have complimentary soda for all guests.

NEW for 2024: The Science of Guinness World Records exhibit in Architecture Hall.

DJ Psych Jam from Basement of the Dead playing music on the 3rd floor in front of the castle between 7:30 pm-11:30pm

Cash bars will be available in the following locations from 7:30pm-11pm:

• The Cabin Inn – Full Bar (1st Floor)
• Lizard Lounge Bar -beer, wine & soda (mezzanine level)
• Baby Elephant – canned cocktails, beer (3rd Floor)
• Architectural Hall – Cowboy Bar, Full Bar (3rd Floor)
• Beatnik Bob’s – Full Bar (3rd Floor)
• Castle Bar –  Alcohol, no soda (3rd Floor near DJ)
• Overflow Cafe Bar on the 4th floor (beer, frozen drinks and coffee)
• The FearWorm drink will be available at: Beatnik Bob’s, Cabin Inn and the Cowboy Bar in Arch Hall B
• Bar locations subject to change.

• City Museum reserves the right to shut down any bars early or stay open later depending on the flow of business
• Last call is 30 minutes prior to the end of the event.
• Food and snacks available for purchase
• Lockers available for $8 on the 1st Floor and 3rd Floor to store any personal items
• There will be first-come, first-served coat racks in front of Cabin Inn
• FREE parking in the main lot for up to 80 cars

Sponsored by FearWorm Hauntvertising & TicketLeap

FRIDAY, MARCH 8th

The Haunted Attraction Association State of the Industry Seminar | FREE
10:00am-11:00am
America’s Center – Location Room 231
Join the Haunted Attraction Association (HAA) Board of Directors as they quickly review 2023 and discuss 2024 concerns and insights with audience members.  This is a must-attend seminar – from small to large, indoor to farms/trails, hear what other haunters are doing across the U.S. and abroad, from marketing to safety to operational tips. It’s always packed with content, information and people, so get in line early and do some networking.  Whether you’re new to haunting, or a veteran DO NOT miss this seminar to plan for your future. This seminar qualifies for one credit toward C.H.A.O.S. certification.

Makeup Demonstrations
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Trade Show Floor, Makeup Demo Stage
Conducted by the experts in the industry and located right on the show floor on the Makeup Demo Stage located at the front of the 1300 aisle! FREE to all who attend with limited seating available. Don’t miss out on all the latest special effects and makeup techniques that will make your haunt and your actors really scary and realistic to your customers. Sponsored Granite Insurance

The Haunted Attraction Association Live Auction | FREE to all Attendees | Cash Bar
5:15 pm – 6:30 pm (Doors Open @ 4:30 pm)
Auction starts @ 5:15 pm
America’s Center – Location  Room 231
The Haunted Attraction Association’s (HAA) exciting and fast-paced live auction fundraiser begins just before the closing of the show floor. Grab a drink (cash bar) with friends, support vendor members of the HAA, and bid on some of the industry’s finest props, animatronics, and service, usually at below ticket prices.  Plus, 100% of all funds raised benefit HAA members & operations! Don’t miss out on the deals or the fun at this exciting, fast paced, filled-room event!

Interactive Entertainment Mixer | FREE to ALL Attendees
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
BLT’s, 626 N 6th St.,  just a couple of blocks from the America’s Center
Meet other owners and operators from around the world and get a chance to mingle at our Interactive Entertainment Mixer. Appetizers and a cash bar will be provided. Buyers and exhibitors will get an opportunity to relax, kick back and catch up with industry leaders and operators of all levels. We look forward to seeing you there. We will be serving the following: Nacho bar with chips, queso, ground beef, sautéed veggies, salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream. There will be a cash bar.

Lemp Brewery Live Show | GET TICKETS
7:00 pm-9:00 pm
Lemp Brewery Haunted Attraction
Please note that this is an independent event and tickets are sold by the haunt tours’ producers.

Interactive Entertainment Game: Dusk ’til Dawn, A Zombie Showdown Challenge | $45 Pre-show | $60 On Sit | BUY NOW
8:00pm- 10:00pm
America Center, Room 223

Prepare for the ultimate adrenaline-fueled rush with ‘Dusk Till Dawn: Zombie Showdown Challenge’! As daylight dwindles, teams race against time, fortifying defenses amidst lurking danger of the undead onslaught!

But as night descends, hold onto your wits! As ravenous zombies emerge from the darkness, will you be able to evade capture, safeguard your supplies, and navigate through the night?

Will your team conquer the darkness, emerging victorious with the sunrise, or fall victim to the relentless horde? Brace yourself for a pulse-pounding test of strategy and teamwork!” Sponsored By BRUSHFIRE

TransWorld’s Christmas Show presents: VIVA LAS CHRISTMAS!  | Pre Show $60 | Onsite $75 | BUY NOW
8:30 pm – 12:00 am
Holiday Inn Ballroom

TransWorld’s Christmas Show Party has become an iconic industry tradition and this year is no exception. This isn’t your ordinary holiday celebration—oh no! It’s an extravaganza where the vibrant energy of Las Vegas collides with the enchantment of Christmas.

Picture this: The iconic glitz and glamor of Vegas converge with the joyous cheer of Christmas, creating an electrifying atmosphere that’s nothing short of spectacular! As you enter the ballroom be prepared to be immersed in a sea of shimmering lights, adorned with glittering decorations that rival the dazzling Vegas strip!

The Viva Las Christmas Party is sure to be a show-stopper so don’t gamble with fate and book your ticket before it’s too late!

Menu:

• Hamburger sliders
• Cheeseburger sliders
• Grilled chicken sliders
• House-made chips with dip
• Mozzarella sticks
• Cookies & brownies
• Cash bar

Sponsored by TicketSpice & Boscoyo Studio

SATURDAY, MARCH 9th

The TransWorld Halloween Buyer Board Breakfast | $75 Pre-Show | $90 On Site | BUY NOW
8:30am-10:00am
America Center, Room 241
Have you ever wished you could pick the brains of the owners of some of the country’s largest, most successful haunted houses?

Do you wonder about their successes, their failures and the knowledge they have to share that could benefit your own attraction?

Then take advantage of this unique opportunity to have breakfast with the owners of some of the USA’s top haunted attractions and get a solid peek “behind the curtain”, not in a they-talk-you-listen situation, but in a conversational setting where you are welcome and encouraged to ask questions! These owners will share with you what has (and has not) been successful for them, as well as the many situations they have had to deal with during their countless Halloween seasons. We encourage you to come prepared with questions to get the most out of this amazing opportunity!

This event brings you face-to-face with the entire Halloween & Attractions Show Buyers Board, with owners/representatives from:

• 13th Gate Haunted House
• Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride
• Erebus Haunted Attraction
• Factory of Terror
• Fright Kingdom
• Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses
• Netherworld Haunted House
• Rise Haunted House
• Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group
• Universal Orlando
• Woods of Terror

…from A to Z, if you have any questions, this is the place to seek those answers. Learn the tricks of the trade, whether you are just starting out or have been in the Halloween industry for years, what better way to kick off Saturday morning than breakfast and this educational and networking bonanza?

Makeup Demonstrations
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Trade Show Floor, Makeup Demo Stage
Conducted by the experts in the industry and located right on the show floor on the Makeup Demo Stage located at the front of the 1300 aisle! FREE to all who attend with limited seating available. Don’t miss out on all the latest in special effects and makeup techniques that will make your haunt and your actors really scary and realistic to your customers. Sponsored Granite Insurance

Transworld’s Flamingo Bowl After Party | Pre – Show $75 | Onsite $90 | BUY NOW
5:30 pm- 7:30 pm
Flamingo Bowl, 1117 Washington Ave (Just up the street from the America’s Center)
This party is  included if you bought the Professional Holiday Lighting Education Series . For those wishing to just attend the party you are welcome to join this event.

• Open bar featuring domestic draft beer, wine and well drinks for two hours
• Pizza, salad, quesadillas, chicken tenders and meatballs
• Bowling!

Haunted Attraction Association OSCARES Awards Banquet | FREE

5:00 pm – 7:30 pm (Doors open at 5:00 pm, Event begins at 5:40 pm)
America’s Center – Location Room 241
The most celebrated awards event of our industry with light food and a cash bar! Back and better than ever, the all new format and feel of OSCARES is being raved by all!  HAA has added new awards for mid and small tier attractions nominated by HAA members.   All HAA members get a free drink and priority seating (stop by the HAA booth for your coupon *prior* to the event).  This event rolls out the black carpet and recognizes attraction owners, vendors, and others who have excelled in our industry…nominated by YOU. Presented by The Haunted Attraction Association, these awards are the highest achievement in the Halloween and Haunted Attraction industry, so join this FREE event with light food and a cash bar, as we celebrate some of the best in the industry!

The Darkness Live Show | GET TICKETS
7:00 pm-9:00 pm
The Darkness Haunted Attraction
Please note that this is an independent event and tickets are sold by the haunt tours’ producers.

TransWorld’s Interactive Entertainment Show presents:
All Bets Are Off in the Wild West: A Night of Intrigue  | $65 Pre Show | $80 Onsite | BUY NOW
7:00pm – 9:30pm
Hotel St. Louis Ballroom

It is your first day in this town called Intrigue, and everything is bustling. People are trading, working, finding their way. But you? You are a member of a bandit crew looking to make this a part of your territory and score the most cash. Just be wary of all the things that can go wrong, and keep your wits about you- the winning team will be the most cunning, tricky, and ready to steal. There is some law around these parts, but, in the end, maybe if you can win the local election, you will be the Sheriff, and it will be your town after all!

A Wild, Wild West event with puzzles, plotting, thieving, and plenty of scoundrels racing to get their team on top.

Doors open at 7:00pm. Players are encouraged to come in costume and be ready to play by 7:20pm. The game will last about 90 minutes.  After the game is over you will have time  to take photos, catch up with your friends, and talk about how you survived the frontier life!

Menu:

• Build your own pulled pork sandwiches
• Coleslaw
• Chile Con Carne
• Baked Potato Bar
• Chef’s Selection of Season Dessert
• Cookies & Brownies
• Cash Bar

Sponsored by TicketSpice

TransWorld Halloween Party: Dia de los Muertos – Party with the Dead! $45 Pre-show | $60 On Site | BUY NOW
8:00 pm – 12:00 am
America’s Center – Ballroom

As TransWorld’s Halloween & Attractions Show winds down join us for a live DJ (DJ Psych Jam from Basement of the Dead), dancing, drinks (cash bar), appetizers (beef skewers, chicken quesadillas, vegetable spring rolls, and cheddar bacon tater tots), and more (food served from 8:00pm-10:00pm)! This is your chance to party with haunters from around the world and celebrate the end of another successful show. Costumes and creative attire ARE ALLOWED and encouraged (but not required) as you party the night away at the final celebration of the 2024 Halloween & Attractions Show! Tickets are limited, and when they’re gone… they’re gone! You won’t want to miss this ultimate Halloween party as it only happens once a year! Sponsored by TicketSpice, Froggy’s Fog & Strega Moon Productions

All seminars and event payments are final at the time of purchase. Seminars and events are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Attendees must be at least 10 years old. Kids between 10-15 years old need to have a copy of their birth certificate. Kids 16 and older need a driver’s license or a government issued id. A valid photo id for every attendee is required for entry. All seminars and events are subject to change.

Halloween Seminars

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You must register for the show before you can register to attend any seminars or events.
After you register for the show you can use your last name and zip code or your registration bar code to make seminar/event purchases.

THURSDAY, MARCH 7TH

C.H.A.O.S Fire & Safety Seminar BUY NOW
Speakers: Haunted Attraction Association
Thursday  9:30am- 1:30pm
Room: 121
$20/HAA Members
$75/Non HAA Members
The Certified Haunted Attraction Operator Safety (C.H.A.O.S.) Program is the Haunted Attraction Association (HAA)’s safety certification course that is recommended to anyone running a haunted attraction.  This 4 hour Fire & Safety seminar is mandatory for certification.  Safety, liability concerns, fire marshal issues, and proper methods of building a safe event are keys to this seminar.  The seminar also covers tragedies that have affected the rules and laws that now regulate haunted house/entertainment/dark attractions today.

Individuals must complete eight hours in order to receive full CHAOS certification, so four additional hours/credits/seminars are required. Once completed, you will receive a CHAOS Course Completion Certificate to show your fire marshal, insurance carrier, and local authorities to show your desire to run a safe haunted attraction. Each person must attend the 8 hours individually and hour credits cannot be shared or combined between staff from the same attraction/different individuals.

To be eligible for the HAA Top Haunts program,  at least one staff member must have current CHAOS certification.  Several insurance companies in our industry now offer discounts for owners/operators with up-to-date CHAOS certification. Effective March 2020, all CHAOS certificates are valid and current for three years. All previously issued CHAOS certificates will expire after March of 2023.  Your dedication and certification in the C.H.A.O.S. Program helps your event, and our industry, strive to be safe, proactive and responsible. C.H.A.O.S. (this seminar goes towards 4 hours of your C.H.A.O.S. Safety Certification)

How to Greatly Improve Your Marketing (Without Increasing Your Budget) BUY NOW
Speaker: Brad Weinstein, Newbridge
Thursday  11:15am- 12:15pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Want to learn how to get more bang for your buck and dramatically improve your marketing for 2024? This fast-paced seminar is designed to help people of all experience levels (newbies to industry veterans) and will cover a spectrum of ways you can take your marketing to the next level (that don’t involve spending more money). With over a decade of experience that includes top attractions and brands (such as Disney World and Google) Brad Weinstein will share valuable insights and takeaways with you that will make the small cost of this seminar more than pay for itself! Topics covered in this seminar include:

• Why your marketing is probably not as effective as it should be (and how to fix it).
• Critical and costly mistakes you should avoid.
• Strategic tweaks you can make to your ads and messaging to increase success (small tweaks can make a big difference).
• Why your marketing might be the reason customers are leaving bad reviews (and how to fix it).
• How to make your brand stronger, more effective, and better positioned for success.
• Learn how to test if your ads work BEFORE you spend money running them.
• And more!
• Speaker Bio: Brad’s experience includes The Walt Disney Company, Elitch Gardens Theme Park, Google, professional haunted attractions, and world class advertising agencies in NYC.

Avoid The Quicksand! Get on the Fast Track to Haunt Success by Avoiding Dangerous Mistakes BUY NOW
Speaker: Scott Simmons, ScareHouse
Thursday  12:30pm- 1:30pm
Room:123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Mistakes were made, lessons were learned. Whether it’s having the right idea at the wrong time or taking a risk that failed to deliver expected rewards, all small business owners have taken a wrong step from time to time… but sometimes what looks like a so-called “mistake” is actually an opportunity to improve every element of your haunted attraction planning, promotion, and operation. Everyone loves to talk about their successes, but we often learn more from the so-called “mistakes” or steps taken too soon or too late. Veteran haunted attraction co-owner and Creative Director Scott Simmons reveals the setbacks that led to successes, while also warning you of the pitfalls that could cripple haunters of any scale. Plus, ten bonus mistakes to avoid if you’re just starting out in the haunted attraction industry!

Howling Wind and Crashing Thunder: The Tools and Techniques For Creating Amazing Haunt Audio BUY NOW
Speaker: Jake Farmer, Dark Hour Haunted House
Thursday  1:45pm – 2:45pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
The audio in your haunted attraction shouldn’t be left until the last minute.  Be thinking about audio during your design phase!  Don’t even know where to start?  Have no fear!  This back-to-basics class from industry veteran Jake Farmer will get you familiar with everything you need to know so you can implement audio into your haunted attraction. We’ll talk about simple design theory and also go over various options & solutions for those who are dipping their toes into the realm of haunt tech for the first time or are working with a limited budget.  Audio might seem intimidating but it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Engaging, Scaring and Entertaining Your Customers in the Queue Lines: The Character Method BUY NOW
Speaker: Jonathan Seth, Fright Nights at the South Florida Fairgrounds
Thursday  1:45 pm- 2:45 pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
The purpose of this Seminar is to demystify interactive queue line acting, and provide tools for queue line actors of all experience levels to create unique and interesting interactive performances. Creating and performing as characters that are effective in a queue line setting is not always intuitive, and whether as a scare actor or an actor trainer, having tools and specific techniques to connect with the guests is essential to raising your game.

Make Your Guest Experience Legendary! Delivering an Incredible Visitor Experience Every Time BUY NOW
Speaker: Amy Hollaman and Brett Bertolino, Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group
Thursday  1:45 pm-  2:45pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Poor customer service is no joke and it will negatively impact your bottom line! Every interaction a customer has with your staff has the potential to impact their experience positively or negatively. Everything your customer sees, hears, smells, tastes, or touches at your event impacts their experience.  Improving guest satisfaction will lead to increased length of stay, repeat visitation and ultimately increased revenue! In this seminar Brett and Amy will reveal the strategies that have proven successful in delivering an exceptional visitor experience at some of the largest Halloween events from coast to coast.

Safety is Always #1! Best Practices in Safety for Haunted Attractions the Pennsylvania Way! BUY NOW
Speaker: Jim Werner, (Pennhurst  Asylum)  Randy Bates, (The Bates Motel and Haunted Hayride), Jim Schopf (Field of Screams)
Thursday  3:00pm- 4:00pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Safety is no joke, and anyone in the Haunt business understands how many critical steps you need to take to get open, operate, and take good care of your staff and customers. Topics include Fire Safety, Building Codes, Staff Training, Crowd Management, and understanding the types of insurance you need to have in place if disaster strikes! C.H.A.O.S. (this seminar goes towards your C.H.A.O.S. Safety Certification)

Amazing Tool or Dangerous Technology? How You Can Successfully Harness the Power of AI for Your Attraction BUY NOW
Speaker: Teddy Summers, Dark Hour Haunted House
Thursday 3:00pm- 4:00pm
Room: 123
$55 attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
As AI becomes more and more prevalent in the current business landscape, we are met with many questions regarding its use for the haunted attraction industry. In this class, I would like to go over how attractions are currently using AI, what the future holds for its use as a part of our business practices, and how we can avoid misusing such a powerful tool that almost everyone has access to.

Building Epic Scenes and Wow Moments For Outdoor Attractions! BUY NOW
Speaker: Todd Fedyshyn, (Reaaper’s Revenge Haunted Hayride & Attractions), Patrick Barberry, (Legends of the Fog) & Nick Markoff, (Markoff’s Haunted Forest)
Thursday  3:00pm- 4:00pm
Room: 132
$55 attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Building elaborate outdoor scenes that are designed to scare and impress is an art form all its own. Using materials that will last in the weather, properly setting up air and electrical systems that will survive the season and creating good scare spots for actors can be a radically different process than it is for indoor attractions. Join our panel of experts as they discuss these and other challenges for outdoor events and reveal the best methods to solve them.

Covering your Assets: Protecting Your Show, Emergency Action Plans and Safety Checks BUY NOW
Speaker: Haunted Attraction Association
Thursday, March 7th
Time: 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Even the most well-run show is not insulated from sudden emergencies, from sick customers to active threats. Challenges can come out of nowhere, and an attraction with active and practiced emergency action plans and consistent safety checks can help weather any storm you may face. Follow Jim Werner, The Operations Manager of Pennhurst Asylum, as he leverages 22
years of emergency services work to cover the ins and outs of attraction safety, from building an Emergency Action Plan (E.A.P.) that’ll make a fire marshal smile, to inspections, responses, and rehearsals of emergencies. Learn the tools that will easily help you protect your most valuable investment… your business! C.H.A.O.S. (this seminar goes towards your C.H.A.O.S. Safety Certification)

Carve Out Space In Their Heads: Use Chemistry to Make Them Remember You BUY NOW
Speaker: Allen Hopps, Dark Hour Haunted House
Thursday 4:15pm- 5:15pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
This seminar will show you how to make your guests remember your haunt, how you can use psychology and human nature to make sure that your haunt’s sets, story, and characters will find a forever home in the mind of your guests.

Tech Brainstorming! Learn Creative Special Effect Ideas From Our Panel of Experts BUY NOW
Speaker: Moderator, Ben Armstrong (Netherworld Haunted House) Panel: Tyler Fermanich (Nightmare Forge), Max Armstrong (Netherworld Haunted House), Marco D’Andrea (Fear Columbus)
Thursday 4:15pm- 5:15pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Every season the tech aspects of haunted attractions grow even more complex as new special effects and control systems become more popular in our industry. Join our knowledgeable panel as they dive deep into understanding the most effective strategies to master these emerging technologies and get superior results from animatronics lighting, sound, projection, fog and other special effects.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8TH

Non-Dramatic Pneumatics: Easy and Effective Ways to Scare with Air BUY NOW
Speaker: Boston Petit, Dark Hour Haunted House
Friday  11:15am- 12:15pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Together in this seminar we will be taking the stress out of implementing pneumatics inside your attraction. We will be covering practical uses, troubleshooting tips, and be taking a deep insider look into how pneumatics can be used to add dynamic elements into your attraction. If you’ve ever considered pneumatics, come gain the insight and knowledge you need to give you a push to confidently start your pneumatics journey!

Creating Colossal Creatures! Build Massive Props With Inexpensive Materials BUY NOW
Speaker: Ryan Visinguard, Woods of Terror
Friday 11:15am- 12:15pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
To make an impact, sometimes you need to take things to a colossal scale.. like many of the industry leaders, their haunts are adorned with over-scale props, monsters, creatures, and other things that go bump in the night.. this class is going to give you a crash course in colossal creature creation using what you may already have lying around…

Let Ryan take you through the ins and outs of his maddening process when creating colossal creatures for scenes and photo ops using the most rudimentary materials from discarded wood to rotting burlap and broken props, no material is unusable when creating colossal monstrosities.

Guaranteed to get your creative brains oozing on how to use discarded materials to take your prop building to colossal heights.

Foundations of Fear: Opening or Growing an Attraction in Today’s Fast-Paced Business World BUY NOW
Speaker: Spencer Terry, Fear Factory
Friday 11:15am- 12:15pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
The haunted house industry is growing at incredible speed. If you’re thinking of opening an attraction, small or large, join Fear Factory GM/Equity Owner and Haunted Attraction Association President Spencer Terry as he breaks down an accelerated, in-depth and fast-paced seminar to review the nuts and bolts to developing and starting your haunted house business. From growth patterns, to learning moments, to secrets and tools that leveraged great success, he’ll cover many of the things that helped Fear Factory become what it is today and continues to plan ahead for the future. C.H.A.O.S. (this seminar goes towards your C.H.A.O.S. Safety Certification)

Devilish Detailing -Take Your Props and Sets to The Next Level with Fiendish Painting Techniques! BUY NOW
Christopher de Troy, Set Designer, Scenic Artist & Teacher
Friday 12:30pm- 1:30pm
Room: 132
$55/ attendee ( pre-registration)
$65 / attendee ( on-site registration)
Join Christopher in this dynamic, informational and exciting seminar! Learn recipes for faux finishes and washes to achieve outstanding realistic effects. We’ll review the importance of technique and its proper application. Then we will discuss the fine art of layering different mediums and colors. You will leave this seminar feeling invigorated, inspired and informed!

How To Bang Out Terrifying Haunt Makeups FAST! BUY NOW
Speaker: Kyle Vest, Price of Fear
Friday 12:30pm- 1:30pm
Room: 121
$55/ attendee ( pre-registration)
$65 / attendee ( on-site registration)
Are you a Haunt owner or Artist asking these questions:

• Why are the actors in the makeup room this long?
• Why is the makeup budget so high?
• Why am I not getting makeup that is out of this world and commercial-ready?
• What tools should I be using or the setup?

This is the perfect class for you to get all those answers and many others! You will learn the steps to achieve fast and efficient makeup in the attraction’s makeup room and the many ways to set up the makeup room. This class teaches not only makeup artists but also attraction owners, attraction managers, and staff. You will learn and understand the costs of attraction makeup to better manage your budget.This class will cover all aspects of makeup from hand painting to special effects and prosthetics. This is a live demonstration with all styles of makeup!
This class is taught by world-famous Kyle Vest from Season 2 of Skin Wars. He has trained at over 30 different haunted attractions, 3 makeup schools, and 2 colleges.

Super Scares Step By Step BUY NOW
Speaker: Allen Hopps, Dark House Haunted House
Friday 12:30pm- 1:30pm
Room:123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Break down the haunted attraction and let’s make tweaks that will make your show scarier: From simple scares to psychological terror, we will talk about things that will instill terror and dread in your guests! Including 15 scares that you can place right into your show regardless of theme, you will find gems in this class that will make this next season awesome!

Food, Drinks, Gift Shops and Photo Sales: Rack Up Extra Profits With Non-Traditional Revenue Streams! BUY NOW
Speaker: Billy Messina & Alex Burgraff (Netherworld Haunted House), John Eslich (Factory Of Terror/Haunted Schoolhouse and Lab), Stephen Kristof (Realm of Terror)
Friday, 1:45pm-2:45pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Event producers are increasingly looking for new revenue streams to raise additional funds and improve the guest experience. Many attractions rely on outside vendors to handle these but some owners are taking them in house and seeing excellent profits. Our panel will discuss the rewards and pitfalls of getting in deep with food, alcohol, gift shops and photo sales, and touch on other revenue streams such as escape and carnival games to pump up your bottom line!

Attracting and Managing Massive Crowds at Your Attraction BUY NOW
Speaker: Michael Edwards & Bart Butler, Terror in the Corn
Friday 1:45 pm-2:45 pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Explore the secrets behind the remarkable surge in attendance at Terror in the Corn in this seminar. Delve into the journey of Bart Butler and Michael Edwards, who witnessed their customer base skyrocket from 20k to 50k in just 1 year. Gain insights into their expertise as they unravel the strategies employed to navigate this substantial increase, addressing crucial aspects such as staffing, operations, and throughput. Discover the meticulous best practices implemented to prioritize both customer and staff safety, ensuring an exceptional show experience while minimizing wait times. Join us to unlock the keys to successfully handling and optimizing large crowds for your attraction. C.H.A.O.S. (this seminar goes towards your C.H.A.O.S. Safety Certification)

Cheap Scares That Won’t Frighten Your Wallet! BUY NOW
Speaker: John Denley,  Boneyard Productions International
Friday  1:45pm- 2:45pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
When people enter you haunt, the first question is always…”Is It Scary?” I have visited “Mega-Budget” shows all over the world and many FAIL on the scare factor, I’ll tell you why! I’ll show you how to turn your haunt into a “Scream Machine”!! In this face paced and “in your face” seminar, you will learn:

• The 13 Greatest Scares in the Haunting Industry and many bonus never scares never seen before !
• How to properly design your show to achieve maximum Fight Level !
• What “really” scares people and the psychology behind it !
• How to turn your actors into a “Terror Team” and get the most from your staff !
• Why certain scares fail and should be avoided !
• How to generate extra income from your haunt ! I can show you how to make huge profit gains without increasing your payroll !
• The industry has changed! I’ll show you how to stay ahead of the curve!
• How to “out-haunt” your competition !

Let me put over 30 years of Haunting experience to work for you.! You can’t afford to miss this class!

Make a Copy of Anything! Silicone Mold Making 101 BUY NOW
Speaker: Alex Lohmann, When Hinges Creak
Friday 3:00pm- 4:00pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
An introduction to silicone molds. In this class Alex Lohmann will demonstrate how useful silicone molds are to use and how simple they can be to make. He will be covering some of the most common mold types, the types of silicones used, how to calculate cost and, most importantly, will show you how to get started making molds of your own.

Visions Of Terror: Pre-Visualization Techniques for Haunted Attraction Design
Speaker: Jon Cook, Plague Productions BUY NOW
Friday 3:00pm-4:00pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Discover the transformative potential of pre-visualization techniques in project design with Plague Productions. Gain valuable insights as they guide you through a comprehensive exploration of techniques such as layouts, concept art, and 3D modeling. Learn to seamlessly integrate these methods into your creative process, empowering you to organize and effectively communicate a strategic roadmap for your projects. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and elevate your project design capabilities with the expertise of Plague Productions.

Crush Your Marketing with Social Media BUY NOW
Speaker: Nicole Ginsburg, Intrigue & Co./Frightmare Farms Haunted Screampark/Aster Farmstead/Blast CNY
Friday  3:00pm- 4:00pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
It’s no secret, Social Media has become the lifeblood of haunted attractions! The formula for success is ever-changing, with new trends and coveted content captivating your audience’s attention. It’s time to unveil the secrets and harness the magic of staying LOUD in an ever changing world!

Join Nicole Ginsburg in this bewitching seminar as she delves into:

• Social Mediums: Unveiling what’s relevant and what eerie wonders are coming down the pike.
• Spend and Trends: Guiding you on where to channel your limited dollars for maximum impact and how to create a buzz with pocket change.
• Content: Crafting: creative, creepy, and captivating narratives – unlocking the art of it all!
• DIY or Talent: Deciphering when to take the reins yourself and when it’s time to summon professional talents.

Nicole will lead this fast-paced seminar, arming you with the sorcery you need for your haunted attraction’s social media in 2024. Get ready to crush your marketing and enchant your audience!

The 13th Gate Presents: Design Your Costume & Makeup Departments For Success! BUY NOW
Speaker: David Ferrell, Christi Ferrell and Sarah Bess Brown, 13th Gate Haunted House
Friday, 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room 123
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
We have secured your backstage pass to the inner workings of one of the most successful costume and makeup departments in the industry… The 13th Gate!

We have mastered the setup, streamlined the process, and maintained these departments in a way that keeps our operation as one of the best in the country.

This is your chance to gain invaluable insights while getting practical tips from key members of the renowned 13th Gate Team. We will share the strategies that have worked wonders for us and admit to the one strategy that didn’t quite work.

Whether you’re a seasoned haunt veteran or a newcomer looking to elevate your game, this seminar promises to equip you with the tools needed to create the ultimate costume and makeup “machine”. Don’t miss this chance to learn from the best in the industry and set the stage for your own haunting success!

A Mad Scientist’s Guide to AI
Speaker: Todd Van Nurden is a Principal Architect/ Mad Scientist at Microsoft
Friday 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Are you ready to learn how to use the latest advances in language and artificial intelligence to create terrifying and immersive experiences for your guests? Do you think AI is terrifying in and of itself? Do you dare to join the mad scientist Todd Van Nurdne as he reveals his experiments with LLMs and AI and leads an autopsy of this fiendish technology?

In this session, you will:

• Learn what LLMs and AI are, how they work, and why they are revolutionizing the fields of entertainment, education, and storytelling.
• Explore the different applications of LLMs and AI in the haunt industry, such as generating scripts, dialogues, sound effects and graphics for your scenes and characters.
• See live demonstrations of LLMs and AI in action, and witness the amazing results they can produce.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join Todd in his laboratory of horrors, and learn how to unleash the power of LLMs and AI.

Todd Van Nurden is a Principal Architect/ Mad Scientist at Microsoft, where he has been unleashing his creativity and innovation for over 20 years. He is obsessed with natural user interfaces and how they can transform the way humans interact with the computer. He has also been a speaker and instructor at events across the world, imparting his knowledge and vision on topics such as artificial intelligence, mixed reality, and cloud computing. Todd isn’t new to the haunt industry, as he’s been collaborating with Distortions Unlimited in one form or another for the last 10 years, appearing with them in an episode of the Travel Channel’s show “Making Monsters”. When Todd isn’t being a mad scientist working to make nightmares come true, he’s collaborated with the biggest companies in the world and worked with DARPA on the original concepts for the F35 Stealth Fighter. Oh, and his side gig is being a pirate.

Don’t worry, he promises not to harm anyone… or does he? Muahahaha!

Fabricate Ornate Details for Costumes, Props and Sets: Resin Casting and Finishing 101 BUY NOW
Speaker: Alex Lohmann,When Hinges Creak
Friday 4:15pm-5:15pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
In this class Alex will show you how to utilize silicone molds to cast resin pieces and how best to finish them. In this class he will cover some of the most common casting materials, how to minimize waste, how to prepare parts for finishing and the process of priming, painting, aging, distressing and sealing your pieces.

SATURDAY, MARCH 9TH

Elevating Holiday Events: Strategies to Add Value & Create Lasting Memories
Speaker: Brenda Gonzalez & Mollie Gilley, Six Flags
Saturday, 10:15am-11:15am
Room 132
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
This session delves into the art of crafting exceptional holiday experiences that can add value to your current or future events. From seasonal entertainment options to community engagement to immersive experiences. We’ll talk through these key elements and leave you with actionable insights that will help elevate your next holiday event.

Brutal Realism: Props, Set Design, and Scenic Painting Designed to Grab ‘Em By The Throat! Part 1 BUY NOW
Speaker: Brian Demski ,Demski Creations
Saturday, 10:15am- 11:15am
Room: 121
$55/attendee (pre-registration)
$65/attendee (on-site registration)
Dive into the macabre and gory brain of Brian Demski and learn some of his tips and tricks relating to professional painting, including color choice, faux painting, blocking, stenciling, washes and many other techniques for coordinating and developing highly detailed haunted attraction scenes. If you want movie and high-end video game looks in your attraction do not miss this class!

Creating & Training Iconic Monsters BUY NOW
Speakers: Moderator, Ben Armstrong (Netherworld Haunted House), Katie Lane, (Bansheette), Scott “Tater” Lynd, (Froggy’s Fog), & Erika Jones, (Woods of Terror), Andrew Martingello (Midnight Terror Haunted House) 
Saturday March 10:15am- 11:15am
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Customers often spend more time waiting to enter your attraction than they do inside it, so having truly iconic characters to entertain the lines and get the customers excited for the haunt is extremely important. In this seminar our experienced speakers will discuss how to create and train lot monsters, techniques of interaction, use of props, dialogue, costuming ideas, and all the other relevant topics you need to understand when developing your own line actors!

Brutal Realism: Props, Set Design, and Scenic Painting Designed to Grab ‘Em By The Throat! Part 2 BUY NOW
Speaker: Brian Demski ,Demski Creations
Saturday 11:30am-12:30pm
Room:121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Dive into Part 2 and learn the next steps to create nightmarish environments. Prop choices and sources, path design, lighting, sound and all the intricate flourishes that tell a visually disturbing story to your guests will be covered. This class will focus on developing an eye for detail and making the right choices to absolutely distract and immerse customers in shocking reality that will set them up to be terrorized by your actors! 

TikTok for Business: Turning Views Into Profitable Results BUY NOW
Speaker: Jillian DeNamur ( Spooky World Presents, Nightmare New England)Andrea Kras (Wardens Widow – Blood Prison) Taylor McElroy (Mad World Haunted House)
Saturday, March 9th
Time: 11:30am-12:30pm
Room:132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
In this seminar, we dive deep into the world of TikTok and equip you with the skills and strategies necessary to skyrocket your view count and maximize your profits and viewership. Whether you’re an aspiring influencer, a business owner, or simply someone looking to make a splash on TikTok, this class is designed to help you thrive in the competitive landscape of viral videos and endless opportunities from 3 different perspectives within the haunt industry. Our experienced instructors will guide you through a comprehensive curriculum that covers every aspect of TikTok success. We start by understanding the algorithm that powers TikTok’s content distribution, unraveling its mysteries to ensure your videos reach a wider audience. We delve into the psychology behind viral content, teaching you how to create captivating videos that resonate with viewers.

 61 Powerful Ideas To Supercharge Your Haunted Attraction! BUY NOW
Speaker: Ben Armstrong ( Netherworld Haunted House), Allen Hopps (Dark Hour Haunted House), John LaFlamboy (HellsGate Haunted House)
Saturday  11:30am- 12:30pm
Room:123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Need some crazy ideas to get going for 2024? In this fast paced seminar Ben Armstrong from NETHERWORLD Haunted House, Allen Hopps From Dark Hour Haunted House and John LaFlamboy from HellsGate Haunted House will serve up 61 concepts to help you be more successful next season. Scares, marketing ideas, revenue concepts, special effects, costuming tips, set dressing ideas and more are all on the table. If you want a grab bag of wild stuff to get your mind churning, this is it!

Crafting Extreme Sensory Overload With Technology and Design BUY NOW
Speaker: Nick Francis & Marco D’Andrea, Fear Columbus Haunted House
Saturday 12:45pm- 1:45pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Learn how we use audio, lighting, and special effects, along with layout and design, to create an atmosphere that evokes total sensory overload. We will briefly go over our theory on the topic and how to do this in a way that improves the customer experience overall. We will also show some data points from our customer surveys over the years showing drastic improvements in customer satisfaction through this approach. We will then spend the majority of the seminar talking through the technical implementation and providing a roadmap you can take immediate action on, whether you are a small or large attraction.

Producing Your Show With Safety In Mind, the Zombie Army Way BUY NOW
Speaker: John LaFlamboy (Zombie Army Productions/HellsGate Haunted House)
Saturday 12:45pm- 1:45pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Designing a safe attraction, using proper materials, and working with your local inspectors are all great starts to a safe show. However, nothing increases the safety level and success of your show as much as a well trained staff.  Join John, of Zombie Army Productions, as he walks you through his safety preparation and staff training for HellsGate Haunted House: Hiring, Acting Techniques, Actor Guidelines, Evacuation drills, Emergency Action Plans, Fire Extinguisher Training, Zone Leads, Monitor Dispatch, Incident Reports, Nightly Training, and Evaluations. C.H.A.O.S. (this seminar goes towards your C.H.A.O.S. Safety Certification)

Build Unique Sets and Giant Creatures with Advanced Foam Carving Techniques BUY NOW
Speaker: Dan Faupel , Themed Attraction Design
Saturday 12:45pm- 1:45pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
In this class Dan Faupel will share decades of design and fabrication experience to help make your next foam project a success. He will go over design, different types of foam materials, and fabrication techniques. He will cover foam working tools, coating types, textures and techniques. Dan will also examine different recent foam projects, and the steps it took to get to the finished piece. Even advanced foam-working veterans are sure to walk away from this seminar with several new tips and tricks!

Speaker Bio: Dan Faupel is the Creative Director of Erebus Entertainment, and the Owner of Themed Attraction Design in Pontiac MI. He has over 30 years of experience in the haunted attraction and theme park industries. During that time he has worked with well over a hundred haunted attractions, amusement parks, museums, zoos, retail stores, restaurants, and other themed attractions. He is the former Vice President of Creative Visions, Senior Designer of Sally Dark Rides, General Manager of The Darkness, and does theming design work for many well-known attractions. Dan has been featured on USA Today and networks like NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX, Travel Channel, DIY Network, HGTV, and his creations entertain guests all over the world.

Unlock Amazing Acting Potential BUY NOW
Speaker: Allen Hopps, Dark Hour Haunted House
Saturday: 2:00pm-3:00pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
This class is designed to get A-quality reactions out of B-level actors and A-level guest reactions out of C-level actors! Learn processes that you can use to make sure that each actor is reaching their full potential. These techniques and practices will improve your attraction’s acting and scare quality. Common actor problems have solutions, from timing to intensity, they can be rectified! I will not waste your time. Sponsored By Brushfire

How to Build Massive Terrifying Sets for Both Indoor and Outdoor Attractions BUY NOW
Speaker: Todd Fedeshyn, Reapers Revenge Haunted Hayride & Attractions
Saturday  2:00pm- 3:00pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
This seminar will share Reaper’s approach to addressing the challenges of indoor and outdoor scenic design. From conceptualizing your theme as a creative process guide, to exploring budget friendly ideas and planning tips, Reaper’s will provide the secrets to building larger than life sets. Our inspiration is creating a playground for our scare actors, as well as an atmosphere that will entertain our guests night after night. Techniques from props placement, decorations, materials, lighting, sound, and special effects will be discussed in detail. In the end, we will have demonstrated solid concepts to make this process not so scary to your team.

Critical Emerging Trends In The Haunted Attraction Industry BUY NOW
Speaker: Chris Stafford (Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group), TJ Mannarino (Universal Orlando) and Ben Armstrong (Netherworld Haunted House)
Saturday 2:00pm-3:00pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
What a season we just had! Join our panel of experts as they dissect 2023 and look forward to the difficulties and opportunities on the horizon in 2024. Topics include future challenges for the haunted attraction business, new ways to make more money at your venue, advancements in entertainment technologies, financial and cultural changes that may soon be in play, and analysis of what the customer really wants from a haunted experience.

Making the Transition From Scary to Merry BUY NOW
John Eslich (Factory of Terror), David Seneker (Basement of the Dead/Disturbia Haunted House),  Mindy Plaisance, ( RISE Haunted House)
Saturday, March  3:15pm- 4:15pm
Room: 121
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)

Many attractions around the country have been very successful with off-season offerings and chief among these is the celebration of Christmas! Some venues have opted for family-fun-based events and others have kept the terror flowing with extremely scary presentations of the holiday season. Our panel will discuss the hows and whys to pull off a profitable Christmas event, the pros and cons of family friendly vs. scary, and what other revenue opportunities a Christmas event can generate.

Bloodlust: How to Distress Your Costumes with Blood & Gore! BUY NOW
Speaker: Rob O’Brien, ResirWrecked Costumes
Saturday, March 9th
Time: 3:15pm-4:15pm
Room: 123
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
Don’t sacrifice your time & money distressing costumes with blood effects no one can see! Find suggestions for the right blood for the job! We will focus on product testing, design intention, ongoing operational care, and touch ups. This seminar will hemorrhage useful information and end in a bloodbath of a Q&A.

Build a Haunted Horde! Hire, Train and Retain Hundreds of Actors and Staff for Your Haunt BUY NOW
Speaker: Ben Armstrong, Island Chance & Alex Burgraff, Netherworld Haunted House
Saturday 3:15pm-4:15pm
Room: 132
$55/attendee ( pre-registration)
$65/attendee ( on-site registration)
The backbone of any haunted event is a rock solid staff and a ton of incredible actors. But how do you find, hire, train and retain a loyal and talented crew year after year? In this seminar you will learn how Netherworld manages over 400 employees every season to produce one of the most well-known and successful haunted houses in the world.

Halloween Seminars Sponsored by

All seminars and event payments are final at the time of purchase. Seminars and events are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Attendees must be at least 10 years old. Kids between 10-15 years old need to have a copy of their birth certificate. Kids 16 and older need a driver’s license or a government issued id. A valid photo id for every attendee is required for entry. All seminars and events are subject to change.