Halloween is quickly approaching and students are eager to get in the spirit whether they need a break from studying or just the thrill of getting scared.

There are many local places that are great for students looking for a great Halloween experience without the scary Halloween cost.

“Halloween is my favorite time of year,” said Tori DiBlasi, an 18-year-old freshman at Moorpark College. “I am always looking for something (to do) that’s fun and cheap.”

The Reign of Terror haunted house is a truly frightening experience held annually in Thousand Oaks at Janss Marketplace. This haunted house is ranked as one of the top 10 in the United States, according to the Conejo Valley Guide. Tickets are priced at $17 for regular admission and $25 for an express pass. The Reign of Terror haunted house opens Oct. 4 from 7-11 p.m. For information on additional dates and tickets visit: www.janssmarketplace.net.

Next on the list is the popular Haunted Hayride at Griffith Park. The park is divided into three scare zones: the Haunted Hayride, Purgatory, and the New House of the Horseman Show. Any of the three are good for a bone-chilling experience for anyone who dares to take part in it. Tickets are priced at $30 for the Hayride and Purgatory, $42 for all three zones, and $58 for all three zones plus front of the line access. For additional information and dates of operation, visit: www.losangeleshauntedhayride.com

Thirdly is the house at Haunted Hill. This chilling event includes a haunted show with an original show and score, according to the House at Haunted Hill Facebook page. The house is located on Saltillo Street in Woodland Hills and is a four night event from Oct. 30 – Nov. 2. The show is free, which is great for students on a budget, however, donations are encouraged. For additional information visit: www.houseathauntedhill.com.

Fourth on the list is Alone: An Existential Haunting. The haunting is an intense full contact event, meaning that anyone who dares go in must sign a waiver and be at least 18-years-old. While the walk through lasts about 30 minutes, each person must go in alone. Tickets for this unique event start at $45 with an optional $15 add on for a front of the line VIP experience. Opening night is Oct. 17. The haunting takes place in downtown Los Angeles, but the location remains a mystery until ticket purchasers receive an email with location information a few days prior to attendance. For additional information visit: www.thealoneexperience.com.

Last but not least is the Fright Fair Screampark at Pierce College in Woodland Hills. There are many different parts of the fright fair, including a full pumpkin patch, a maze, a haunted house, and many other fun events. It is open to the public from Sept. 26 – Nov. 2. Tickets are on sale online or at the door with prices ranging from $5 to $20, depending on what part of the fair students plan on attending. For additional information visit: www.frightfair.com.

“It’s really awesome that there is so much to do (locally) to get in the spirit,” said DiBlasi. “Now, maybe students will know they don’t have to spend a bunch of money every year going to theme parks.”

Students at Moorpark College can visit any of these places for an exciting Halloween experience. They are all perfect opportunities for students that need a break, but also enjoy delving into the Halloween season. Students have an excuse to get away from all the stress that comes from mid-semester without having to spend a fortune.