2025 Question and Answer With Circle of Ash

Circle of Ash's Manor Front Show

IowaHauntedHouses.com recently sat down with Chelsea Staats of Circle of Ash, to discuss what's new at Circle of Ash for the 2025 Halloween Season!

What's new at Circle of Ash for 2025? Do you have any new rides, attractions, or special features that Haunt Seekers should know about?

Axe Throwing
Upgraded Concessions
VIP Seating
Special discount nights, and Light fright for the kiddies at the end of the the month!

What are you most excited about for the 2025 Halloween Season?

Were most excited for Halloween to be on a Friday.

What differentiates Circle of Ash from other local haunts in Iowa?

We have scariest monsters around! We have long attractions with short lines and timed ticketing. We also have midway attractions and our MONSTER front of house entertainment.

How long has Circle of Ash been in business? Can you tell us a bit more about Circle of Ash's history?

Circle of Ash has been in operation since 2001. This is our 24th season.

What's your favorite experience since opening Circle of Ash?

Growing this business into what it is. Adding new attractions to our roster.

How long is a typical haunt experience at Circle of Ash from start to finish?

Each attraction takes between 10-15 minutes to transverse. Wait times in lines vary from as little as 5 minutes and as long as 45 minutes on our busiest nights.

On a scale from 1 to 10, how scary would you say Circle of Ash is? Why?

The Manor is the least scary, Frightmare Forest is our middle child, and and Socko's Fun house is our most intense attraction.

Does Circle of Ash's property have any real haunted history? Do you have a spooky encounter you'd like to share?

We are on the Linn County Fairgrounds which has it's own storied history. For many years the fair hosted chuck wagon races. Unfortunately horses were occasionally injured and had to be euthanized on site. Those horses were unceremoniously buried in the old compost piles next to our haunt. Today you can occasionally hear ghostly horses galloping down the lane to the grounds.

What inspired you to open up a haunted attraction? What's your favorite part of the business?

Insanity is the only plausible response. Connection to our community.

How has new technology (i.e. animatronics, special props, etc) helped you to enhance Circle of Ash?

Timed ticketing has helped tremendously with shortening wait times. We have a huge light and music show which we've had since 2007 featuring more that 20 speakers, lasers, and the latest in LED lighting technology.

Can Circle of Ash accommodate large groups? How many people can experience Circle of Ash together as a group?

Yes! And our VIP space can be reserved for your party! We will break groups up into groups of 6-8 while entering the attractions.

Does Circle of Ash offer any special deals, discounts, or coupons?

We offer corporate discounts, active duty discounts, plus several special nights with special discounts for those in various industries. We are also open to donating tickets for your next fundraiser or auction. September through October stickers can be found a various local businesses which when their QR code is used to purchased tickets attendees will receive an automatic discount.

Anything else you'd like to let us know about Circle of Ash?

Circle of Ash is run by a bunch of folks who are there for the love of it. We are ADA accessible, and a primarily outdoor event.