KNOXVILLE, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – One of East Tennessee’s best-known Halloween attractions will remain closed this year as operators continue searching for a new permanent location.
FrightWorks announced it will not open for the 2026 Halloween season, several months after closing its longtime home in Powell.
The haunted attraction has been a popular seasonal destination for Halloween enthusiasts across East Tennessee, but organizers say finding the right location for the future of the attraction is taking precedence over reopening quickly.
The announcement follows the closure of the attraction’s Powell site in July. Since then, FrightWorks officials have been evaluating potential relocation options.
In a statement, a FrightWorks representative said the organization is focusing on long-term success rather than rushing to secure any available property.
“Our focus right now is finding the right situation rather than rushing into a new location simply to reopen,” the statement said.
The decision means fans of the attraction will have to wait at least another year before FrightWorks potentially returns with a new venue and updated haunted experience.
Despite the setback, organizers indicated the attraction is not permanently closing and continues actively searching for a suitable location that can support future operations.
FrightWorks said updates on relocation plans and information about ways supporters can help with a future reopening will be shared through the attraction’s website.
Meanwhile, Halloween enthusiasts looking for haunted attractions this season are being encouraged to explore other options throughout the region. FrightWorks officials pointed visitors to Tennessee Screams, a recently launched online directory that helps visitors locate haunted houses and Halloween attractions across East Tennessee.
No timeline has been announced for selecting a new site or reopening the attraction.
For now, FrightWorks supporters will be watching closely for updates as one of the region’s most recognizable haunted attractions works toward its next chapter.
