A unique holiday horror event, “A Twisted Christmas,” will open at Lincoln Mill Haunted House in Philadelphia, transforming the festive season into a chilling experience. Scheduled for December 12 and 13, 2023, from 18:30 to 21:30, this attraction promises to be a blend of holiday nostalgia and spine-tingling scare tactics, featuring over 50 scare actors.
Located at 4100 Main Street in Manayunk, Lincoln Mill is positioning itself as Philadelphia’s first Christmas-themed haunted house. This year, organizers have expanded the event significantly, aiming to create the most immersive experience to date. The historic mill will be transformed into a nightmarish winter wonderland, inviting guests to descend via freight elevator into the depths of a horror-filled maze.
Inside, visitors will encounter eerie holiday scenes inspired by the fictional mill owner, Viktor Kane, who is said to haunt the property. The storyline revolves around Viktor’s descent into madness, where he envisions his workers as twisted elves and monstrous winter creatures. This unsettling narrative is accentuated by traditional Christmas decorations layered over ominous settings, creating a stark contrast between festivity and fear.
Jared Bilsak, co-founder of Lincoln Mill, emphasized the importance of storytelling in the attraction. “This attraction is built on immersive storytelling,” he stated. “We wanted to keep the Lincoln Mill narrative alive through the holiday season. It only made sense to sprinkle Christmas essence over our haunted house space and offer something new and exciting to the community.”
The concept of merging Halloween with Christmas is a novel approach, reflecting the enthusiasm of both staff and visitors for both holidays. Bilsak noted the rarity of holiday horror events and the positive reception they have received. Following Lincoln Mill’s most successful Halloween season to date, the venue has also expanded its off-season offerings, which include events for Valentine’s Day and a “Halfway to Halloween” celebration.
The attraction has undergone continuous upgrades year-round, with enhancements in lighting, sound, and character design. The layout has been reconfigured to ensure that no two visits are the same, providing a fresh experience for returning guests.
Tickets for “A Twisted Christmas” are priced at $30 for general admission, with a discounted rate of $23 for group bookings. They are available for purchase at lincolnmillhaunt.com. Organizers caution that the event is designed to be “very scary” and may not be suitable for young children.
In addition to the haunted house, visitors are encouraged to explore other holiday offerings in Manayunk, including the Manayunk Gets Lit light show and the Manayunk Jolly Trolley. Transportation options include nearby SEPTA Regional Rail stations, bus routes, and rideshare access, with a recommended drop-off point at 4050 Main Street.
Looking ahead, Lincoln Mill is planning future events, including Viktor’s Valentine on February 13 and 14, and a St. Patrick’s-themed haunt on March 14. This commitment to year-round entertainment indicates that Lincoln Mill is not just a seasonal attraction, but a venue dedicated to providing unique experiences throughout the calendar.
For those who seek a holiday experience with a twist, “A Twisted Christmas” at Lincoln Mill promises to deliver an unforgettable and unsettling adventure this festive season.
