Background

10/19/2022
WARNING: Gore and Halloween decorations

Since 2015, Holly Agouridis has created an incredible display of Halloween animatronics for neighbors and those who know about it to enjoy.

I spoke to her today about what has since become known as “The Catalina Haunt” and what drives her to create this magnificent display every year.

Youtube video from this year’s “The Catalina Haunt 2022”

Visit “The Catalina Haunt”

It opened October 1st and closes a week after Halloween.

11423 Catalina Terrace
Silver Spring, MD 20902

Hours:

Sunday to Thursday – lights and sounds are on 6:45-8pm
Friday + Saturday – lights and sounds are on 6:45-8:30pm
Halloween stays on a little later like 9pm

CAUTION: For safety reasons all that we ask is DO NOT step on the grassy areas. There are too many cords, props and security cameras. We don’t want anyone to trip and fall. I hope to see everyone again this year.

Q&A Interview

How long ago did you start?

When my kids were little I did what everyone does, put pumpkins out and DIY, and lights nothing extravagant.

One day someone said have you ever been to spirit Halloween in 2014 and when I saw all the animatronics that’s what started it.

I would get the sales after season and started small until I got the 6 foot tall one that moves and makes sounds at the kids and I was just hooked.

What age did you start liking Halloween ?

I’ve always liked Halloween and did things with the kids. I volunteered to chaperone hayrides but I wasn’t a Halloween nut until 2015 when I was 42.

Do you decorate for other holidays?

No. By the time I set everything up and take down it is a lot. It takes a month to set up and 2-3 weeks to take down.

How much do you think you have invested?

Between $7,000-$10,000

Do people come out to take pictures? What’s it like being “the house” to visit?

I advertise on Nextdoor and have an Instagram account. It used to be the Haunted House on Catalina Terrace. One year a kid said we have to have a name and a 7 year old came up with the name “Catalina Haunt” and it’s basically word of mouth and it’s been on the news a few times and that brings people out.

Which is your oldest decoration?

First decoration is called “The Evil Doctor” and I got him 6 years ago and he is still going and set up a whole like a Doctor and Nurse.

"The Evil Doctor" is the oldest decoration. Here he is set up with an evil nurse and operating table — “The Evil Doctor” is the oldest decoration. Here he is set up with an evil nurse and operating table

How long does it take to install?

I start labor day in September to organize and buy corn stalks and plant them and I finish by October to give the whole month.

When I’m building it the kids and families come and watch. I have kids coming every night to come play and run around and its interesting to see the kids grow that have come year after year.