1st Annual Castle Dracula Weekend Convention - Wildwood NJ

Inaugural Castle Dracula Weekend!

Presented by the Wildwood Historical Society & CastleDraculaOfWildwood.com

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the spine-chilling history of Wildwood’s most iconic haunted attraction. The Castle Dracula Weekend is here, and it promises a nostalgic journey through the eerie corridors and macabre tales that once haunted the Wildwood boardwalk. This thrilling event will be held at Fox Park, right across from the Wildwoods Convention Center, from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.

What to Expect

Vendors & Artists: Discover unique and spooky memorabilia from various vendors and artists inspired by Castle Dracula. From gothic jewelry to eerie artwork, there's something for every horror enthusiast.

Q&A Sessions with Former Employees: Ever wondered what it was like to work in Castle Dracula? Former employees will share their chilling experiences and behind-the-scenes stories.

Exhibit of Surviving Artifacts: View a rare collection of surviving artifacts from the original Castle Dracula. These relics will transport you back to the heyday of Wildwood’s beloved haunted attraction.

Costume Contest: Unleash your inner ghoul or vampire and participate in the costume contest. Prizes will be awarded for the most frightening and creative costumes.

DarkInThePark Documentary Screening: Get a deeper understanding of Castle Dracula’s history and its impact on Wildwood with a special screening of the DarkInThePark documentary.

And much more! For more information, call 609.523.0277 or visit wildwoodhistoricalmuseum.com.

One local horror director was influenced by the castle and will be attending as well. Mario Cerrito discussed his thoughts by saying, "As a kid I would always go on the Wildwood Boardwalk and always hear the Dracule theme and I was scared to get near the castle back then. By the time I was 10 or 11 I finally went through it and loved it." He goes on to say, "It was one of the staples of the Wildwood Boardwalk and one of my inspirations to create horror!"

The Haunted History of Castle Dracula

Castle Dracula was once the jewel of the Wildwood boardwalk, captivating visitors with its eerie ambiance and thrilling haunted house experience. Opened in the early 1970s, it quickly became a beloved attraction, drawing in crowds eager to brave its dark corridors and frightening encounters. The castle’s intricate design and detailed sets created an immersive horror experience that left a lasting impression on all who dared to enter.

Tragically, the Castle Dracula met its demise in January 2002 when a devastating fire engulfed the structure. Despite the efforts of firefighters, the blaze reduced the iconic attraction to ashes, leaving behind only memories and a few surviving artifacts. The loss was felt deeply by the community and horror fans alike, marking the end of an era for Wildwood's boardwalk.

For those interested in learning more about this legendary haunted house, there is even a YouTube documentary available that delves into its history and untimely destruction.

When and where is the Castle Dracula Weekend taking place?

The Castle Dracula Weekend will be held on August 9 and 10, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Fox Park, located across from the Wildwoods Convention Center in Wildwood, NJ.

How much does the castle Dracula Weekend Cost? 

It is free to attend but there is special packages and sponsorships people can buy. 

What activities and attractions can visitors expect at the event?

Visitors to the Castle Dracula Weekend can look forward to:

• Vendor Booths: Offering unique items and spooky souvenirs.
• Artists Corner: Featuring artwork inspired by Castle Dracula.
• Q&A Sessions with Former Employees: Sharing behind-the-scenes stories and experiences.
• Exhibit of Surviving Artifacts: Showcasing memorabilia from the original Castle Dracula.
• Autographed Soundtrack: Available for collectors.
• Costume Contest: With prizes for the best haunting attire.
• Photo/Video Exchange & Contest: Share and archive your memories for a chance to win.
• Special DarkInThePark Documentary Screening: Delving into the history of Castle Dracula.

How can I participate in the costume contest?

To participate in the costume contest, dress up in your most haunting attire and join the fun at the event. Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes.

Can I bring my own photos and videos of Castle Dracula?

Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring original photos and videos of Castle Dracula. These will be scanned into the archive and entered into a contest for the most and best submissions.

Who can I contact for more information or if I am interested in vending at the event?

For more information or to inquire about vending, please email castledraculawildwood@gmail.com or visit www.CastleDraculaofWildwood.com. You can also contact the Wildwood Historical Society at wildwoodhistoricalsociety@hotmail.com or call 609-523-0277.

How can I stay updated on the Castle Dracula Weekend?

For the latest updates and information on Castle Dracula Weekend, visit www.CastleDraculaofWildwood.com and follow the event on social media using the hashtag #CastleDraculaWeekend.

A Nostalgic Journey

The Castle Dracula Weekend is a rewarding experience for those looking to reminisce about a cherished piece of their childhood. It’s a chance to celebrate the legacy of an attraction that brought fear and excitement to countless visitors. Whether you were a frequent visitor or have only heard the tales, this event offers a unique opportunity to relive the spooky magic of Castle Dracula. Don’t miss out on this nostalgic convention – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!