Darkness looms over O’Keefe Ranch as kids and families make their way through the corn maze. The still night is penetrated by cries of terror.
O’Keefe Ranch has had a wonderful season in 2017, celebrating 150 years of Victorian elegance and cowboy culture, but it’s soon time to close the doors to O’Keefe Mansion and open the gates to the haunted corn maze.
Field of Screams is back and scarier than ever as it overtakes the ranch Friday, Oct. 13.
The event is the largest single fundraiser of the year and it helps to financially support the care and maintenance of numerous historical buildings, thousands of artifacts, provides education to the public and a unique cultural experience for thousands visitors.
Field of Screams has grown in size and popularity over the past five years, and the event relies heavily on volunteers.
In 2016, there were approximately 80 crew onsite each night with various roles and responsibilities that help make the event a success. This year, there are a total of 11 nights of production and there is a need for more volunteer participation.
“The Ranch logs an astounding number of volunteer hours every year,” said Glen Taylor, general manager. “We simply could not operate without volunteers. Field of Screams is a unique event that attracts young people, artists and community members who are really dedicated about helping our community.”
The Ranch is asking for new and returning volunteers to donate their time and skills in the following areas: actors, set design and construction, maze spotters, front gate attendants, and a concession crew. A lot of work needs to be done in advance of the event and volunteers are needed right away. Volunteers can commit to an afternoon of work or every day of the event.
Field of Screams haunts O’Keefe Ranch Oct. 13, 14, 18-21, 24-28. Volunteer days and times vary. Contact info@okeeferanch.ca or call 250-542-7868 to sign up. For more information, visit www.okeeferanch.ca.