DAYTON — Police were posted as thousands gathered for one of the busiest nights in the Oregon District.
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As reported Saturday on News Center 7 at 11:00, people dressed in Halloween costumes for the 38th annual Hauntfest.
News Center 7′s Malik Patterson explained it was like going through TSA to get in due to metal detectors and fences set up all around the Oregon District.
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One man told Patterson that Saturday marked his first time at Hauntfest.
“Drink a little bit, you know, hang out in the Oregon district. I don’t really get to come down here very often these days,” said Joe Friend. “I’ve always been busy. I’m in a band, and we’re usually playing a show tonight.”
Several performances were happening Saturday night on stage.
“Are you going to go down to the stage and critique those bands silently in your head?” Patterson asked.
“Oh, 100%,” answered Friend. “Yeah. Actually, I was already planning on going.”
Patterson spoke with one of the organizers before the crowds gathered.
Kait Laughlan, Vice President of the Oregon District Business Association, said Hauntfest is the Oregon District Business Association’s Super Bowl.
“It’s our biggest fundraiser that, she said. “(It) pays for a lot of the other events that we do down here throughout the year, so things even like landscaping or snow removal.”
Patterson also wanted to know the importance of having a high-security presence.
Metal detectors were moved before the party and police were at every corner.
“Really, the only rule is, you know, be courteous. You cannot bring any fake weapons, and obviously real weapons,” said Laughlan.
People also had plenty of food to choose.
“The bacon-wrapped hot dog was perfect. Like to die for beautiful,” said Friend.
Dayton Police will reopen E. 5th Street between Wayne Avenue and Patterson Boulevard after 1 a.m.
The funding from Hauntfest will help pay for the rest of the free block parties.
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