Circle of Ash

Know Before you Go

How much are tickets?

General Admission - $30.00 + Sales Tax (you must choose date & time for your ticket)
Flex General Admission - $33.50 + Sales Tax - online only, GA entree any night/time in 2025
Fast Pass - $48.00 + Sales Tax
VIP - $80.00 + Sales Tax (includes Hallowed Harvest and Off the Handle)
Season Pass - $125.00 + Sales Tax - Available Online only
Hallowed Harvest ADD ON - $10.00 to add on to GA or Fast Pass
Hallowed Harvest ONLY - $20.00 Adult or 18.00 Child
Off the Handle Axe Throwing - $5.00 (add-on only)

***GA, Fast Pass, and VIP tickets are $5 more at the gate, sales tax is inclusive in the gate price***

What is Hallowed Harvest?

Hallowed Harvest, presented by Circle of Ash, is a jack-o-lantern light show and attraction that is sure to captivate the whole family with its breathtaking display of artistry and craftsmanship. Spanning 1,200 feet, this immersive trail of glowing sculptures showcases thousands of hand-carved jack-o'-lanterns carved by talented artists from across the United States. Suitable for all ages, Hallowed Harvest combines festive Halloween spirit with awe-inspiring creativity, offering guests a unique and non-scary Halloween attraction.

Tickets are available online and in-person, and can be combined with Circle of Ash’s haunted attractions as an add-on, or purchased as a stand alone ticket. Hallowed Harvest generally opens 30 minutes prior to the posted opening time of Circle of Ash.

Prices:

Add on to Circle of Ash: $10.00 (with purchase of Circle of Ash GA or fast pass ticket)
Adult Hallowed Harvest Only Ticket: $20.00 each
12 and Under Hallowed Harvest Only Ticket: $18.00 each
V.I.P. Tickets include admission to Hallowed Harvest

What are your operational hours?

Thursdays 8 PM - 10 PM (open on select Thursdays, see our calendar for dates)
Fridays 8 PM - 11PM
Saturdays 7 PM - 11PM
Sundays 7 PM - 10 PM (open on select Sundays, see our calendar for dates)

When do ticket sales start and end?

Tickets for the season will go on sale by September 1st. We may announce early-bird sales, watch our social media pages for more info.

During the October season:

The Ticket Booth, Merchandise Counter, Concession Stand, Off the Handle Axe Throwing and Hallowed Harvest will open 30 minutes prior to the posted opening time.

Online ticket sales will end 1 hour prior to closing.

In-person ticket sales will end 30 minutes prior to closing.

Where is Parking? Is it free?

Parking is free! Our parking lot is located on the infield of the grandstands track at the Linn County Fairgrounds, 201 Central City Rd, Central City, IA 52214. Buses and large vehicles can be easily accommodated in our parking lot.

To get to the parking lot, from Gate 1 of the fairgrounds, follow the signs down Wapicadia Trail Road to enter the fairgrounds at Gate 4 (AKA the Pit Entrance). Each gate is clearly labeled.

ADA or Handicapped parking is located off the infield and closer to our ticket booth. Please notify the parking attendant at Gate 4 if you require an accessible parking spot.

Is it appropriate for kids? Can I drop my kids off and leave?

Our attractions offer a thrilling experience with a PG-13 rating, featuring mild blood and gore. We will keep you on the edge of your seat without crossing into horror too intense for young thrill seekers.

Children ages 16 and up are able to access the grounds and all of the attractions without an adult present

All individuals between 13 and 15 must have an adult present to be admitted onto the grounds, that adult must remain on the grounds the entire time; however, they don't need to enter the attractions with the kids. An entry fee is not a requirement of a chaperone who is not accompanying teens into the attractions. We offer a $10.00 Chicken Coop pass granting the chaperone access to our VIP tent space. Passes are available at the gate, and at our merch counter. Space may be limited on some nights.

Kids 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times while they are on the grounds, and must be accompanied in the attractions by someone at least 16 years or older.

Can I buy tickets on-site? Are there price differences?

Yes! Our ticket window opens 30 minutes prior to the posted opening time. And closes 30 minutes prior to the posted closing time.

Tickets are $5 more expensive on-site vs. online (this is to cover sales tax and carrier processing fees).

We accept all major forms of payment on-site, including tap to pay.

Checks are not accepted unless previously arranged for large groups.

Onsite tickets may be sold out/unavailable during some times on our busiest nights of the year. Generally the last two Saturdays of October.

Some discounts, including our industry night discounts must be redeemed in-person only.

What is the Fast Pass?

A fast pass grants the purchaser entry to each of our three attractions using our VIP/Fast Pass Lines. It is good for ONE admission to each of our attractions. A pass should be purchased for each person in your party. The Fast Pass/VIP queue lines average a 5-10 minute wait.

A Fast Pass can be added to your general admission ticket on-site. If you decide to add the fast pass to your ticket when you arrive, please alert the ticket booth staff they can upgrade you on the spot.

If you are unsure if a fast pass will be necessary we suggest you wait until your arrival before purchasing the upgrade.

We suggest the fast pass if you:

Want to lord your fast pass over our other victims/patrons still waiting in line
Did not/probably won't dress for the weather
Don't like lines
Want to attend multiple haunted houses in the area in one night
Want to impress your date

What is a VIP Ticket?

A VIP Ticket is a lot like the Fast Pass, with one big caveat: unlimited re-entry. That's right, you will be able to skip the lines, and go through our three haunted attractions as many times as you can handle. We cut off re-entries 30 minutes prior to closing.

VIP's get treated like VIP's at CoA too, some added perks:

Exclusive access to our themed VIP Lounge with a private fire table for your group
Free entry to Hallowed Harvest *****LINK HERE
5 Minutes of Axe Throwing with Off the Handle
15% off Merch & Concessions
Free Keepsake Wristband

Is it scary?

YES, it’s scary! We work hard year round to develop a fun, safe, and scary Halloween event, and we strive to give you what you paid for. Unfortunately, not everyone will allow themselves to let go and have some fun being scared, so we try to entertain those individuals in other ways. You may scream, laugh, shield your eyes, or any number of things… but we hope you leave ENTERTAINED.

Do I need to wear anything special?

Circle of Ash is primarily an outside attraction. While some of our attractions do include indoor spaces, 100% of our queue lines and most of the attractions are outside.

Temperatures drop rapidly in the fall when the sun goes down, so please dress for the weather! We recommend wearing layers to stay warm. Additionally, please wear closed-toed shoes for safety and comfort. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing will ensure you have a fun and safe experience during your spooky adventure at CoA.

How long does it take to go through?

Our typical response to this question is: "It depends how fast you run." (Although, we really appreciate it when you don’t run, for safety sake) In all honesty, this is a terribly difficult question to answer. Since all of our attractions are self-guided walk through mazes, you're in control of how long it really takes.

If you have purchased a general admission ticket and come on a busy night, expect your time with us to be on the order of HOURS, not minutes. If you have places to be and other things to do on the night you attend, you can shorten your time with us by purchasing a Fast Pass or by attending CoA during the first week of October or on a Thursday or Sunday night.

What size of groups do you allow?

We allow groups up to 6 persons to enter each attraction together; however, exceptions and changes to this rule are at the discretion of the queue line attendants.

On our busy nights, queue line attendants will pair up smaller groups into groups of 6.

If you have a group larger than 20, we strongly encourage you to pre-register with Info@circleofash.com

What happens if I’m too scared to get through?

In the event that you cannot make it through an attraction, inform any of the cast members that you would like to immediately exit the attraction. A staff member will assist you out of the attraction and back into the courtyard where you can wait for your friends and family.

Do you offer group or corporate rates?

Groups of 20 or more people qualify for group rates, but you must pre-register. ALL GROUPS MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE TO RECEIVE THE DISCOUNT. To register please contact us at info@circleofash.com. If you are tax exempt, please include an Iowa Sales Tax Exemption Certificate with your email.

I lost my phone or other personal item in the attraction. Can you go find it for me?

Sorry, we cannot stop the show and look for your lost item. Our staff are always on the lookout for lost items, and when found they will be brought to the merch booth.

If you have lost an item please see the merchandise counter for assistance. If you have already left the premises, please reach out to us via text at 319.540.3327 to report the lost item and to schedule a pick up time.

It’s raining and/or snowing outside. Will you be open?

Yes. We are open in the event of light rain or snow. However we reserve the right to close if weather becomes dangerous or inclement.

What kind of special effects are in use?

Our attractions may use lights, fog and other atmospheric effects, loud sounds, 9 volt shocking devices, scents and smells, lasers, projections, black lights, squeeze tunnels and dark areas. We also have areas of uneven floors, ramps, and extruded flooring surfaces.

Are you handicap accessible? Are there any tight spaces?

We pride ourselves in building attractions that are accessible to everyone, but please be aware of the following: We've made every effort to ensure that our attractions are accessible to everyone, including those in a wheel chair. With that being said, the attractions especially the outdoor portions can be EXTREMELY DIFFICULT to navigate without assistance. We offer assistance to those wanting it during your visit, please speak with anyone at the ticket booth for accommodations.

Handicap accessible parking is available, please alert the gate attendant if you require an accessible parking space.

One of our attractions features a tight maze, with the tightest point being the entrance (18” wide). There is a separate ADA path that goes around this set if you wish to skip it. There is signage in place to help you navigate which path to choose.

I'm pregnant, can I still attend Circle of Ash?

Yes, you can! You know your body better than we ever could, so we leave that decision up to you. If you have any questions about the experience before you arrive, please feel free to contact us and ask. Otherwise, have fun and we will see you there!

Under what conditions may you close the event prematurely, and how is my ticket handled?

It's extremely rare that we close the attraction, but there are a few reasons why we might: Inclement weather (thunderstorms, tornadoes), security issues that may represent a threat to the general public, or safety issues that may be dangerous to guests (power problems, environmental dangers, etc). Our first and foremost goal is the safety of all of our guests, cast and crew. In the unlikely event that we do have to close the attraction for one of these reasons, you will be invited back to finish your experience with us on any of the following operating nights that season.

I represent a media outlet, how can I contact you?

Media inquiries can be sent to pr@circleofash.com. Please note that the vast majority of our advertising decisions are made a full year in advance, however in-kind trades or sponsorships are considered year-round. Special appearances or requests to use our sets and scenes should be made with at least 10 business days of notice.

Do you have concessions?

We do have concessions! We offer the following food and drinks.

Water/Soda/Energy drinks
Hot Cocoa
Popcorn
Nachos with chili/cheese
Hot Dogs & Brats
Soft Pretzel with Cheese
Warm cookies

Do you sell alcohol?

New this year!

We will be hosting Bit Brewery for 5 nights. They will be selling a selection of beverages including a speciality Socko’s Fun House Grape Cotton Candy Sour Beer.

Below you will find the dates for alcohol sales

Saturday, October 11th
Saturday, October 18th
Saturday, October 25th
Halloween Night! Friday, October 31st
Saturday, November 1st

Are bags allowed?

Generally speaking, bags or large purses are not allowed on the premises. Small or clear handbags are allowed. Exceptions can be made if the individual has a medical condition. We reserve the right to inspect any bag or handbag brought into our premises.

Can the actors touch me?

No! Circle of Ash does not allow touching of any kind and that goes for everyone, guests included. Now we know that accidents happen, but any obvious occurrences of touching our actors, props, sets, or decor will result in immediate removal from the grounds.

Do you have a private party space to rent?

Yes. On select nights we are able to close all or part of the VIP lounge for private parties. You and your guests would have access to the entire tent space or half the tent space for the evening. We are also able to provide concession items for your guests as party trays for an additional cost. For questions regarding booking private events email info@circleofash.com.

What is Off the Handle?

Off the Handle is a mobile axe throwing trailer available as an add-on to your CoA or Hallowed Harvest ticket, offering a fun and safe experience with a trained coach on-site to provide instruction and assistance. For $5, you can enjoy 5 minutes of axe throwing, with tickets available for purchase online, at the ticket booth, or at the axe throwing trailer.

Rules

No Smoking, Anywhere. If you must smoke, we will ask you to return to your car with a re-admission stamp at the merch counter. E-cigarettes & Vape-Pens are permitted ONLY in designated areas and cannot be used in line or in any attraction.
All individuals under 16 must have an adult present to be admitted onto the grounds
Kids under 13 must be accompanied by an adult IN all attractions, and on the grounds.
No touching, period! Intentionally touching, poking, punching or otherwise coming in physical contact with the actors, props, scenes or sets will result in immediate ejection from the attraction and the grounds. No exceptions.
Do NOT use your phone while in the attractions. Including, flashlights, taking calls, texting, taking photos, video, or any other use of your device inside of the attractions. Failure to follow this rule will result in ejection from the attraction.
No bags, backpacks, large purses etc. Attendees will be asked to return their bags to their vehicle. We reserve the right to inspect any bag which needs to be brought onto the property (medically necessary).
No running. Unless you want to be monster food.
Follow all instructions of Cast, Security, and Staff. Especially in the event of an emergency.
If you see something, say something. All security staff are wearing gear with the company logo and the word Security on their clothing, please bring your concerns to their attention.
No fighting. Anyone found to be interrupting other attendees' fun night out with us will be asked to leave.
No weapons. You will be asked to return any knives, firearms, etc. to your vehicle.
No recording of any type inside the attractions. Photos and videos are allowed and encouraged everywhere outside of the attractions!
No outside food or beverages. Food and beverages are available for purchase at the concession stand and must be consumed in the courtyard area or in queue lines. You may not bring food items into any of the attractions.
No Masks or Props For your safety and the safety of our actors, we ask that masks not be worn and props be left in your vehicle.

Warnings

Watch your step!

Inside all attractions you will be exposed to uneven ground, occasional mud, flooring of varying materials, damp conditions, bridges, crosswalks, moving floors, special effects, and all sorts of other things that can cause you to lose your footing. Outside of the attractions is a natural field and it does contain uneven areas. PLEASE WATCH YOUR STEP AND MOVE SLOWLY.

Use of Strobe Lights

Strobe lights are in use in all attractions to varying degrees. If you are sensitive to strobe lights please alert the queue line attendant before entering any attraction.

Artificial and sometimes natural fog

We like it foggy. Our fog is water based and will not harm you!

Low Lighting

Lighting varies throughout each attraction, you may be exposed to black out conditions and very low lighting, this is intentional. Do not attempt to use personal flashlights in these spaces.

Loud Noises

You may be exposed to occasional startling and loud noises.

Shocking Devices

Shocking devices may be present in the attractions, however these are no more than a static shock.

Gore/PG-13

You assume all risks

Enter if you dare, but beware—Circle of Ash is not for the faint of heart. By choosing to enter our premises, customers assume all risks associated with the frightening experience, including potential scares, surprises, and physical hazards. Please proceed with caution and enjoy the thrill, knowing you do so at your own risk.

Consider your participation if you suffer from certain medical conditions:

Asthma, Heart Conditions, Panic/Anxiety Attacks, Seizures, or any other medical condition that would make it difficult for you to maintain control and manage your safety while in our attractions.