RIVER RANCH, Fla. (Sept. 22, 2026) -- The shadows are growing longer and one of Central Florida's most anticipated Halloween traditions is back. Westgate Resorts today announced the return of The Haunting of River Ranch at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, inviting guests to experience spooky thrills, festive entertainment, and unforgettable fall fun from September 25 through November 7, held every Friday and Saturday night.
A fan-favorite annual event, The Haunting of River Ranch transforms the award-winning dude ranch into a Halloween-themed adventure filled with scares, surprises, and seasonal excitement for guests of all ages. This year's event features the return of the popular Haunted Stables Experience, where brave visitors can walk through a spine-chilling haunted attraction filled with creatures, surprises, and eerie encounters. Guests can also enjoy a haunted playground, spooky games and activities, themed food and beverage offerings, and a lively scare zone.
The excitement culminates on Halloween night, October 31, with a special Halloween-themed rodeo that combines the authentic Western spirit of River Ranch with festive seasonal entertainment.
"The Haunting of River Ranch has become a beloved fall tradition for our Owners, guests, and the local community," said Jim Szabo, General Manager of Westgate River Ranch. "Whether you're looking for thrilling haunted attractions, family-friendly Halloween fun, or a unique fall getaway, this event offers an unforgettable experience unlike anything else in Florida."
General admission tickets are now available for purchase for $15, and guests are encouraged to reserve early as many nights are expected to sell out.
For those looking to turn a night of scares into a full weekend escape, Westgate River Ranch is offering special "Stay and Scream" getaway packages on select weekends through Halloween. Most weekends feature overnight packages that include event tickets along with special resort benefits, allowing guests to enjoy both the Halloween festivities and the resort's signature Western adventures. Guests can also use promo code HAUNT when booking qualifying packages.
Beyond The Haunting of River Ranch, visitors can enjoy the resort's renowned horseback riding, airboat rides, archery, trap and skeet shooting, glamping experiences, rodeo performances, and wide-open Florida wilderness, making it the perfect destination for a memorable autumn getaway.
About Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Located on 1,700 acres overlooking the iconic Kissimmee River, Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers an authentic Florida dude ranch experience featuring luxury glamping, horseback riding, airboat adventures, championship rodeos, and unique outdoor recreation experiences for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
For more information, visit WestgateResorts.com. To join the Westgate team, visit careers.westgateresorts.com.
###
ABOUT WESTGATE RESORTS
Westgate Resorts is a diversified hospitality company headquartered in Orlando, Fla., featuring the largest privately held timeshare resort club in the world and a portfolio of nearly 60 resort properties. The company offers spacious villa accommodations, world-class amenities, and family-friendly destinations in sought-after locations such as Orlando, Las Vegas, Gatlinburg, Park City, Myrtle Beach, and now Bimini in The Bahamas, Westgate's first Caribbean destination. In 2025, the company expanded its footprint with the addition of VI Resorts by Westgate, enhancing its presence in the Pacific Northwest, Hawaii, Canada, and Mexico. Since its founding in 1982, Westgate has focused on creating memorable vacations and delivering exceptional service, while maintaining a commitment to innovation, hospitality, and community engagement. Whether guests are seeking relaxation, adventure, or a combination of both, the company’s 9,000 Team Members provide personalized and value-driven getaways tailored to every traveler’s needs. Exclusive vacation packages can be found at WestgateReservations.com. Connect with Westgate Resorts on social media through LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook and learn more at WestgateResorts.com.
MEDIA CONTACT
-
Steven Goldsmith Vice President, Communications and Public Relations Orlando, FL