This spooky display will once again be featured at 113 Highland Ave. in the Shark River Hills section of Neptune just in time for Halloween.
Once again, the Bizzaro Circus and Midway will be pitching its tent next to a haunted graveyard in the Shark River Hills section of Neptune on Halloween.
Featuring new additions and haunted spirits, the show is now entering its seventh year of raising money for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation and continues to be a fun time for every visitor.
But it’s not so much fun for children with cancer. As a matter of fact, it can be downright scary. And, as someone who has dealt with cancer, Jim Granelli, who hosts the display, can easily understand how much scarier it can be for a child.
In addition to raising awareness for children’s pediatric cancer, the effort raises donations for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation in Irvine California. Each year the fundraiser has surpassed their fundraising goals and the Granelli family would like to do that again this year. Last year they more than beat their original goal of $1500, raising $1754. This year they’ve increased their 2022 goal to $2200 putting the effort on track to raise $10,000 or more for the PCRF over 10 years.
This year, the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation (PCRF) celebrates 40 years of cutting-edge research, providing education and lifesaving advancements for children with cancer. Since 1982, PCRF has been partnering with businesses, foundations, and individuals to improve the care, quality of life and survival rates of children with malignant diseases because the PCRF is committed to continuing to fund innovative research so that every child can have the hope of a cancer free future.
Laura Granelli explained that “We’ve been doing Halloween big for some 13 years now, especially after Hurricane Sandy to thank volunteers who helped us after the storm and to give back. Jim’s really built it up over the years and many of the display pieces are handmade. Not only will two animatronics be returning this year after being asleep in the crypt for a couple of years, but all the old standbys are also back along with new ones. And there will be new items to haunt our visitors. It’s a lot of work to set up and maintain, but it’s worth it considering the laughter from children and adults alike. Even our dearly departed Labradors, Jessie and Delia will be showing up.”
Nearly 3000-square-feet is dedicated to the display, highlighted by haunting fog, music, over 14 animatronics as well as lively ghosts who might also be visiting on Halloween night. And, if the spirits are feeling generous, there might be a surprise or two.
The motto of the display is a Little amount of folding money from a Lot of people goes along way.
Modest donations are all the family asks. Bring a few dollar bills and leave them in the Clown Donation Box by the driveway as you enjoy the display.
“Don’t worry, the clowns won’t bite, but you must be careful of the haunted spirits who will gladly take you instead of a donation,” Granelli said.
