In an unexpected fusion of holiday spirit and horror, the Lincoln Mill Haunted House in Philadelphia is set to launch “A Twisted Christmas” on December 12 and 13, 2023. This two-night event promises to transform the historic mill into a chilling winter wonderland, featuring over 50 scare actors who will bring the festive yet frightful experience to life from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each night.
Located at 4100 Main Street in Manayunk, the attraction is marketed as Philadelphia’s first Christmas-themed haunted house. Organizers aim to exceed last year’s success by incorporating a larger cast and more immersive storytelling elements. Guests will descend via freight elevator into the depths of the mill, where they will navigate a maze of unsettling holiday scenes inspired by the fictional mill owner, Viktor Kane. According to the storyline, Kane’s descent into madness leads him to hallucinate his workers as distorted elves and monstrous winter creatures.
Inside the mill, traditional Christmas decorations—such as trees, lights, and tinsel—will create a jarring contrast against the ominous sets, enhancing the overall atmosphere of dread. Jared Bilsak, co-founder of Lincoln Mill, remarked, “This attraction is built on immersive storytelling. We wanted to keep the Lincoln Mill narrative alive through the holiday season.” Bilsak highlighted the team’s vision of merging Halloween and Christmas, two holidays that resonate deeply with both staff and visitors.
The event follows Lincoln Mill’s most successful Halloween season to date and reflects a growing trend in seasonal haunts, which now extend beyond the fall. “Considering our attraction has naturally been designed to be scary, it only made sense that our Christmas experience be a dark, twisted one,” Bilsak noted. The team has worked year-round to enhance the venue, with upgrades to lighting, sound, and character design. A reconfigured layout ensures that no two visits will be the same.
Tickets for “A Twisted Christmas” are priced at $30 for general admission, with group rates available at $23. They can be purchased at lincolnmillhaunt.com. Organizers advise that the attraction is intended to be “very scary” and may not be suitable for young children. Visitors are also encouraged to explore additional holiday offerings in Manayunk, including the “Manayunk Gets Lit” light show and the “Manayunk Jolly Trolley.”
For those traveling to the event, convenient transportation options include nearby SEPTA Regional Rail stations, bus routes, and rideshare access. A recommended drop-off point is located at 4050 Main Street.
Looking ahead, Lincoln Mill is already planning future events, including “Viktor’s Valentine” on February 13 and 14, 2024, and a St. Patrick’s Day-themed haunt on March 14. This proactive approach to seasonal attractions suggests that Lincoln Mill will continue to captivate audiences with its unique brand of immersive horror.
As the holiday season approaches, “A Twisted Christmas” presents a novel and unsettling alternative to traditional festivities, promising a memorable experience for those seeking thrills alongside their holiday cheer.
