This historic village near Montreal is ‘cursed’ and visiting is like a real-life nightmare

If you’re looking for a Halloween experience that’s more than just pumpkins and lattes, pack up your car and head to the Haunted Village at the Village Québécois d’Antan in Drummondville.

Just an hour and a half from Montreal, this historic village goes full-on spooky every fall, transforming into a terrifying town straight out of your nightmares.

This year marks the 16th edition of their Haunted Village, and for 2024, the theme is La Malédiction—a cursed village where no one is safe.

Here’s the story: in 1877, a woman was wrongly accused of witchcraft and brutally murdered. Her son, devastated and consumed by grief, left town but returned 16 years later with a thirst for revenge. Now, his wrath has cursed the entire village, and you’d better be ready to feel that eerie vibe as soon as you arrive.

The Haunted Village isn’t your average Halloween scare fest. It’s a three-kilometre-long trail with over 20 terrifyingly realistic scenes and buildings. You’ll encounter everything from a creepy, deranged barber to a sadistic doctor, all played by over 100 actors who are disturbingly good at making you scream.

One minute, you’re dodging a terrifying baker wielding a bloody rolling pin, and the next, you’re wandering through the dark forest, unsure of what—or who—is lurking in the shadows. Even if you manage to escape one scare, there’s another one waiting just around the corner.

The whole experience lasts about three hours, but if you love the thrills, you can extend your night of terror until 11:30 p.m.

However, if all this horror gets your heart racing a little too fast, take a break at one of the on-site eateries like La Beignerie for a comforting snack. Plus, there are several spots to grab Halloween-themed treats, including popcorn, donuts, poutine or “multidimensional slushes.”

There’s also an escape room and a 3D short film for the bravest among you (additional costs apply).

Village Québécois d’Antan is already a bit eerie on its own, with its old-school 19th-century buildings and deserted dirt roads. Wandering through the village at night, you can almost feel the presence of the people who used to live there. Add some creepy lighting, a fog machine, and a few spine-chilling sound effects, and it’s like you’ve stepped straight into a horror movie.

Remember, this isn’t a place for little kids or those who are easily spooked! It’s also not wheelchair accessible—so plan accordingly.

If you’re travelling, remember comfy shoes (you might have to run) and clothes appropriate for Quebec’s unpredictable fall weather.

So, if you’re up for a night of unforgettable frights, grab your friends, hop in the car, and get ready for a Halloween road trip from Montreal. You’ll be screaming all the way home, guaranteed.