The Magic of Halloweentown in St. Helens, Oregon
In 1998, the late Debbie Reynolds appeared in a Disney Channel movie titled "Halloweentown." This film, which has become a beloved classic, was shot in a small town in Oregon that has since transformed into its own version of the spooky world depicted on screen. The real-life location, St. Helens, Oregon, has embraced its cinematic legacy and now celebrates it every year with a unique Halloween festival.
St. Helens, a town with a population of around 15,000 people, decided to capitalize on its connection to the movie several years ago. It began hosting an annual event that draws thousands of visitors eager to experience the magic of "Halloweentown" firsthand. The town's transformation into a Halloween wonderland is a testament to the lasting impact of the film and the community’s commitment to preserving its heritage.
Co-director Brett Whitcomb shared his inspiration for the documentary, saying, “When we saw an article that an entire town, their identity, has transformed itself because of this movie, and they-and 60,000 people come every year to, like, experience it and take pictures. We were, like, 'That's our kind of world we want to go explore.'” This sentiment led the filmmakers to travel to St. Helens and document the events that take place each year.
The result of their efforts is the documentary "The Spirit of Halloweentown," which captures the essence of the town during its six-week Halloween celebration. Co-director Bradford Thomason explained, “You're in Halloweentown whether you like it or not in St. Helens and how that manifests itself in you, I think, depends on you.” The film highlights the blend of fun, creativity, and community spirit that defines the event.
During the festival, there is something for everyone. Kids enjoy traditional Halloween activities, while high school cheerleaders perform impressive acts that add to the excitement. Adults are drawn to the more mysterious aspects of the event, such as seances and ghost-hunting experiences. The highlight for many is the haunted house, which offers a thrilling experience for visitors. However, some younger children may find it too scary and require assistance from adults to leave.
The documentary not only showcases the festivities but also tells the story of the people who make St. Helens special. Thomason emphasized, “We didn't make a film about 'Halloweentown,' the movie. We made a film about the people of St. Helens and, you know, if you see that and want to go, you know, be amongst those people and celebrate Halloween there, that's cool.” This message resonates with viewers who may feel inspired to visit the town and experience the magic for themselves.
One of the most iconic symbols of the festival is the giant pumpkin that greets visitors. In today's social media-driven world, this attraction has become a must-see for photo opportunities. The pumpkin serves as a reminder of the film’s legacy and the town’s dedication to keeping the spirit of "Halloweentown" alive.
"The Spirit of Halloweentown" is set to begin streaming on several platforms this weekend. For fans of the original movie and anyone interested in experiencing the magic of a real-life Halloweentown, this documentary offers a unique glimpse into a town that has turned its cinematic past into a vibrant, ongoing celebration. Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, the story of St. Helens is one worth exploring.
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