What began in 2019 with a few hay bales and a pumpkin has evolved into an immersive outdoor display covering nearly 5,000 square feet.
The attraction, known as Bearadise, is the creation of local homeowner Matt McCary, who has spent seven years turning his Halloween hobby into a free experience for families, according to News4JAX and the Fleming Island-Orange Park Times. A modest seasonal display has grown into one of the more elaborate Halloween attractions in an Orange Park neighbourhood, bringing together homemade decorations, theatrical effects and a touch of American history. The attraction now features a graveyard, handmade tombstones, towering skeletons, overhead cobwebs and hundreds of feet of lighting. Hidden speakers, sound effects and fog machines add to the atmosphere, giving visitors the feeling of walking through a carefully staged Halloween scene.
The attraction’s handmade details are another part of its appeal. McCary has created many of the tombstones himself, even inviting neighbours to contribute to the fun through a contest for humorous grave markers. The display has also developed into a shared community project, with residents helping bring the seasonal installation to life.
The attraction was previously known as the Haunted Pathway, according to a 2023 community newsletter published by Orange Park Country Club. Even then, it covered more than 4,000 square feet and featured themed sections including the Boneyard, Spider Alley and Witch Way. Today, Bearadise reportedly welcomes around 250 trick-or-treaters annually.
The annual event has continued to expand, with new additions introduced over the years. Its popularity is also evident beyond Halloween, with local children recognising the property as the neighbourhood’s Halloween house even during the summer months. Be respectful · TOI community guidelines For McCary, the attraction is ultimately about creating a place where families can share the excitement of the season. What began as a small decorating project has become a neighbourhood tradition, bringing together residents through creativity, nostalgia and a shared love of Halloween.
its lighting is sometimes switched on earlier to make it more accessible to younger children who might find the darker, more theatrical effects frightening Although the attraction is primarily designed for evening visits.