WILLIAMSBURG -- Howl-O-Scream returns to Busch Gardens tonight, Sept. 5, as will the park's chaperone policy.
The policy was rolled out following an altercation on Sept. 14 of last year that brought a James City County Police response. During its investigation, an 18-year-old male approached officers at the park entrance and reported that he had been stabbed.
Shortly after the incident, Busch Gardens introduced the chaperone policy, stating all visitors aged 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old when visiting the theme park after 4 p.m. on Howl-O-Scream event nights.
The chaperone is required to accompany their party at entry, remain inside the park during their visit and be available by phone throughout their stay. Guests aged 15 years or younger who are found inside the park without a chaperone meeting those requirements are subject to ejection without refund.
This year, the policy remains, as do chaperone ID and park presence requirements. Busch Gardens adds it reserves the right to enforce the chaperone policy earlier on any given day. The policy applies to all ticket holders, Fun Cards, Passes and Memberships, according to the park.
During Howl-O-Scream, Busch Gardens adds no bags will be permitted after 4 p.m. Wristlets and fanny packs measuring less than 8-by-5 inches are permitted and subject to security inspection. Exceptions may be made for medical reasons.
This year's Howl-O-Scream event will feature two new haunted houses as well as three new shows. For more information on the event and park policies throughout the season, visit the official website.