A study of Fright Tourism during Hallowe’en

Authors

  • Robert S. Bristow Geography and Regional Planning Westfield State University
  • Dylan Keenan Geography and Regional Planning Westfield State University

Keywords:

fright tourism, dark tourism, haunted attractions, fear

Abstract

Fright tourism is a lighter form of dark tourism.  While similar elements of death and dying exist in both, fright tourism is a more entertaining version of the dark parent.  Fright tourism occurs when a tourist seeks a scary opportunity for pleasure at a destination that may have a sinister history or may be promoted to have one.  Since tourist motivation has been shown to be an important determinant of choice behavior, this research note explores the influence of fearful events in our world for a sample of spectators at a haunted attraction.  Citing examples of crime, natural disasters, personal finances and others, a scale of fear is created.

Author Biographies

Robert S. Bristow, Geography and Regional Planning Westfield State University

Robert Bristow is a professor in the Department of Geography and Regional Planning at Westfield State University.  When not trick or treating, his current research interests include fright tourism and cultural resource stewardship.

Dylan Keenan, Geography and Regional Planning Westfield State University

Dylan Keenan is a 2016 graduate of regional planning at Westfield State University and is currently an Environmental Planner for TRC Companies, Inc. He also serves as a Staff Sergeant in the Massachusetts Air National Guard and plans to enter graduate school for a Masters in Regional Planning.

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Published

2018-03-19

How to Cite

Bristow, R. S. and Keenan, D. (2018) “A study of Fright Tourism during Hallowe’en”, e-Review of Tourism Research, 15(1). Available at: https://ertr-ojs-tamu.tdl.org/ertr/article/view/165 (Accessed: 20 April 2024).

Issue

Vol. 15 No. 1 (2018)

Section

Articles

License

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