Each year, following our adventure through Rotten Apple, we explore the neighboring blocks of Burbank. Long time reader of Haunting, Tim Redman creates elaborate yard displays just one block over—this year tackling ghosts versus skeletons in a comical and lighthearted way. It’s a pleasure to see, and Tim always puts his heart into it. But as one kid walking by Tim’s front yard proclaimed, “this is nothing compared to the Burbank Clown House.” And while I might agree—I’d also say, I can’t think of many yard displays that are anything compared to the Burbank Clown House 2023.

The Burbank Clown House 2023 is a massive display of clowns across the entirety of 715 N Ontario St in Burbank. And while it started as just the front yard—it’s slowly expanded to include the alleyway on the side of the property too. From eight-foot-tall animatronics to clowns hanging from trees, to a functioning ticket booth to carnival tents and facades, there’s a literal sensory overload of clowns. It’s not just lights, scents, and sounds though, there’s bubbles spilling out onto the sidewalk and street.

Further, while there’s not currently any walkthrough element to the Burbank Clown House 2023 (beyond the literal sidewalk which is a haunt all on its own), they do employ actors on select nights. These scare actors often reside within the Clown House, peeking through windows, wandering through the sets, and posing as animatronics to scare unsuspecting newcomers. But these actors can often pass the threshold, interacting with the audiences and posing for pictures as well. This elevates this yard display above the traditional Halloween passive viewing and makes it a more active haunt experience.

As they have expanded into the alley, we noticed some more interactive elements here, like an electrified switch that was connected to sound and lighting effects. We also found a back-drop for photos with clowns posing with guests. Plus many more animatronics hiding in the trees, on the roof, and peeking over the fence.

Finally, as we prepare for this article, we notice that Burbankclownhouse.com is active and announces that a Burbank Clown House Shop is coming soon. This experience is going all in on branding and is looking to solidify itself as a Burbank Haunt staple. We’re greatly looking forward to seeing how this yard display evolves over the next few years. It’s clearly got plans that go far beyond the big top.

For more information about the Burbank Clown House, check out their Facebook, Instagram and website. For information about similar events, check out our Event Calendar.

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