Something is spreading in Old Town Manassas, and it isn’t pumpkin spice. ARTfactory’s Factory of Fear is back for 2026, and this year’s theme is Outbreak. Consider yourself warned (and maybe pack some hand sanitizer).
Factory of Fear is ARTfactory’s annual haunted house fundraiser. Every fall the four-story creative arts center on Battle Street gets turned into a full-blown Halloween nightmare, with a brand-new theme, new terrifying sets and live scare actors waiting around every corner. You’ll make your way through all four floors of the Factory with no idea what’s coming next. ARTfactory says Outbreak “has already begun,” so you can watch the Origin Story video on their site before you step inside and find out what happens next.
It’s earned a reputation, too: Factory of Fear was a 2025 Haunt of the Year nominee from Virginia Haunted Houses. Not bad for a building that spends the rest of the year hosting art classes and theater.
The best part? Every scream supports ARTfactory and its creative arts programming right here in Manassas. That’s what we call a monster of a cause.
Pro tip: Go on a Thursday (Oct. 15 or 22) and use code THURSDAYSCARIES for $3 off your ticket.
A few things to know before you go: all ticket sales are final, waivers are signed during checkout, and the walkthrough includes stairs. The elevator isn’t available during Factory of Fear.
So grab your bravest friends (or your most dramatic screamer) and get to the Factory. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you!
If you go
- What: Factory of Fear: Outbreak, ARTfactory’s haunted house fundraiser
- Where: ARTfactory, 9419 Battle St., Manassas, VA 20110
- When: Thursday, Oct. 15 and Thursday, Oct. 22, 7 to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, Oct. 16, 17, 23 and 24, 7 to 10:30 p.m.
- Cost: $25. Take $3 off on Thursdays with code THURSDAYSCARIES
- Tickets and info: virginiaartfactory.org/factory-of-fear
- Good to know: Four floors with stairs; no elevator access during the event. All sales final.
- Want to scare people instead? ARTfactory is looking for Factory of Fear volunteers. Sign up on the same page.