A “creepy carnevil’ at the White Web’s Haunt Haunted House. Photo courtesy of Durl White

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – Instead of starting a band or building a computer in his garage, Durl White went to the dark side and started a haunted house.

The White family debuted their family-friendly haunted house to the community back in 2017 and it has since grown into White Web’s Haunt Haunted House, a YouTube Channel and become a big player in the underground haunted house community.

Durl and wife Erica White shared the journey with the Gridley Herald, weeks before their 2025 Haunted House opens for the scary season.

Aleena and Father Durl White hint at a potential new feature this year at the White Webs Haunted House? Potentially. Photo courtesy of Durl White

Each year, the husband-and-wife duo, supported by their children Cash and Aleena, put on a huge show for the public for three days around Halloween.  

The garage still functions as part of the haunted house, but it has expanded to take up the back yard, utilizing an array of pop-up tents, tarps and more to create long winding hallways to funnel guests through a variety of themed rooms.  

Despite the home-made horror props and scary scenes, the Whites say they strive to keep the unnecessary gore to a minimum and focus more on surprise to make it suitable for all ages.

With their own children being participants from early ages and enjoying it, the Whites encourage youth volunteers and actors to participate in the fun.

Despite the home-made horror props and scary scenes, the Whites say they strive to keep the unnecessary gore to a minimum. Photo courtesy of Durl White

While the event has been free in the past, the Whites have networked with local service groups and school classes in order to recruit volunteers to help run the show and function as actors. As a result, White Webs Haunted House will be asking for a $5 donation for entry this year, with all proceeds being donated to the graduation Class of 2029.

The frights would not be possible without the help of volunteers. From building and set up, to actors, the Whites say finding the man-power to create the scare-power can be difficult.

“Our biggest struggle is finding volunteer actors for Halloween night,” said Durl White. Erica agrees, adding that their youth and teen actors aren’t available due to personal plans.

The White family debuted their family-friendly haunted house to the community back in 2017 and it has since grown into White Web’s Haunt Haunted House. Photo courtesy of Durl White

The Whites welcome volunteers and will set them up with props and outfits if needed, or they can furnish their own and a position will be found for them. Erica reaffirms that actors will be assigned roles appropriate for their age and their comfort level.

Durl goes over safety information each night with the actors before performances begin, and guests are cautioned.

This years showtimes include 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. showings Oct. 25 and 26, and a Halloween night show Oct. 31 from 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.  The haunts happen at 1653 Ban Dr., Gridley.

If you’d like to volunteer at this year’s White Webs Haunted House, reach out to Erica White at 254-423-6001 or send a message to White Web’s Haunt Facebook page.