Activities designed to elicit unease, fright, and suspense, commonly incorporated into seasonal celebratory events, are a specific type of entertainment. These activities frequently involve simulated horror scenarios, macabre themes, and playful attempts to induce a sense of dread among participants. An example is a darkened room scavenger hunt where participants search for dismembered (toy) body parts, guided only by flickering candlelight.
The employment of such activities enhances social interaction and provides an outlet for individuals to experience simulated fear in a controlled environment. This controlled exposure can be both recreational and, arguably, cathartic. Furthermore, the origins of employing elements of fear in seasonal celebrations can be traced back to ancient harvest festivals, which sought to acknowledge and perhaps appease unseen forces during transitional periods of the year.
