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The Olney Boys and Girls Club Field of Screams will open this weekend, offering several "frightening" experiences for those who dare to enter.

Now in its seventh year, the event has evolved into four well-orchestrated attractions that utilize the talent of more than 100 aspiring performing and visual artists from area colleges and high schools.

"Between our experience, the conferences we attend to learn from Hollywood professionals and now these talented young adults, we have raised the level of quality, innovation and creativity to the highest levels ever," said Dan Dionisio, OBGC chairman. "Each year we make changes to all four attractions so it's a fresh experience for our customers. Having new ideas from young talent is the key to keeping it exciting and scary every year and this group has done an amazing job."

The fruits of the artists' efforts can be seen throughout the attractions, all designed to provide thrills and chills.

"Quite a lot is different this year," said OBGC executive director Elizabeth Deal. "We have many new people working on Field of Screams who brought along many creative ideas."

The Haunted Trail is completely overhauled and re-routed, and now has several all-new stations designed to "horrify" visitors from the moment they enter the woods. The 25- to 30-minute walk leads visitors through a forest haunted by the "undead," "homicidal maniacs" and other creatures. This year's trail features several new scares and characters as it winds and twists through make-believe graveyards, a slaughterhouse, crypts and a toxic waste dump.

The Haunted House has also been redesigned and expanded, and includes a surprise ending. The two-story house provides an eerie setting for visitors, who will twist around dark corners and traverse creaking staircases.

The new Haunted Hayride offers a 20-minute ride that has also been completely re-routed.

The Corn Maze is now "haunted." The 10-acre maze allows daring souls to try to navigate the labyrinthine field of corn.

A special Family Night is scheduled for Oct 11, during which the scares will be toned down so younger children can experience Field of Screams.

Although it is recommended for youngsters ages 7-11 years old, it may still be too scary for some children, organizers said, so parental discretion is advised.

"It is really important for us to set this night aside," Deal said. "Most haunted places don't offer a night like this, but we realize that we work with young children, and they want to see what it is all about."

Those attending Family Night can help raise money for their schools. When visitors mention their school when purchasing tickets, OBGC will donate 10 percent of the ticket sale back to the school.

More than 18,000 people are expected to attend this year's Field of Screams, which encompasses more than 40 acres of the Olney Boys and Girls Club Community Park at 4501 Olney-Laytonsville Road in Olney.

"It is growing unbelievably," Deal said. "People come from places like Virginia, Baltimore, Hagerstown and Pennsylvania to attend."

In addition to providing seasonal fun, Deal said the fundraiser is important to the club.

"It really helps with the ongoing maintenance cost of the park, and bridges the gap between the fees we charge and the actual cost to run the organization."

Deal said OBGC is hoping to raise approximately $75,000 this year.

The event also features bonfires and treats, including s'mores, deep-fried Twinkies and Oreos, funnel cake, pizza and hot chocolate.

Olney Boys and Girls Club's annual Field of Screams will run for 16 nights beginning Friday and

Saturday and continuing Oct. 9-11, Oct. 15-18, Oct. 22-25 and

Oct. 29-31. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary depending on the attraction and date. Visit www.screams.org for details.