SPOKANE, Wash. — Forget traditional Halloween decorations. This October, people in Spokane and visitors are once again discovering a hidden gem that transports them straight into the pages of J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy world.
The Hobbit House, located at what is known as “Spokane End,” welcomes the community into an immersive experience inspired by the beloved author’s books. The homeowners created every detail themselves, from the hobbit hole’s architecture to the intricate decorations scattered throughout the property.
Ryan Oelrich and Rob Thompson, the founders, were inspired to create this attraction after visiting Hobbiton in New Zealand, the movie set where “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” films were shot. The Hobbit hole itself was built in 2017, but the first Hobbit Halloween event launched the following year.
“I had a bit of a rough time as a kid, and I remember somebody giving me the book The Hobbit,” Oelrich said. “I have never been the tallest person, so reading about other little people who can do some pretty big things meant something to me, and I have loved the adventure.”
Ryan and Rob now run Hobbit Halloween roughly a month to accommodate the hundreds, and sometimes even thousands, of people who make the journey to experience it.
The hobbit hole looks its best when fully illuminated, and organizers recommend visiting between 6 and 9 p.m. Visitors are asked to park on the pavement and walk up the dirt road.
This year, the Hobbit House has partnered with neighbors who created a hip hop house next door. Trick-or-treaters can visit both properties and collect candy at each location. Visitors also have the chance to win dragon eggs, some containing toy dragons and others filled with candy.
You can follow along for the latest details on the Spokane Hobbit House here.
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