The annual Haunted Hayride at Petersen Park has begun and lasts through Oct. 24, 2015. Hosted by the Wonder Lake Water Ski Show Team, the Haunted Hayride is an event that draws in thousands seeking chills and thrills from the ski team, who will be haunting the spooky ride through the forest.

The Haunted Hayride takes place in Petersen Park near Gerstad Builders’ Liberty Trails community in McHenry, Illinois. It officially opened Oct. 10, and will be open on Oct. 16, 17, 23 and 24 from 7 until 10:30 p.m. Admission is only $8 per person, and is a major fundraiser for the ski team and supports local charities. Free parking and refreshments are also available for those brave enough to enter the forest.

Our CEO Roger Gerstad holds the Wonder Lake Water Ski Show Team near and dear to his heart, as he used to be the team’s boat driver. He continues to be an avid supporter and sponsor. Since 1955, the Wonder Lake Ski Team has been in existence and they started performing shows in 1959. However, it wasn’t until 1986 that the team began competing. Today, their primary objective is to perform to the best of their ability, entertain crowds and win national water ski titles. They have consistently finished in the top five at the National Tournament, and they have held the Regional title several times through the years. The team is made up of 140 members all from the local community; half the team is comprised of skiing members and the other half are supporters from all different age groups.

Gerstad Builders is a residential home building company that is proud to support the Wonder Lake Water Ski Show team and all of its fundraising efforts. For more information about Gerstad Builders, visit us at www.gerstadbuilders.com. For more information about the Haunted Hayride, visit www.wonderlakeskiteam.org.