House of Lecter and Old Catacombs Set to Reopen This Fall

Halloween fans in the Tristate just some good news.

Two Evansville Haunts Get New Life

Two veterans of the haunted attraction industry are joining forces to breathe new life into two of Evansville’s most iconic Halloween destinations. Kevin Stich, along with Kevin Alvey, the owner, and founder of Gore Galore, has officially acquired The House of Lecter and The Old Catacombs. The duo plan to honor the legacy of the creator of the iconic haunts, the late Philip “Phil” Wolter, while also introducing new energy for the 2025 season.

Honoring the Legacy of Phil Wolter

Phil had been a central figure in Evansville’s Halloween scene since the 1980s, and in 1996, he launched The Olde Courthouse Catacombs and later expanded with The House of Lecter. His passing in December 2024 left a void in the community, but Stich and Alvey say their top priority is to preserve what Phil built.

Get our free mobile app

“This season is for Phil,” Stich emphasized. “We’ll keep the bones of what locals love and layer in fresh energy. Then we’ll take a big swing in 2026.”

Upgrades Coming for the 2025 Season

While the 2025 timeline leaves little room for major overhauls, the pair says they will be making select upgrades. A new storyline will tie both attractions into a unified narrative universe. Costumes, makeup, and masks are being overhauled to elevate character presence, while scenic updates, crafted with Gore Galore’s monster-making expertise, will add a fresh thrill to the haunts' visuals.

A Rich History Beneath the Streets

Both attractions are rich in local history. Originally located beneath the Old Vanderburgh County Courthouse, the Catacombs became a seasonal tradition for nearly three decades. In 2024, operations shifted to 325 Main Street alongside The House of Lecter, but construction was halted after Wolter’s death. Stich and Alvey say they plan to revive the Old Catacombs in the building’s basement, maintaining the historic, eerie atmosphere.

When to Visit Evansville’s Haunted Attractions

According to the press release, doors for both haunts are expected to open in late September, with full details on the storyline, calendar, and ticketing to be announced soon. For fans of Evansville’s Halloween tradition, this season promises a heartfelt tribute to Phil and his creative vision, while giving us a taste of what's to come.