Lexington, Kentucky, November 1, 2025
Michael Cronk has launched a charity haunted maze, ‘Castle Dracula,’ on his Lincoln Avenue property in Lexington, Kentucky, to raise funds for victims of a recent EF-4 tornado. This annual event, organized with community support, features engaging, handcrafted attractions and has already generated over $1,000 for tornado relief. Open during Halloween weekend, the maze exemplifies the local community’s commitment to assist those affected by natural disasters through creative fundraising efforts.
Lexington Man Creates Charity Haunted Maze to Help Tornado Victims
Lexington, Kentucky – In a heartfelt initiative, Michael Cronk has transformed his Lincoln Avenue property into a haunted maze titled “Castle Dracula” to raise funds for victims of the EF-4 tornado that struck southern Kentucky in May 2025. This marks the fifth annual haunted attraction organized by Cronk, aiming to support the ongoing recovery efforts in the region.
Community Engagement and Support
The haunted maze, which opened on Halloween night, is a collaborative effort involving Cronk’s neighbors and local community members. The setup, taking nearly 25 days to complete, features handcrafted elements such as Frankenstein’s lab, complete with animatronics activated by pressure mats. The event has already raised over $1,000 for tornado relief, with plans to continue accepting donations through the weekend.
Background on the Tornado and Relief Efforts
The EF-4 tornado that hit southern Kentucky in May 2025 caused significant damage, particularly in Pulaski and Laurel counties. In response, various community-driven initiatives have emerged to support the affected areas. For instance, a Lexington store sold T-shirts to honor the victims, with all proceeds directed to the Team Kentucky Storm Relief fund. Additionally, Father Jim Sichko, a Lexington priest, utilized social media to collect over $60,000 in gift cards for survivors, distributing them to communities in need. These efforts highlight the resilience and generosity of Kentuckians in the face of natural disasters.
Ongoing Community Initiatives
Beyond the haunted maze, other local events have been organized to aid tornado victims. The “Kentucky Love” charity event in February 2022 featured a fashion show and live music, with proceeds supporting relief efforts in western Kentucky. Similarly, Lexington Catholic High School students participated in dress-down days, raising over $900 for victims in the Sunshine Hills community. These initiatives underscore the community’s commitment to supporting those affected by the tornado.
Conclusion
Michael Cronk’s “Castle Dracula” haunted maze serves as a testament to the Lexington community’s spirit and determination to assist neighbors in need. Through creative and collaborative efforts, residents continue to provide essential support to those impacted by the May 2025 tornado, demonstrating the enduring strength and compassion of Kentuckians.
What is the “Castle Dracula” haunted maze?
The “Castle Dracula” haunted maze is a charity event organized by Michael Cronk in Lexington, Kentucky. It features a haunted attraction with handcrafted elements, aiming to raise funds for victims of the EF-4 tornado that struck southern Kentucky in May 2025.
How much money has been raised for tornado relief through this event?
The “Castle Dracula” haunted maze has already raised over $1,000 for tornado relief efforts, with plans to continue accepting donations through the weekend.
What other community initiatives have supported tornado victims in Kentucky?
Other initiatives include a Lexington store selling T-shirts to honor victims, with proceeds going to the Team Kentucky Storm Relief fund, and Father Jim Sichko collecting over $60,000 in gift cards for survivors through social media.
How can I participate in the “Castle Dracula” haunted maze?
The haunted maze is open until 10 p.m. on Halloween night and from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors are welcome to experience the attraction at their own risk, with donations encouraged to support tornado relief efforts.
Where is the “Castle Dracula” haunted maze located?
The haunted maze is located on Lincoln Avenue in Lexington, Kentucky.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Lincoln Avenue, Lexington, Kentucky |
| Theme | Castle Dracula |
| Opening Hours | Halloween night until 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. |
| Admission | Free; donations encouraged for tornado relief |
| Handcrafted Elements | Frankenstein’s lab with animatronics activated by pressure mats |
| Community Involvement | Neighbors and local community members contributed to the setup |
| Funds Raised | Over $1,000 for tornado relief efforts |
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