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Day 4 of Discovering Disney’s Eerie Side

Photo Credit: JillianWallin

When most people think of the Haunted Mansion, they picture ghostly apparitions, a stroll through the cemetery, or maybe the bone-chilling bride. You might even joke about coming back someday with your “death certificate.” But let’s be real—that’s just Disney talk. Most guests (or at least those with a dash of common sense) don’t actually consider the Haunted Mansion their eternal resting place.

Well… apparently common sense isn’t as common as we’d hope.

If you’ve ever been rushed off the ride mid-haunt, seen it suddenly shut down, and noticed cast members looking extra deadpan—it might not be a technical glitch. It could be because someone decided to scatter a loved one’s ashes inside the attraction. Yep. Some guests are determined to become the 1,000th ghost. And it’s not just a one-off.

This reportedly happens several times a year. The creepiest part? If cast members don’t catch it in the act… those ashes become part of the ride. And worse? They become part of the air we’re all breathing in. Shudder.

According to MovieWeb, the punishment for getting caught? You’ll be escorted out of Disneyland or Walt Disney World (though it’s unclear if that’s a lifetime ban or just temporary) and slapped with a $10,000 fine. Disney trips are pricey enough—imagine adding that to your tab! On the plus side, Anaheim PD says no official arrests have been made for this… yet.

In 2024, one such incident triggered a full shutdown of the Haunted Mansion. Because human remains were involved, Disney had to follow strict protocols: guests were evacuated immediately, and the ride underwent a deep clean before reopening.

Disneyland - Haunted Mansion Queue-- remember they are always watching! Photo Credit JillianWallin

So while it might sound like a spooky, sentimental send-off to leave your loved one among the Ghastly Ghouls… please don’t. Your actions could ruin the experience for thousands of guests—and trust me, no ghost wants to haunt a ride that smells like bleach and disappointment.

Sources:

1. Burwick, K. (n.d.). Disney’s Haunted Mansion has become a very popular place to scatter ashes. MovieWeb. Link

Want a social media teaser or eerie image to go with this post? I’ve got ideas brewing in the crypt!