Lambertville Creative Arts Fund carries on Halloween House tradition with Memory Maker's Trail of Magic in downtown Lambertville.LAMBERTVILLE, NJ — For more than 20 years, visitors flocked to North Union Street each October to see the whimsical, eerie, and unforgettable Halloween displays created by retired art teacher Dolores Dragan.Known affectionately as the “Halloween House,” her home became a local legend — drawing thousands to marvel at hand-crafted sculptures, colorful characters, and playful sc...
Lambertville Creative Arts Fund carries on Halloween House tradition with Memory Maker's Trail of Magic in downtown Lambertville.
LAMBERTVILLE, NJ — For more than 20 years, visitors flocked to North Union Street each October to see the whimsical, eerie, and unforgettable Halloween displays created by retired art teacher Dolores Dragan.
Known affectionately as the “Halloween House,” her home became a local legend — drawing thousands to marvel at hand-crafted sculptures, colorful characters, and playful scenes that transformed her porch and yard into a wonderland.
But for Dolores, it’s never been just about decorations. After retiring from teaching, she embraced what she called “the role of the Memory Maker. I just want to make memories. I want kids to remember this when they’re 70.”
After decades of the labor-intensive work of setting up at her home for Halloween, she’s ready to share the magic in a new way and has asked the Lambertville Creative Arts Fund to carry her work to a new chapter.
Beginning in October, her beloved creations will come to life again as Memory Maker’s Trail of Magic— a month-long, citywide celebration produced by the Lambertville Creative Arts Fund. Instead of being limited to one home, the displays will appear throughout Lambertville’s business district, placed in shopfronts and community spaces for everyone to enjoy.
“Dolores has given this town a gift that went far beyond Halloween — she gave us moments that stick with you for a lifetime,” said Lisa Shippy-Woods of the Lambertville Creative Arts Fund. “We’re honored to share that magic with the whole city.”
Thanks to the generosity of River Valley Realty - the premier sponsor and other local business sponsors, volunteers, and supporters, Memory Maker’s Trail of Magic will blend art, tradition, and community spirit, encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore Lambertville in a whole new way. The event will be free, self-guided, and perfect for all ages.
The trail will be open throughout the month of October. Click here for the Trail of Magic Map.
The Lambertville Creative Arts Fund is a nonprofit organization devoted to fostering creativity and community through public art, music, and storytelling. Its mission is to celebrate Lambertville’s artistic heritage while inspiring new generations of makers and dreamers.