For Burbank resident, a broomstick and a promise

The Burbank haunt “where screams are made” is back for Halloween — full of ghosts, goblins and folk tales.

Those looking to get their fright fix this weekend can head to “The Haunted Wilsley Manor” at 907 N. California St., where longtime resident Preston Meyer and his family have been scaring costumed kids and trick-or-treaters with their haunted house for more than two decades.

The idea originated 23 years ago as a birthday party for Meyer’s 9-year-old daughter, who was born just five days before Halloween.

Admission is free, but donations will go toward Family Promise, an assistance program for homeless families with children. Each year, the project has raised between $2,500 and $3,500 for charity, Meyers said.

He hopes to scare more than 3,000 people this year, but what is he most looking forward to?

“The first scream of the season,” he said. “That makes it all worthwhile.”

The manor is open from 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 26 and 27; and then from 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 28 and 31.

Follow Alene Tchekmedyian on Google+ and on Twitter @atchek.