From hungry zombies and a rotten apple-toting clown to a skeleton-captained pirate ship, fortune teller and spooky mansion for creepy dolls, it’s not hard to miss the Halloween display in Shannon Nyberg’s yard on South Main Street in Monona.

What started with blow-up decorations a few years ago has grown into a full-blown haunting with themed sections.

“It’s just really taken off,” Nyberg said.

Nyberg has long enjoyed Halloween.

“Halloween can be fun and it can be scary—all the elements rolled into one,” she quipped.

From throwing Halloween-themed parties to working with children over the years, their excitement over the holiday further spurred her interest in creating an outdoor display. So did her creativity.

“I love making things,” Nyberg said.

As a result, her display includes a lot of homemade items.

“This year, I made two zombies, a clown and a Medusa using toy snakes. I painted little horror dolls and a haunted house. I use a lot of pool noodles and zip ties to make things. I repurpose a lot too,” she shared.

While Facebook has been a good source for inspiration, Nyberg acknowledged many ideas just come to her.

“Everyone needs a hobby, and this is mine,” she joked.

Creating a Halloween display this size can take months to prepare, according to Nyberg. It doesn’t just pop up overnight.

“It takes days to set up,” she said.

Especially so when Nyberg aims to make the display different each year.

“I’m always adding new stuff or trying to change it up. I can’t just put it up exactly the same,” she said. In fact, “I’m already thinking of stuff to add for next year.”

With the fun and frightening decorations and the home’s proximity on Monona’s main drag, it’s not surprising Nyberg gets a lot of trick-or-treaters. She estimates around 250 each year.

She not only hands out candy, but incorporates little toys and prizes.

“Last year, I had them spin a wheel for a bigger prize. So it’s not just the yard. I try to make it fun for trick-or-treaters,” Nyberg said.

Monona trick-or-treat hours are from 5 to 8 p.m. this Saturday, Oct. 31, but Nyberg plans to set up early and open by 4 p.m. so people can take pictures as they head to other homes or downtown for Monona Chamber and Economic Development’s Trunk or Treat.

For others who wanted to grow their own boo-tiful display, Nyberg emphasized creativity is important. Look for deals after Halloween to save a few bucks, then try to make or repurpose as much as you can.

Patience is key too.

“It takes time—more than you realize. But it’s worth it,” Nyberg said. “I love seeing the kids and people and being part of the community. I enjoy making them excited about Halloween.”