Early Halloween display causes dispute but has personal motivation

A woman in Fairfield, Ohio, has sparked controversy by putting up an elaborate Halloween display in August, leading to complaints from neighbors and visits from city officials. Marianne Peters, known locally as the “Queen of Halloween,” began setting up her “Nightmare on Bibury Street” decorations early this year due to personal circumstances.

“Halloween’s always been my favorite,” Peters told Realtor.com. “You can dress up, do what you want, and not be yourself.”

Peters' husband was diagnosed with mesothelioma in July and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. This prompted her to start decorating earlier than usual. She spends around 100 hours each year setting up and taking down her intricate display, which includes live actors on Halloween night.

“I put such a high-level display up because I like seeing the reaction from the kids that come by to see it,” Peters explained. “I do it for the enjoyment of others, and I’ve never had any complaints up until this year.”

The complaints about Peters’ decorations are believed to have come from new residents in the neighborhood. A 2023 poll by Martha Stewart magazine found that 63% of respondents think Halloween decorations should go up no earlier than October 1, though 20% believe it's never too early.

“You could’ve come to me and said something like, ‘Hey, why?’ and I would’ve explained to them why I did it so early,” Peters told ABC13.

Despite some objections, other community members have shown support for Peters. A Facebook post seeking assistance for her project received numerous offers of help.

“I’m so happy so many people are helping them out,” one Facebook user commented. “Halloween is a special time to a lot of us who love it. Her neighbors need to help this couple out or simply mind their own business.”

Another commenter added, “My kids LOVE seeing her display every year … She’s the absolute sweetest lady.”

The city of Fairfield has decided to allow Peters to keep her decorations up despite the complaints.