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Our Story

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The Sandusky Witches Walk® began in 2009 as a grassroots pub crawl at James A. Bertsch Jeweler, the vision of founder Michelle Bertschl-Herold. Nine local businesswomen put on pointed hats to bring a spark of mischief to a quiet downtown night. The spell took hold.

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In 2011, the Walk found its true calling. What had been a playful night out became a force for good, with proceeds going to our first beneficiary, the Lung Cancer Association. Guided by our Opening Spell, "The Witches Walk shall never die!", the coven has given back every year since.

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In 2022, we formally became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Today, the Walk has grown into a nationally recognized charity festival, drawing more than 15,000 attendees from 26 states, 5 countries, and 83 Ohio cities to Sandusky, Halloween Capital of Ohio®. We are proud to be named a USA Today Best Halloween Festival.

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At the heart of it all is the Witches' Dance. Each year, friends, families, neighbors, and visitors stand shoulder to shoulder and move as one. It is more than choreography. It is proof that when a community comes together, it creates something bigger than any one of us.

And the magic doesn't end there. Every VIP ticket includes entry into our $5,000 Grand Prize raffle, exclusive Cauldron Circuit perks, and an unforgettable night of community celebration.

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In 2025, that spirit made history. The Sandusky Witches Walk® earned two Guinness World Records® titles in Sandusky, Halloween Capital of Ohio®:

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  • Largest Witch Costume Contest: 970 participants (Record ID: 777117)

  • Largest Witches' Dance: 727 participants (Record ID: 774962)

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These records belong not just to our coven, but to every person who laced up their boots and joined the circle.

 

In 2026, we celebrate our 15th Anniversary of giving back.

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Our Mission

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The Sandusky Witches Walk® raises funds to support and strengthen every generation in our community. We focus on:

  • Empowering youth through education, enrichment, and safe community programs

  • Honoring seniors, the trailblazers who built the foundation we stand on

  • Connecting generations to build lasting community pride and unity

Each year, we contribute tens of thousands of dollars to local organizations, including:

  • Kiwanis Club: advancing childhood literacy

  • Sandusky After School Programs (Rec Center and The Center): providing safe, enriching activities for local youth

  • CASA of Erie County: standing up for children in the court system

  • Erie County Senior Center: enriching the lives of local seniors

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This year, our mission grows further through partnerships with local high schools to support graduation initiatives and open pathways for Sandusky's next generation of leaders.

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Our Commitment

We believe in a Sandusky where every generation is valued, supported, and connected. Through celebration, creativity, and community-driven fundraising, the Sandusky Witches’ Walk™ continues to turn magical moments into meaningful impact.

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Join us as we uplift our youth, honor our elders, strengthen our community, and keep the magic alive — one bewitching step at a time.

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