Halloween in New Orleans just got a major upgrade, thanks to Louellen Berger and her legendary Skeleton House NOLA. For over 20 years, Berger has been transforming her home on the corner of St. Charles and State Street into a Halloween masterpiece, complete with dozens of cleverly posed skeletons. But this year, the 70-something New Orleans resident went all out with a Taylor Swift-inspired theme called "Terror Swift"—and it's taken the internet by storm.
Louellen & Darryl Berger, greeting trick-or-treaters in 2023.
SOURCE: @skeletonhousenola
The tradition began two decades ago when Berger spotted a fallen branch and decided to place a skeleton on it. One skeleton led to two, then three, each with a unique pose and a punny name. Today, her collection has grown into a full-blown spectacle, attracting thousands of visitors every Halloween season. Her son even created an Instagram account named @skeletonhousenola to share the spooky scenes with the wider community. "Eventually, our local newspaper named the skeleton in the tree 'Lazy Bones,'" Berger shares, "and that inspired me to name all the skeletons in playful poses."
This year, Berger's theme was a no-brainer, thanks to some family inspiration. With Taylor Swift's Eras Tour adding New Orleans to its schedule, her grandkids—ranging from age 3 to 12—suggested turning the skeleton display into a Taylor Swift wonderland. Berger really liked the idea of using costume sketches from her 12-year-old granddaughter as the blueprint for her designs. Each skeleton reflects a different Swift "era," from Swift's Red album look, complete with a signature 22 hat, to a nod to Swift's boyfriend, Travis Kelce. One skeleton even rocks a costume inspired by Swift's Reputation tour leotard, and the kids created friendship bracelets for the skeletons, adding a playful touch to the scene.
Travis Kelce-inspired skeleton at the "Terror Swift" Themed Skeleton House NOLA.
SOURCE: People
Creating these costumes wasn't just a quick project—Berger spent six weeks repurposing old gymnastics outfits and clothing from her family to outfit each skeleton in true Swiftie style. Her granddaughter even convinced her to watch Miss Americana, Taylor Swift's documentary, turning Berger into a budding Swiftie herself. "I know about 13 of her songs now," Berger laughs. "My granddaughter filled me in on all these expressions I'd never heard before!"
On Halloween night, Berger's house isn't just for show; it's a full-on Halloween experience. While she doesn't hand out candy, she does distribute 4,000 light-up necklaces featuring a caricature of Skeleton House NOLA. This year, she's doubling down on the Taylor Swift theme, also handing out friendship bracelets to match her decorations. "Every year, we run out and have to close up around 10 p.m.," Berger says, explaining why she prepared extra supplies this time.
The house has become such a staple in New Orleans that it's now a stop on local tour bus routes, drawing not only families and Halloween fans but also visitors from nursing homes and retirement communities. "Seeing the joy on people's faces is just mind-blowing," Berger says. "Some visitors hobble out of the vans, and it brings tears to my eyes to see their reactions. Halloween is a joy that knows no age limit."
Taylor Swift-themed skeletons representing different eras are seen on display at the Skeleton House NOLA
SOURCE: People
For Berger, Halloween has always been about freedom, fun, and a bit of community spirit. Growing up, she adored the holiday for the chance to dress up and roam her neighborhood with friends. "Our parents stayed at the door handing out candy while we explored the whole neighborhood. It was fabulous—always fun, never any issues," she recalls. Over the years, she's become known as the "crazy woman" with the Halloween decorations, and she wouldn't have it any other way.
As her son Ryan says, "While my mom brings back many of the skeletons year after year, she always likes adding new ones that reflect what's current and fun. And what's more current than Taylor Swift?" With her "Terror Swift" theme, Berger has made sure this year's display is one for the books, perfectly timed to Swift's arrival in New Orleans.
With a bit of creativity, a lot of family love, and a dash of Taylor Swift magic, Skeleton House NOLA has once again become the talk of the town, showing that Halloween fun doesn't have to be spooky—it can be stylish, too.
Also Read: Taylor Swift Shares Fun Video Featuring GloRilla Song and Olivia the Cat
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