Opening in 2018, Pinpoint has become a well-known bar and has gained attraction nationwide. Owner, Bo Counts, was inspired to create “Nightmare on Block Street” after previous hobbies of being a DJ, event planner, and hosting “Beatbox Halloween Dance Parties.” Growing up and looking forward to Halloween, Bo started planning his iconic Halloween event. “Ever since I was a kid, taking part in Halloween every year, scaring kids on my front porch, going to college, and designing haunted houses, these all led me to create Nightmare,” says Counts. There are several new additions this year, along with traditional Halloween pinball machines, Halloween characters, and specialty-themed cocktails.
The popular craft cocktail bar originally held this wicked event for one weekend only, but it quickly gained its well-deserved fame. The group elongated the event to be more immersive and detailed than ever. “If you've got 30 days to play with instead? Well then let's bring the big guns out.” says Counts. This year will be the longest record event, with 6 weekends, starting September 27th and celebrating the spookiness until November 2nd.
Pinpoint Fayetteville’s main attraction is the retro pinball machines filling the underground bar. In the fall season, the pinball machines are switched out with Halloween-themed games. The collection consists of over 68 pinball machines, but only room for 22 in the bar. Some Halloween-themed games include Dracula, Frankenstein, Scooby Doo, and many more that you will have to see for yourself. The outside patio will also be decorated as a pumpkin patch/corn maze ambiance reminiscent of autumn. Oh, and a 30-foot tall pumpkin monster!
There are always scenes in Halloween thrillers where it's the ultimate party, and is expertly decorated, but where is that in real life? The Pinpoint team discovered how that only seems to exist on screen – except here. People all over the country come in and confidently say “I have never seen anything like this in real life”, which is what Pinpoint sets out to do. One goal that Pinpoint tries to meet is to always think outside of the box, by asking themselves “Man wouldn't it be cool if we…” and they end up doing it.
This year, many classics will be returning to Pinpoint including the iconic Jason character, Beetlejuice-themed tiki drinks and decorations, along with some local support from Wildflower Kitchen’s sweet treats available for purchase as well. “Halloween is a fun time to make the drinks whimsical and silly. It's a part of the theme itself. When a customer has that drink in their hand, they become a part of the experience,” Counts recalls.
There are several events held in Fayetteville to celebrate Halloween, but Pinpoint is the longest-running 21+ day event locally. The business loves to support local Halloween companies in Fayetteville. One example includes last year’s addition of a local haunted house to bring some characters to goof around with the people waiting in line. If you are a sucker for the spooky season but not horror, then Pinpoint is the place for you! Come on down to Pinpoint any day starting at 4 PM (closed Mondays). The spooky ambiance of Pinpoint is a place where Halloween is celebrated all season round.
One of the underground bar’s most popular Halloween cocktails is the Redrum blood bag. This is a red drink served in an IV bag and is always the most to be ordered. Another special feature is a partnership with Crisis Brewery IPA.