Founded and run by Del Howison and his wife Sue, Burbank, California’s Dark Delicacies has been a staple of the California horror scene for many years, a place where horror fans and creators come together to shop, hang out, and talk horror. The all-horror independent book and gift store first opened up in 1994, and it’s still going strong to this day.

But Del and Sue need your help to make sure that doesn’t change. They explain over on Go Fund Me, where they’re pooling dollars to “keep the home of horror alive”…

“On December 3, 1994 my wife, Sue, and I opened Dark Delicacies, the original all-horror independent book and gift store in the United States. Located in Burbank, California, we soon became recognized as the “home of horror.” We are known, not just locally, but around the world for our weekly signings and events where fans are able to mingle with their favorite writers, directors, actors, composers, among so many others. Our customers, as well as the amazing artists who have signed at the store, are family; many of whom have been with us since the beginning of this wonderful dark ride. One of our greatest joys has been giving back, by sponsoring and hosting numerous charity events for both our two and four-legged friends. We are very proud of the “people of horror,” whose support and generosity have helped so many. 

We knew we would never become rich running the store, and that was okay. We just wanted to be able to do something we loved and be a part of the community we cherished. Unfortunately, like so many other places, the landscape in Burbank is changing. Rents have skyrocketed, and many of the unique stores that put the area on the map have been forced to move or close their doors altogether. This little neck of the woods is so beloved, a Save Magnolia Park campaign and video were created.  

With our lease up in May, Sue and I thought it was the end of our brick and mortar store. We resigned ourselves to the fact that we would be forced to close, just shy of our 25th anniversary. We were heartbroken. Then, a store front around the corner became available. A possible new location, coupled with all the people who wrote and stopped by asking us to stay in business, made Sue and I realize we weren’t ready to go quietly into the night. Although we may be a little more tired at the end of the day than when we first opened, our passion is still the same. We want to continue offering a place for people to drop by and hang out for a while, meet up with friends and fiends or make news ones. 

Our escalating rent over the last few years created an enormous financial strain. Some days we were just happy to be able to keep our lights on. Moves are expensive and this one is no exception. So, we are asking for a little help in making a resurrection possible. Anything you can give to help keep the crypt open will be greatly appreciated. We know times are tough, so if you can’t, don’t sweat it. Promise to still venture on in. After all you’re one of us.”

At the time of writing this article, 450 horror fans have come together to raise over $25,000 for the fund, just short of the $30,000 goal. Head over to Go Fund Me to pitch in!