Tag Archives: Halloween

Ease on down Wyoming’s Pumpkin Path for all kinds of goodies, fun

September 28, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Upcoming Eventscostumes, Halloween, Kostume Room, Lamar Park, Pumpkin Path, WyomingJoanne

Believe it or not it is almost time for every ghost, goblin, and superhero — big or small — to ready their favorite attire in preparation for one of the City of Wyoming’s most popular events: the Pumpkin Path.

Yes, the annual activity that pretty much kicks of the haunting season in the city is set for Saturday, Oct. 8, at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter SW. The event is from 4 to 6 p.m.

“We have about 70 to 80 businesses attending who hand out a variety of items, candy, trinkets, coupons,” said Wyoming Recreation Programer Valarie Mester. “We encourage them to bring something for the kids as well as the adults because adults like things too.”

Because this event is free and does not require any registration, Mester said the department can only estimate on the number of people in attendance, which in the past has been around 7,000 people with about 2,000 – 3,000 being children.

“Most people do come in costume,” Mester said. “It is not required, but it is an opportunity to wear them earlier in the season.”

And perhaps no one knows costumes better than Gayle Vaartjes of Wyoming’s Kostume Room, 835 36th St. SW.

“Star Wars is going to be big this year,” Vaartjes said, adding that this is because of last Christmas’s release of Star Wars:The Force Awakens. “When there is a movie involved, it usually indicates if the costume is going to be popular.”

Another hit is the recently released Suicide Squad, with Harley Quinn, The Joker, and Deadshot being the most popular, she said.

“I have the Batman from the other moves and the other Jokers from the other movies as well,” Vaartjes said. “We have everything.”

For children, Vaartjes said Star Wars will be big along with the princesses and ninjas as well as the classics such as witches and ghosts.

“There are people who love Halloween,” Vaartjes said. “Just like there are some people who love Christmas and it’s their holiday and it’s a time to be someone else and just be creative.”

With the growth of the Pumpkin Path over the years, it is pretty apparent people do love the Halloween season. The Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department has been hosting the Pumpkin Path for about 13 years. “They used to host a Halloween party and that started to have a decline in attendance, so staff began to think about what else they could do,” Mester said. “Something that was out-of-the-box.”

Or at least down the path as patrons travel a paved loop through Lamar Park lined with various businesses stocked with treats to handout. Participating businesses can compete for such awards as most spirited, best costume, and best decorated pumpkin, which are judged by members of the teen council.

“It’s pretty neat,” Mester said. “We have had some pretty cool costumes over the years.”

A few tips Mester offered for those planning to attend:

The entrance to the free event parking is located on Byron Center Ave near where it intersects with Chicago Drive.

You do not need to arrive at 4 p.m. to participate. Actually, Mester said they have the first group that comes around 4 p.m. and they go through with usually a couple of more waves who come through after that. “So arriving around 5 p.m. is fine.”

The Pumpkin Path opens at 4 p.m. and not a second sooner.

For more information on this and other events hosted by the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, visit their website.

Get your ‘boo’ on at Niles Scream Park

September 15, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming EventsBoo, entertainment, Halloween, Niles Scream ParkJoanne

The nationally renowned Niles Scream Park is ready to officially start autumn by scaring the “yell” out of you with six different haunted attractions. This year marks the 43rd consecutive year of their annual fright festival. The gates will squeak open on Friday, Sept. 16. Beginning in October, the Park will be open all weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) plus Monday, October 31st.

Celebrity guest, Eileen Dietz, will visit the Park on Friday, Sept. 30 and Saturday, Oct. 1. Ms Dietz played the demon in the thriller classic The Exorcist. She will appear on the midway to sign autographs and be available for pictures. For full details on her visit, please go to the website.

The Niles Scream Park is not just scary, it is considered by many to be one of the top haunted attractions in the country. Certainly one of the largest, the Niles Scream Park offers 44 acres of blood-curdling fear! Unlike other haunted houses, Niles rebuilds each room of all three interior haunted houses each year to provide participants with completely new and unique shows. The professionally designed sets and ingenious scare-tactics led the Niles Scream Park to be recognized by Haunted Attraction Magazine as one of the “Top 31 Must-See Haunted Attractions” nationwide for the last three years running.

For those with the courage to tour all six attractions, here is the line-up for 2016:

Niles Haunted House — This season the main attraction features classic horror films from the 1930s. With over 100 possible routes, there is no telling just how final the final the act will be.
Krampus: A Christmas Curse — From German folklore comes Krampus, the evil horned helper of St. Nicholas. Naughty or nice, you may be on Krampus’ list this year as you tour this new attraction.
Cabin 13 — In 1962, the bodies of a group of friends staying in Cabin 13 were found scattered across the back woods. Every year courageous (or foolhardy) students attempt to stay a night in the same woods. Some never return to tell the tale of the Cabin 13 killer.
The Field of Screams — Considered one of the most popular attractions, even a GPS won’t help you find your way of out this outdoor maze.
The Dark Terror-tory Haunted Hayride — With a new route and new sets, this Fall ride through the woods will have puzzling mysteries, intense action and unimaginable creatures.
Zendor Presents: Murphy’s Law — A stage show where if something can go wrong, it will.

An improved midway will feature old favorites like “Fry Freddy” and the “X-terminator.” Back by popular demand, the “Scream Machine,” where you get to pick the next victim, and the popular buried alive simulator–the “Last Ride.” The midway also features several food concessions that provide enough variety to satisfy everyone’s cravings. The Gore Store will let you shop till you drop for the latest Halloween paraphernalia.

The Niles Scream Park is located on Mayflower Road, south of Niles-Buchanan Road just off Exit 5 of the US 31 Bypass. More information on prices, times and dates of operation can be obtained by visiting the Niles Scream Park website here or calling 269.687.FEAR.

Trunk or Treat 2015 brings Seasons Treatings

November 4, 2015Citizen Journalism, HolidaysBrett Wiesenauer, City of Kentwood, Halloween, Halloween West Michigan, Kent District Library, Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department, Mayor of Kentwood, Trunk or TreatJoanne

On the morn of October 24th, a truckload of cute ghouls and characters appeared outside the Kentwood Public Works Garage. They shambled and moved in unison with a hunger, for seasonal treats. It was Halloween time and that meant Trunk or Treat had arrived.

The event was put on by Kentwood Parks and Recreation in association with many local organizations including Kent District Library, the Fun Spot, and the local police and fire departments, of course.

The event had much to offer for all in attendance. There were the treats, of course, but also warm cider and donuts for sale, a bouncy castle, a clownish DJ playing assorted holiday favorites like “Thriller” and the “Addams Family Theme”, and tractor rides on the way out.

In attendance that crisp morning was Mayor Stephen Kepley, or rather, Mr. President. Dressed in deluxe Abe Lincoln attire, the mayor was most gracious in handing out treats and goodie bags for the festive multitudes. Asked afterwards about his thoughts on this year’s event, “It was a really great turnout. We only expected around eight-hundred or a thousand, but I surmise we at least doubled that estimate this morning.”

There had been a warning of rain that morning, so the event had actually been moved from its original location to an indoor locale, just in case the weather made a turn.

Representing the police department, Officer J. Morningstar dispensed candy to passing minions, ninjas, superheroes, and even a cupcake!

Attendance proved so numerous that halfway into the two-hour showcase, a supply run had to be made, as sweets were in such high demand!

A miniature horse was also in attendance, representing Karin’s Horse Connection, a group who specializes in equestrian riding as well as vaulting, gymnastics on top of moving horses.

‘Twas a fantastic event that got the community involved and cemented a genuine Halloween atmosphere in the township. Good job, Kentwood Parks and Rec.

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Halloween Fun in West Michigan: Northern Michigan

October 23, 2015Local Business, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Travel, Upcoming EventsChateau Chantal, Crystal Mountain Spooktacular Saturdays, Halloween, Mackinac Island, Northern Michigan, Shorts Brewing Company, St. Ignace, Traverse CityJoanne

There is so much to do in West Michigan to kick off the Halloween fun! This three part series will dive into different Fall and Halloween activities all throughout the West side of this Marvelous State. Northern West Michigan finishes the series. If you missed part one or part two on Southern Michigan and Central Michigan, be sure not to let it Fall to the wayside!

As Halloween approaches, all the little ghouls and goblins have one thing on their minds: Trick-or-Treating! To keep the kids’ minds off candy just a bit longer, kick off your Halloween fun early in West Michigan! Whether it’s family fun at the corn maze, or Halloween-themed pub crawls for the grown up ghouls, there are plenty of Halloween activities for all ages around West Michigan to get you in a Halloween mood!

Northern Halloween Fun in West Michigan

Chateau Chantal’s Naughty Apple Hard Cider

For those adults looking to pair their Halloween fun with a seasonal brew, you’ll want to check out Chateau Chantal’s Naughty Apple Hard Cider. Their brand new & wonderfully tantalizing Naughty Apple Hard Cider is fermented from a duo of Michigan Golden Delicious & Gala apples. Slightly sweet, serve chilled. Purchase in their tasting room or online at the Chateau Chantal web store.

While you’re visiting Chateau Chantal, enjoy a beautiful & elegant 7-course meal perfectly paired alongside a Chateau Chantal wine & created by the talented in-house chef. Learn from their knowledgeable staff about food & wine pairings while savoring exquisite creations & making new friends. Bring an eager palate, an inquisitive mind & an empty stomach! Your experience begins with an informative winery tour at 6pm with dinner seating in the winery’s beautiful dining room, with panoramic views of both bays, at 6:30pm. Seating is limited so book yours before it’s too late! Reservations & payment are required at least a day in advance. Reserve online here or call (231) 223-4110.

Short’s Brewing Company

Short’s Brewing Company in Bellaire is hosting a Halloween Party on October 31st. The Private Stache bottle release will start at 11:00 am with other events like the costume contest taking place in the evening. You’ll also get to enjoy Joe Hertler & the Rainbow Seekers play live on the pub stage (beginning at 9:00 pm), spooky food specials, a costume contest, Halloween themed draft beer, and a Bourbon Evil Urges Private Stache bottle release.

St. Ignace

St. Ignace puts a unique spin on Halloween fun at the annual St. Ignace Trunk or Treat on October 24, 2015. Parents decorate their ghoulish vehicles and dispense candy to those in costume directly from the trunk of the car. It’s tailgating for Halloween! Afterward, ride the hay wagon to the Haunted Woods and take a tour if you’re brave enough, or simply enjoy games and music. It all starts at the lot behind the Quality Inn. Prizes awarded for best costume, scariest costume and most original costume. Everyone’s invited!

Crystal Mountain Spooktacular Saturdays

Take in the autumn air during Spooktacular Saturdays on October 24th at Crystal Mountain. The whole family is sure to have a good time with activities for all ages to enjoy. Take advantage of specialty Fun Pass prices that provide a bundle of activities at a discounted rate. Participate in apple bobbing, wagon rides, face painting, and unlimited marshmallows at the campfire! Take in the leaves from the chairlift, or carve pumpkins to get into the Halloween mood. Bring your best costume for the Costume Parade at 5pm, with free entry and candy for all participants! If you’re feeling brave, head over to the Haunted Forest at the end of the night (recommended for ages nine and up).

Downtown Traverse City

October closes with a parade of little ghosts and goblins as Downtown Traverse City hosts costume clad children and their parents to trick or treat at participating stores throughout the Downtown area on Halloween. The event kicks off at 3:30 until 5 pm. For more information call (231) 922-2050 or visit www.downtowntc.com. While you’re there, watch out for running zombies, as the Zombie Run takes place that morning!

Mackinac Island

In the Celtic world, Samhain marks the end of summer and the beginning of the new year and a time to commemorate the souls of the blessed dead. With the rise of Christianity, it was changed to Halloween and remains a joyous time of family reunion.

On Mackinac Island, they celebrate both traditions with their Halloween Weekend October 23rd through 25th. Have fun with the kids Trick or Treating downtown, take the Haunts of Mackinac Tour and then gear up for some great grown up Halloween parties at the downtown pubs. This is also the time of year that the Island shops work hard to clear out their inventory with great discounts and sales. Be sure to browse on Main Street, Market Street and at the shops at Grand Hotel. This makes a perfect weekend to skip out on Black Friday and get a head start on holiday shopping.

For up to the day room availability, just call the Tourism Bureau 906.847.3783, and they hope to see you join in their tradition to pull out all the stops and celebrate the end of the Island’s main season.

‘Sleepy Hollow, a Musical Tale’ puts a modern spin on a spooky classic Oct. 23-Nov. 1

October 19, 2015Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Upcoming EventsGR Civic Theatre, Halloween, Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Sleepy Hollow, stage play, youth musicalJoanne

By: Victoria Mullen

A haunting classic has been updated and set to music. With a limited run from October 23-November 1, the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre (GRCT) presents ‘Sleepy Hollow, a Musical Tale.’ The audience will find a lot to love about this stage play as it combines comedy, drama, and music.

Based on Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow—originally published in 1819 with a collection of other short stories—the stage play, music and lyrics by Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Freedman promises fun for everyone. Tickets are $10-$16.

“Our cast has approached this show as a blend between a Tim Burton film and a Scooby-Doo episode,” said Associate Director Allyson Paris. “The music in this play is outstanding, filled with modern pop-themed songs. Families can expect to see some of the most talented young people in West Michigan singing and dancing. You will be singing and dancing too!”

Set in New York within a 1790s Dutch settlement—nicknamed ‘Sleepy Hollow’—the original story’s protagonist is Ichabod Crane, a schoolteacher who meets up with the Headless Horseman after unsuccessfully proposing to a young lady. The Headless Horseman chases Crane through a haunted forest, only to be stymied by the river—ghosts cannot cross water. Instead, the horseman takes up his severed head and throws it at Crane, hitting his face. Even after all these years, Crane’s fate remains unknown.

As legend has it, the Headless Horseman was a Hessian soldier who was killed during the Battle of White Plains in 1776. Decapitated by an American cannonball, his body was whisked away by his comrades; the remains of his shattered head were left on the battlefield. Each Halloween night, he rises as a malevolent ghost, furiously seeking his lost head. For the sake of additional gruesomeness, modern lore has the ghost riding headless with his severed head resting on the pommel of his saddle.

GRCT’s updated spin begins in the present day on Halloween night as three modern-day children find themselves thrust into the mysterious village of Sleepy Hollow, in Colonial New England. The children encounter a variety of colorful characters and even have a confrontation with the infamous Headless Horseman himself. As the children sing and dance their way through the world of the 18^th century, they find the origins for traditions that are celebrated today as they unveil the haunting allure of the Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

Recommended for children ages seven and older, Sleepy Hollow, A Musical Tale is great family fun with just a bit of a Halloween edge. Kids attending the October 31 matinee (2:00 curtain) performance are encouraged to dress in their Halloween costumes. Special treats will be given to the first 200 children.

Go here to purchase tickets or call 616.222.6650.

Haunted West Michigan

October 13, 2015Local Business, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsForest of Fear, Halloween, Haunted Houses, Haunted West Michigan, The Haunt, West Michigan HauntsJoanne

Watching a scary movie is one thing, but the real horror begins when you live it. To safely help you live the scary movie experience, the haunted houses of West Michigan have you covered! Enjoy terrifying scares as you cautiously check around every corner, making sure that there isn’t somebody – or something – following you.

Central

The Haunt

The Haunt has been generating screams for 15 years and they’re excited for another year! Their 20,000 square foot land is filled with all things scary! Expect even more Hollywood level sets, lighting, and special effects as you run from ghosts to clowns to everything in between. New features and side attractions help The Haunt continue to serve Michigan with their annual Halloween of scares!

Forest of Fear

The Forest of Fear is West Michigan’ premier outdoor haunted attraction which has been frightening and entertaining thrill-seekers of all ages for years! Located just south of Grand Rapids in Caledonia, the Forest of Fear is an interactive, self guided walk though tour through five chilling acres of haunted woods and swamps inhabited by ghosts, monsters, and other terrifying creatures. As you walk along the dimly lit and winding trails of the Forest of Fear you will face one spine-tingling jolt after another in an experience unlike any other haunted house!

South

Haunted Campus at Michigan Maritime Museum

The Haunted Campus event at the Michigan Maritime Museum takes place October 30 and October 31 from 8pm to 11pm. This event transforms the entire campus into a terrifying new locale and challenges visitors to navigate through the horror around them. This event is only for those ages 14 and up and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

If learning about ghostly spirits is more your speed, make sure to check out the Michigan’s Ghostly Beacons presentation at the Michigan Maritime Museum! Nearly two dozen lights in Michigan are rumored to be haunted by their previous keepers. The stories of these lights will entertain all ages! Dianna Stampfler, who has contributed to a plethora of publications, will present with all the proceeds benefiting the Save the Light campaign.

Haunted Trail at Stokes Homestead Farm Market

Hop on a wagon at Stokes Homestead Farm Market and take a ride on the haunted trail highlighting the history of the “Shadow Hill Asylum.” The haunted forest and apple orchard are inhabited by the patients of Shadow Hollow so watch out! They may even climb onto the wagon and try to bring you back with them!

Haunted Forest and Temple Coldwater Country CVB

Take an adventure around the Haunted Forest at Rotary Park in Coldwater! Taking place October 26, 27, 29, and 30, kids will enjoy the less scary 6pm to 7pm activities while the real scary things come out from 7pm to 9pm!

The basement of the Masonic Temple gets real scary on October 20, 21, 23, 24, 27, 28, 30, and 31! Filled with all the things that go bump in the night, don’t miss a chance to experience Halloween scares in this building that is over 140 years old.

Niles Scream Park

Offering five unique main attractions that are carefully and professionally designed, Niles Scream Park is here to scare the “yell” out of you! This years feature attraction is an homage to Steven King featuring a clown in your sewer, escaping the wrath of Johnny, and seeing first hand Carrie’s prom night! This is in addition to four other great haunted attractions that you don’t want to miss!

Haunted Adventures at Cornwell’s Turkeyville

Every weekend in October, Cornwell’s holds their family friendly Haunted Adventures from 12pm to 8pm on Saturdays and 12pm to 5pm on Sundays! Activities include a pumpkin patch, spooky hay ride, and Haunted Barn. The theme for the Haunted Barn this year is “shadows” so watch out for what is lurking about!

Haunted Forest at Covert/South Haven KOA

Enjoy two weekends of Halloween fun with Covert/South Haven KOA! On the weekends of October 2 and 9, enjoy some great family activities including trick-or-treating, a haunted forest, games, pumpkin decorating, and more! With all these great things to do, you may want to come back for both weekends!

Haunted Corn Maze & 3D Barn at Crane Orchards

Prepare yourself for Crane Orchards’ Haunted Corn Maze and 3-D Barn! The 20-acre corn maze features plenty of spooky interruptions and terrifying surprises as your navigate through it. New to this year’s fall preview is the 3-D Barn which begins at dusk to 10pm.

The Haunted Hallow at Olde World Village

The Old World Village’s largest annual event, The Haunted Hallow, is right around the corner! Supporting the regions charities, The Haunted Hallow features everything scary on a half mile trail going through the woods with over 25 scenes. All this and the Maze of Despair are set up to make sure that you are properly scared! Open every Friday and Saturday night during the month of October form 8pm to midnight. This is not recommended for those under 17.

North

Haunted Forest at Crystal Mountain

Are you brave enough to make it through Crystal Mountain’s Haunted Forest? Hang out by the fire where you’ll hear the screams surrounding the mountain. Carefully maneuver down the haunted trail and watch out for what lurks around every corner. Tickets available at the Park at Water’s Edge on October 17, 23, 24, and 30!

Haunted Trail at Grand Hotel

See the Grand Hotel as you’ve never seen it before! The weekend begins Friday, October 30 with a Welcome Reception, five-course dinner, and Haunted Trail! A scary movie will be presented Friday evening as well! Saturday includes a Bloody Mary bar, pumpkin carving contests, free admission to the Haunted Theatre downtown, and Haunted Afternoon Tea. Another five-course dinner will be served Saturday evening followed by the Grand Halloween Party! There will be live music and all beer, wine, and snacks are included at the party.

Haunts of Mackinac Island Tour at Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is going to be filled to the brim with great activities! Don’t miss the kids Trick or Treating downtown, Haunts of Mackinac Island Tour, and Halloween parties at the downtown pubs! This a great mix of family fun and grown up entertainment!

A Cornucopia of Halloween Activities Offer a Fun-filled Bounty

October 9, 2015Holidays, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsFall Activities, Halloween, Victoria MullenJoanne

‘Tis the season for really bad autumn references, and we apologize. As writers, we’re expected to be witty (or die trying).

But it’s with the spirit of sharing in mind that we’re here to tell you about several fun Halloween- and autumn-themed events. Consider it a consolation prize for the shorter days and colder nights. Heads up: These events span the spectrum of activities, from music to a Zombie Beer Fest, to hayrides… perfect for adults. And kids. And sometimes both.

In order of appearance:

Now through October 31 – Haunted Hall
Haunted Hall at Muskegon Fairgrounds, 6621 Heights Ravenna Road, Fruitport, Mich., Fri. and Sat. 7 pm. Go here for more information.

Now through November 7 – Post Family Farm Activities
The 80-acre Post Family Farm is overflowing with pumpkins, squash, gourds and more. U-pick pumpkins, hayrides, bonfires, homemade (peanut-free) pumpkin donuts, corn mazes, the list goes on. Fun Farm Days are Monday-Thursday, noon-7 pm; Friday noon-6 pm through Nov. 7. Fall Festivals are every Saturday 10 am-6 pm through October 25. 5081 Bauer Rd. Hudsonville. Call 616.669.1964 or visit the website for info.

Now through winter – Hayrides and Sleigh Rides
Fruit Ridge Hayrides and Sleigh Rides (courtesy of Zeke & Zoey, the team of Belgian draft horses), 11966 Fruit Ridge Ave Kent City. Fall hayrides* are $7/person. Call 616.887.5052 or visit the website for more info. *Hayrides are wheelchair accessible.

October 9 – Opening day of The Haunt
Celebrating 15 years of fear at 2070 Waldorf NW! New themes, the latest technology and one of the largest casts in the state. Visit the website for dates and times. General admission is $20. NOT recommended for kids under 12. Children 5 and younger will not be allowed in any attraction.

October 9-22 – ‘Drunk Stoned Brilliant Dead: The Story of the National Lampoon’
Biography/comedy. The film screens at 8 pm each evening at the UICA.

October 9-31 – ‘Forest of Fear’
Fundraiser for the Kentwood Jaycees. Are you afraid of the dark? This West Michigan haunted attraction has been entertaining thrill-seekers for over ten years. Interactive, self-guided walk through five chilling acres of haunted woods and swamps. Tickets: $15/person. Fast Pass: $5/person. Go here for dates and times. 8758 Patterson Ave. SE, Caledonia, MI.

October 10 – Music at Pyramid Scheme
Pentagram, Electric Citizen, and Satan’s Satyrs perform at the Pyramid Scheme, 68 Commerce SW, 8 pm.

October 17 – Backroads Barry County Bike Ride
Saturday from 8 am to 1:30 pm. The ride begins and ends at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, 701 W. Cloverdale Rd. Hastings. Visit the website for more info.

October 17 – Second Annual Zombie Beer Fest and Costume Contest
At the Calder Plaza, 250 Monroe Ave. NW. The fun starts at 4 pm. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winning costumes. Tickets are $39-$49. Call 616.485.6637 for more info.

October 17 – Ballpark Ale Fest
At Fifth Third Ballpark, 1-5 pm, 4500 West River Dr. NW. More than 80 craft beers will be featured.

October 20 – Meanwhile Movie, “The Exorcist”
At the Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE at 8 pm. Go here for more info.

October 22-24 and October 29-31 – Horror-themed Musical Parody: Halloween!
The Stark Turn Players’
7^th Annual Halloween Classic Horror-themed Musical Parody: Halloween! based on the 1978 John Carpenter independent thriller at Dog Story Theatre, 8 pm Oct 22-24 and 29-30; 3 pm Oct 25 & 31. 7 Jefferson SE. Tickets: $12/adults, $8/students and seniors. For more info, call 616.425.9234 or visit the website. BONUS: There’s a Halloween party and costume contest following the October 31 show!

October 24 – Bissell Howl-O-Ween Hoof and Woof
A howlin’ good time for the whole family. Get ready for an afternoon of wag-worthy fun to raise awareness for animal adoption and celebrate the special bond between dogs and families. FREE 12-3 pm, Gainey Athletic Field, 1661 East Paris Ave. SE. Go here for more info.

October 27 – Meanwhile Movie, “The Shining”
At the Wealthy Theatre, 8 pm.

October 30 – Casino Parade and Costume Contest; “Here Come the Mummies”; Photo Contest
Firekeepers Casino parade and costume contest, 7 pm. Top 10 costumes win a share of $9,750 in cash and red hot credits. 1^st place $2,000 cash and $3,000 in red hot credits. 11177 East Michigan Ave., Battle Creek, MI. Get the rules here.

“Here Come the Mummies” at Firekeepers Casino. Doors open at 8 pm, show begins at 9 pm. Purchase tickets here.

Firekeepers Photo contest Oct 30-Nov 1. Upload your best shot taken at Firekeepers for a chance to win $500 in red hot credits. Get the rules here.

October 30 – Dia de los Muertos
The Grand Rapids Main Library at 111 Library St. NE, observes the Mexican tradition “Dia de los Muertos” (Day of the Dead). Community members will honor deceased loved ones with altars that will be on display for three days at the library.

October 30 – Monster Bash
Monster Bash: Ferrysburg Fire Department, 6-8 pm, 17290 Roosevelt Rd., Ferrysburg, MI. Call 616.843.5028 for more info.

October 30 – Museum Trick or Treat – Booseum Center
Kids, come in your Halloween costumes and trick-or-Treat at the Museum. Lakeshore Museum Center, 430 W. Clay, Muskegon, 4-5 pm. Visit the website for more info.

October 30 – Glow in the Park
Glow in the Park, 7-10 pm in Beery Field, Downtown Douglas, Mich. Music, food, drink, plenty of glow-in-the-dark activities for the kids. Come in full glowing costume or get your glow on when you get there with face painting, glow balloons, black light areas, and a merchandise booth. Proceeds go to City of Douglas Halloween Fund to pay for the big parade and other Halloween activities.

October 31 – Founders Halloween Party
9 pm at Founders Brewing Co., 235 Grandville Ave SW.

October 31 – Douglas Nighttime Halloween Parade for Adults
Leave the kids with the sitter and don’t miss the rise of the Pumpkin King from the ashes at 10 pm! This event draws thousands of people from Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and Wisconsin. Get your freak on at the Halloween Parade for Adults, 9:30 pm. Downtown Douglas, 35 South Main St., Douglas. Visit the website for more info.