Hillsborough County events can help you scare up your Halloween spirit
A touch of fall is in the air. And that means things that go bump in the night are creeping our way! Hillsborough County has a variety of activities for everyone from children to adults to skateboarders.
But with all the scariness, we also want residents to remain safe. When it's time for jack-o-lanterns, spooky costumes, and bags heaped full of candy, it's wise to be wary of danger lurking in the most likely places. A few quick tips:
- Plan costumes that are bright and easy to see. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
- Make sure shoes fit well and costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement, or contact with flames.
- Look for "flame resistant" on costumes, wigs, and accessories.
- Make sure masks have big enough holes to see out.
- Learn other safety tips provided by 10 health departments throughout West Central Florida, including the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County.
Weekend of Oct. 7-9
- Fall Spooktacular
Includes food, games, a costume parade, and prizes. Guests are encouraged to dress up in family-friendly costumes and enjoy the festivities.
Saturday, Oct. 8, Brandon Park & Recreation Center, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m
- Halloween Ball for All
Adults with disabilities are invited to put on their best Halloween costume and hit the dance floor with Parks & Recreation.
Friday, Oct. 14, Brandon Park & Recreation Center, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Spooky and Not-so-spooky Night Hikes
Camp Bayou Nature Preserve & Outdoor Learning Center in Ruskin will hold four night hikes with two levels of "spookiness". For our younger kids, or those not looking for scares, there is the "Native Creatures of the Night" hikes, and for those who are looking for some thrills and chills, check out the "Tales of Ghosts and Cryptids" hike. Both hikes end with a campfire and s'mores. There is a fee of $5 per participant, and participation is limited, so registration is required.
- Oct. 14 and Oct. 15 - Native Creatures of the Night from 6 to 7 p.m.
- Oct. 14 and Oct. 15 - Tales of Ghosts and Cryptids from 7 to 8 p.m.
- Howl-N-Growl
Third annual K-9 costume contest all Carrollwood Village Park. Prize categories include Spookiest, Most Original, Best Presentation, K-9/Human Tandem, and overall "Beast" in Show.
Saturday Oct. 15, Carrollwood Village Park, 8 to 11 a.m.
- Movies in the Park
Free, family-fun event to enjoy a night under the stars and watch some of your favorite family movies. Movies begin at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 21, "Halloween Town," Westchase Park & Recreation Center - Bring your own pumpkin to paint before the movie! Paint provided.
- Trunk or Treat
Come and join us for costume contests, decorated trunk contests, free giveaways, and candy .
- Friday, Oct. 28, Ruskin Park & Recreation Center, 6 to 9 p.m. - The Ruskin Trunk or Treat also includes the movie "Nightmare Before Christmas," starting at 7:30 p.m., and you can also walk our Scary Trail!
- Friday, Oct. 28, Mango Recreation Center, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
- Friday, Oct. 28, Northdale Recreation Center, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
- Halloween Skate Jam
Grab your board and compete against other skaters in the spooktacular Halloween Skate Jam! Best Trick Contest, Coffin Race, and Best Costume Contest.
All of the Skate Jams take place on Saturday, Oct. 29:
- Carrollwood Village Skate Park from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
- Apollo Beach Skate Park from 7 to 8 p.m.
- Jackson Springs Skate Park from 6 to 8 p.m.
- Providence Skate Park from 5 to 8 p.m.
Original source can be found here.
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