Halloween Happenings!

Ghosts and goblins and things that go bump in the night — October brings out scary, spooky, and even silly characters as Halloween events happen throughout the region.

The mildest of these gatherings can be found right in city downtowns, when businesses welcome children for mid-day trick or treating. Scare up some treats on Main Street in Fitchburg. or don a costume and join a parade in Leominster or Gardner for a family-friendly, fun event!

For a full day of Halloween activities — from a costume parade to pumpkin painting and a “haunted hounds” doggie parade, stop by Tower Hill Botanic Garden in Boylston on October 26. You’ll have a frightfully good time!

Want to enjoy the great outdoors, learn about nocturnal wildlife and share stories around a bonfire? Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary is the place you’ll want to be when the sun goes down.

How about a ghost walk? We can’t guarantee you’ll see any spirits, but the Shirley Meetinghouse welcomes families to join its Halloween Party & Ghost Walk for a ghoulish good time.

Did you know that those innocent-looking bandstands on New England town commons can be spooky spots at night? Well, maybe not every night …. but on All Hallow’s Eve — October 31 — you’re sure to hear some chilling sounds and feel a few bumps in the night when the Templeton Lions open their Haunted Gazebo on Templeton Common! Bring the kids for a treat … and maybe a trick or two.

The Lions Clubs in Athol and Hubbardston will take you for a ride — a haunted hayride —in their communities. Be prepared to have the hair on the back of your neck start tingling (although there are mild trips early in the evening for the younger set) as you roll through Silver Lake Park in Athol or Rietta Ranch in Hubbardston, under the light of the Halloween eve moon.

Check the calendar in this Guide for details on these events… and be prepared to be scared! §

Story by: Pat Gale