Thrills, chills & candy-filled sacks as Halloween appears out of thin air
Ready your costumes and front-porch decorations because Halloween is almost here! Whether you’re dressing up as a childhood superhero, favorite film character, historical figure or uniquely quirky something or other, the spooky season is your chance to shine. In the ghoulish spirit of All Hallows’ Eve, here’s a look at some chillingly fun events fit for the whole family.
Kenyon Noble’s annual Pumpkin Carving Contest will take place Saturday, October 19th at all three of its locations in Bozeman, Belgrade and Livingston from 11am–1pm. Pick out a pumpkin and spend a fun-filled afternoon getting your jack-o’-lantern ready to scare trick-or-treaters. There will be awesome prizes for first, second and third place winners in each age group (0-5, 6-9 and 10-12), to be determined by contest judges near the end of the event. This community event is FREE for both competitors and spectators, but arrive early! Limited pumpkins available. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. Kenyon Noble staff will also be dressed up, to be voted on by attending kiddos.
On Friday and Saturday, October 25th and 26th, the always-popular Anderson School Haunted House returns with Forest of Terror! Every year, the 8th graders transform the Little Red Schoolhouse into a terrifyingly fun adventure for those who dare to visit. Lights will be ON from 5:30–6:30pm for little ones and the faint of heart. Early evening admission is $5 per person. Lights will be OFF from 7–10pm with plenty of frights! General admission is $8. Fast Pass tickets also available for $15, or skip the line altogether for $30. This is an annual fundraiser for Anderson’s 8th grade class trip to Washington, D.C. Forest of Terror can be found just 5 miles south of Huffine off Cottonwood Rd. at the Little Red Schoolhouse.
Museum of the Rockies’ “grossest” annual tradition also falls on Oct. 26th, the Family Grossology Halloween Party from 2–5pm. Come in costume to see disgusting science, make some icky crafts, and check out what your scabs look like on the big screen. Spooky stories and goody bags make this the perfect family costume party for all “mad scientists”! This event is included with Museum admission.
Now for some candy collection on the day of! Get an early start with Bozeman Health Trick-or-Treating on Thursday, October 31st from 3–5pm. Show off your costumes in the all-ages haunted hallway, and stay warm while you fill up your pillow cases with your friends and siblings! Candy and non-food treats will be available. Parking may be found in
Lot C.
Also an option, ‘round the troops and hit Main for some Downtown Bozeman Trick-or-Treating from 4–6pm. Costumed kids will be able to enjoy the brisk outdoors for a little Halloween fun and safely gather goodies at over 150 businesses! Hot drinks will be available outside the Downtown Visitor’s Center at 8 E Main. This free event will go on rain, snow or shine.
And just across town, the annual Malloween Trick-or-Treat event takes over Gallatin Valley Mall from 5–7pm. Kids can enjoy a safe and warm indoor trick-or-treating. Parade through the mall in costume visiting participating retailers and enjoy a great selection of candy. Meet Champ, take free family photos, and plenty of treats while staying warm and dry!
Remember to stay safe this Halloween, whether you’re a youthful trick-or-treater or fiend for frights. Happy haunting, Bozeman! •
