Halloween is one of the many holidays that get children excited, and it's easy to figure out why. From the candy to the idea of dressing up in costumes, it's a time that we all remember and have our own experiences. Times have changed, though, and the idea of allowing children to walk door to door as most of us did in the past may not be the most comforting; however, each of these events allow parent and their children to fully enjoy this boo-dacious holiday without having to worry about safety.
River Ranch of Pointe Hilton Squaw Resort: Fri., Oct. 26 (Scottsdale)
The 16th Annual Pumpkins at the Peak event offers an afternoon of great Halloween fun for the entire family to enjoy. The ranch will be transformed into a spooky mysterious place of ghouls and goblins that will capture this high- spirited holiday. A few activities to look forward to are the 20- plus crafts and carnival games, live entrainment, and snack booths full of Halloween goodies and treats.
Children are encouraged to dress in their costumes, but parents, don't let that stop you from having a little fun of your own. In addition to getting into the Halloween spirit, it's important that people always think of others--as an entrance fee, River Ranch is asking guest to eight bring two cans of food or $5 per person that will go towards St. Mary's Food Bank and their fight against hunger in the Valley.
For additional information, visit: http://www.pointehiltonsquawpeak.com
Boo! at the Phoenix Zoo & Howl-O-Ween: Tues. and Wed., Oct. 23-24 (Phoenix)
If you're looking for a great morning activity for your kids, Boo at the PHX Phoenix Zoo is the answer. While taking a stroll through the 125- acre zoo, guests can view elephants, and other animals while enjoying some very unique changes geared to celebrate Halloween.
During the visit, guests can "Pumpkin Stomp and Chomp," and enjoy pumpkins and other similar Halloween treats. Harmony Farm, has undergone a transformation into a fall festival which allows children seven and under to participate in games and all sorts of fun activities.
"Tails from the Crypt" is a new section of Boo! at the Zoo, that creates a unique scenario that includes guests in a Haunted Forest. And if you have older children, Howl-O-Ween offers three activities, from least scary to scariest, that could be really fun for brave at heart.
For additional information, visit: http://www.phoenixzoo.org
Halloween Monster Bash: Sat., Oct. 26 (Peoria)
With a variety of awesome and fun activities, the Peoria Sports Complex hosts the Halloween Monster Bash that provides a safe environment for families to take part in.
Some of most anticipated activities include: Hay Rides, Slime-Making, Laser Tag, and the Costume parade that is available for children of all ages. Similar to another event, free admission is granted to those with canned food items in support of St. Mary's and Westside Food Bank Alliance.
For additional information, visit: http://www.peoriasportscomplex.com
Salt River Fields Balloon Spooktacular: Fri. and Sat., Oct. 27 (Scottsdale)
Hands down, one of the most incredible sights this Halloween season, the 2nd Annual Salt River Fields Balloon Spooktacular offers a larger-than- life appeal that's commonly not associated to Halloween events.
For those interested in costumes, Radio Disney will be issuing out Disney prize packages, and including the chance to win four tickets to Disneyland. There is also a haunted house and Spook Trail that is set to thrill those, both young and old. After all, there has to still be some scares since it's Halloween.
In addition to having over more than 20 different types of hot air balloons on display for guests to take in, there are other great activities: as well such as a kid zone, tethered hot air balloon rides, fireworks and a ridiculous amount of candy to be passed out to those interested in t'Trick or tTreating' in a safe environment.
For additional information, visit: http://www.srfballoonfestival.com
Anthem Monster Ball/Trick or Treat for an Anthem Sweet: Fri., Oct. 26 (Anthem)
Held at the Anthem Community Center, the night is planned to provide a great time for all families to enjoy. With crafts, games, snacks and a mocktail bar as a few notable activities, the Monster Ball is topped off with prizes rewarded to best individual and family costumes.
Before you head to the ball, though, be sure to check out the "Trick or Treat for an Anthem Sweet," which allows families to trick-or-treat in a complete controlled and safe and easy way.; Dress the kids up in their costume, locate an orange pumpkin decal and trick-or-treat at participating Anthem businesses along Anthem way, Daisy Mountain, Vision Way and Venture Court.
For additional information, visit: http://www.onlineatanthem.com/event
Tempe's 35th Annual Family Halloween Carnival: Sat., Oct. 27
There's nothing better than a good ole carnival to get you in the Halloween spirit. As an alternative to trick-or-treating, the carnival will have plenty of things to keep your kids occupied. During the carnival, there will be a costume contest for all ages, face painting, games and food booths.
For additional information, visit: www.tempe.gov
Pumpkin Painting Party: Sat., Oct. 29 (Tempe)
In order to celebrate Halloween, Whole Foods Market will be putting hosting a pumpkin- painting party for children of all ages. All levels of creativity are welcomed and wanted, especially if your child has a great imagination. Mini pumpkins and supplies will be provided by Whole Foods.
For additional information and to RSVP, email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 480.456.1400
HAAWL-O-WEEN: Sat., Oct. 27 (Phoenix)
Hosted by the Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA, this event not only welcomes families but dogs too. There will be trick-or-treating, raffles and a, dog costume contest capped off with opportunities for adoption specials. So not only are you able to enjoy spending time with your family, you could also potentially find a loving, four-legged friend to welcome to a new home.
For additional information, visit: http://aawl.org/events
Doomtown: Oct. 3-31 and Kreepy Kidz Zone Oct. 26-28 and 31 (Chandler)
Rawhide will be hosting it's annual Doomtown event, and like several other Halloween- related events, it packs a great story. As the evening begins to set in, Doomtown creatures begin to lure and loom around the old town of Rawhide. From a distance, the sound of the Headless Horseman capturing two fearless cowboys brave attempt to protect guests of Rawhide echos the tricks and treats of Doomtown.
The Kreepy Kidz Zone offers even more fun for children with activities likes face painting, feeding the monster pumpkin, and a mummy race for those with high- energy and courage.
For additional information, visit: http://www.rawhide.com
