For many, dressing themselves and their homes for Halloween are some of the most exciting activities of the year. For instance, homes become haunted houses, yards become makeshift graves (thanks to props), sugary goodies are dispersed to the wee ones and parties are thrown to entertain the masses--all while disguised in costume. So as we wait for the return of this year’s ghouls and goblins, let’s see what other themed events are popping up around Tucson.
Reid Park Zoo Howl-o-ween-Oct 23 and Oct 24 only
What better way to enjoy the pre-Halloween nights than trick-or-treating at the zoo. Test your costume’s fear factor early and walk around the zoo, which will be decked out in festive lights, and adorned with costumed characters and animals. A note, this year’s extravaganza will not have a “scary area,” making it fun for everyone. www.tucsonzoo.org
13 Nights of Halloween-Magic Carpet Chaos at the Haunted Ruins-through Oct 30
Geared for kids of all ages, Valley of the Moon creates a mystical Halloween adventure for children. Armed with nothing more than a magic stone, kids go in search of saving the Magic Carpet land from the genie. www.tucsonvalleyofthemoon.com
Fall Pumpkin Festival-through Oct. 31
Spend the day with family and friends picking apples and pears before taking a hayride to Aunt Annie’s very orange pumpkin patch. There, pick the pumpkin of your choice and be ready to create a scary carving in preparation of All Hallow’s Eve. www.appleannies.com
Old Tucson Studio’s-through Oct. 31
Upping this year’s fear factor, Old Tucson Studios is picking up right where it left off last year chronicling the delusions and dysfunctions of Dr. Jebediah Hyde and his reign over the town of Nightfall. Walk among the town’s dead, as you go in search of the doc.—but remember to enter at your own risk. www.nightfallaz.com
Buckelew Farm’s Terror in the Corn-through Oct. 31
Yes, there are haunted houses, but haunted mazes? This year’s corn maze adds more twists and turns, props and live actors that will leave you trembling with fear. Give it a go—if you dare. www.buckelewfarm.com
Scarecrows in the Garden-through Nov. 30
The Tucson Botanical Garden has teamed up with local businesses on showcasing their talent in creating scarecrows. Yup, that’s right. Each scarecrow helps to line the pathways of the gardens, adding a different colorful creation that’s on display. Dare to be dazzled. www.tucsonbotanical.org
