As the days grow shorter and the shadows longer, thoughts of the darker holiday may start creeping into the minds of Battlefordians.
If the thrills and chills of Halloween have faded somewhat for those too old to go door to door in search of treats, a spooktacular event is headed this way that's sure to put the fright back into the night.
Oct. 28, the Western Development Museum will be hosting its first-ever Fright Night.
The event will kick off with creepy cocktails at 6 p.m., followed by a freaky feast and haunted village tours.
Shirley Maze, rentals manager, said she anticipates the tickets, which can be purchased only in advance, will go quickly.
"There is a maximum of 100 tickets," she said. "And that is it."
Maze said the idea of hosting an adult Halloween event had been bounced around for a number years.
"We've got a bit more staff now, so we decided to follow through on it," said Maze.
Although she didn't want to give away any of the spooky surprises in store, Maze did indicate the haunted village tours would be conducted in small groups to heighten the fear factor.
"Everything will be decorated and served in a Halloween style," she said, adding there would be prizes awarded for the best costumes, although costumes are not mandatory.
The cost for the event is $25 and tickets can be purchased at the museum or by calling 445-8033. Any proceeds from the event will go towards the museum's building and program improvements. Anyone interested in volunteering for the event can also call 445-8033.
Although Fright Night is strictly for adults, children need not despair, as the 15th annual Great Pumpkin Masquerade and Family Dance is coming to haunt the dreams of little candy-craving ghouls.
The family-friendly event will be held at the Western Development Museum Oct. 23 and starts at 6 p.m.
Regular museum admission will be charged for the event, which features costume parades, games, crafts, a dance, prizes for costumes, a pumpkin gallery and much more.
"There's so many activities for the whole family," said Maze. "We have all kinds of spooky treats for them."
The North Battleford Comprehensive High School will also be putting on a haunted sideshow not for the faint of heart.
For more information, or to volunteer for the event, call the WDM at 445-8033.
