Treats, costumes and ghosts, oh my
Published 4:00 pm Wednesday, October 27, 2021
- Madison Finck (as Moaning Myrtle) places the sorting hat on a Trick-or-Treat on Sixth Street participant Oct. 25, 2019, at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry created at Umatilla City Hall. The 2023 event returns Friday, Oct. 27 in downtown Umatilla.
Whether it’s frightful fun, tasty treats or just hanging out with friends — as Halloween approaches there are a variety of things to do in the area.
With Halloween falling on Sunday, people have an opportunity to take in lots of events and activities throughout the weekend. From businesses and churches to bars and municipalities, numerous groups are ready to celebrate with much more than candy.
Here’s a sampling of some of the Halloween happenings (entry to activities are free, unless otherwise noted):
HERMISTON
Treats on Main and Beyond
- Friday, Oct. 29, 3-5 p.m. and 4-6 p.m.
- Downtown, Festival Street and the Hermiston Community Center
After a drive-thru version in 2020 because of COVID-19 regulations, the popular event returns this year. Little ghosts, goblins and superheroes are invited to don their costumes for safe trick-or-treating 3-5 p.m. in downtown Hermiston. Participating businesses will have signs in their windows inviting kids to come inside for a treat.
After collecting a cache of candy, head to the Hermiston Community Center, 415 S. Highway 395, 4-6 p.m. for carnival games, a haunted house, glow maze, prizes and much more.
Volunteer opportunities are plentiful to help with the event. Businesses, clubs, groups and individuals are encouraged to contact Hermiston Parks & Recreation at 541-667-5018 or parksandrec@hermiston.or.us.
Teen Halloween Party
- Friday, 2:30 p.m
- Hermiston Public Library, 235 E. Gladys Ave.
Youths in sixth through 12th grade are invited to party with their peers. The event includes snacks, games and costume competitions.
For more information, call 541-567-2882.
Fall Fest
- Sunday, 3-5 p.m.
- Hermiston Church of the Nazarene, 1520 W. Orchard Ave.
The family-friendly event features trunk-or-treating (including non-candy alternatives), hay rides and glow-in-the-dark carnival games. Volunteers are welcome.
For more information, call 541-567-3677, visit www.hermnaz.church or search Facebook.
‘Hocus Pocus’ Movie Night
- Friday, 6 p.m.
- Hermiston Athletic Club, 80903 N. Highway 395
The Halloween-themed fantasy/comedy flick “Hocus Pocus” is presented by Walt Disney Pictures and is rated PG. It’s about a curious youngster who moves to Salem, Massachusetts, where he struggles to fit in before awakening a trio of diabolical witches that were executed in the 17th century.
Entry is $5 per person, which includes water, popcorn, cotton candy and goodie bags for the kids with coloring books and treats. Bring the whole family and a blanket or chair.
To reserve a spot or for more information, call 541-256-2995.
Halloween Party
- Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Next Chapter Bookstore, 1000 S. Highway 395, Suite C
The event starts with a Halloween storytime, followed by book-themed crafts, spooky cookies from the Sugar Shack and the chance for kids to show off their Halloween costumes.
For more information, call 541-667-7080 or search Facebook.
Adult Halloween Party
- Saturday, 5 p.m.
- Cozy Corner Tavern, 198 E. Main St.
The event features live music, a costume contest and prize money. (541-567-9229).
Adult Halloween Party
- Saturday, 9 p.m.
- Midway Bar & Grill, 1750 N. First St.
A spooky good time awaits people with a costume contest, a trivia contest, food and drink specials and music with MC Sandi. (541-567-5180).
UMATILLA
Trick or Treat on Sixth Street
- Friday, 4-7 p.m.
- Sixth Street and Victory Square Park
The city of Umatilla and the Umatilla Chamber of Commerce are shaking off the cobwebs and bringing back their premiere Halloween event. The activities will begin a bit low-key — sans the flashing lights and loud sounds — for those with sensory concerns. At 4:30 p.m., the the sound will crescendo.
A trunk-or-treat at Victory Square Park will include a booth by the Umatilla Museum and Historical Society, who are hosting a pet costume contest — open to all critters, from dogs to llamas. Prizes will be awarded to the top dogs (or other animals).
After the trick-or-treating winds down, STATIK will perform 7:30-10 p.m. for a special Music in the Park.
For more information, search Facebook or call the city at 541-922-3226 or the chamber at 541-922-4825.
STANFIELD
Stanfield Fall Festival
- Saturday, 5-8 p.m.
- Bard Park
Family fun includes game booths, hay rides, a hay maze, a hot dog dinner, trunk-or-treating, a raffle ticket and a pass for the Haunted Library. A fundraiser for Stanfield Parks & Recreation, the cost is $20 (pre-pay $15 by Oct. 29 at the library, 180 W. Coe Ave., 541-449-1254).
Haunted Library
- Friday and Saturday, 6-9 p.m.,
- Stanfield Public Library, 180 W. Coe Ave.
The cost is $5 per person (or free with festival wristband)
Trunk or Treat
- Sunday, 6-8 p.m.
- Crossroads Community Church, 350 N. Sherman Ave.
Includes candy, hot cocoa and a prayer tent (541-449-3434).