Check out some of these events to get you in the Halloween spirit
When the gourds start emerging on store shelves and the hardware store breaks out the mums, it’s officially fall, and for many enthusiasts, it’s time to revel in all things Halloween.
Like many Western traditions, Halloween’s roots are muddled between pagan and Christian rituals. During the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints during the eighth century. All Saints Day began to incorporate some of the celebratory practices of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween. Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving Jack-o-lanterns, wearing costumes and yes, bonfires may be involved.
Celebrate the holiday any which way by checking out these Halloween happenings around the Miami Valley:
First Friday
Oct. 7, Downtown Dayton
Kicking off spooky season is First Friday activities, taking place in downtown Dayton and other surrounding area neighborhoods. Shop special sales, including Halloween decor and other home goods from dozens of local businesses. Stop by one of the locally owned restaurants for dinner, and don’t skimp on the garlic! Hours: 5-10 p.m. Oct. 7 at various locations.
11th Annual Operation Pumpkin & Art Festival
Oct. 7-9, Hamilton
Operation Pumpkin – Pumpkin and Art Festival provides family fun during October from October 7 through 9. See giant pumpkins, music entertainment, more than 100 art and craft vendors and enjoy festival food. Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Oct. 7 and Oct. 8 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 9. The main road is High Street with some side streets included. Parking garage nearby. operation-pumpkin.org
2nd Annual Monsters Bash
Oct. 8, Xenia
Let that inner child loose and don Halloween apparel for a chance to win cash prizes for best-dressed adult and child. Shop Halloween vendors as well as artisan and craft booths, all Halloween and/or monster-related. A live DJ and live music round out the experience. Hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Head to 60 and 68 (South Detroit Street), Xenia. https://allevents.in/xenia/2nd-annual-monsters-bash/200022972097239
Vampires Ball
Oct. 8, Dayton, Brightside Music & Event Venue
Clash Dayton launches its inaugural Vampires Ball on Oct. 8. The night’s entertainment includes fire dancers, burlesque performers, music by Matt Freeman, Curtastrophe, Halicon and Dark Machine Nation. Tarot and Oracle readings by Maria Shell. Vampire themed costume contest for best couple and single vampire. Hours: 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Minimum donation of $13 at the door. Funds will be distributed between entertainers and The Noble Circle charity.
Downtown Fairborn Halloween Festival
Oct. 14-16, Fairborn
Anchored by the celebrated Foy’s Costume Shop in downtown Fairborn, the Fairborn Chamber of Commerce presents the annual Halloween Festival. Enjoy costume contests, live music, merchants and more during the three-day celebration. Hours: 4-11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Masquerage
Oct. 22, Dayton
Equitas Health, a regional nonprofit community healthcare system, organizes the annual “party of parties for a cause,” which has raised millions in support of HIV/AIDS programs and other healthcare initiatives focusing on the LGBTQ+ community. Featuring live performances by Dayton’s own Rubi Girls. Attendees are requested to wear a mask or some other kind of decorative face coverings, and all are invited to dress to the theme — “Into Wonderland.” Tickets: $50 general admission, $100 Red Ribbon Lounge VIP.
Hometown Halloween
Oct. 29, Troy
Head to downtown Troy for a family-friendly morning or fun! Festivities begin at 9 a.m. with a costume contest and costume parade hosted by the Troy Noon Optimists in the parking lot of the Hobart Government building. Beginning at 10 a.m., participants will be able to trick or treat with downtown merchants. Hours: 9 a.m. to noon; free.
Hauntfest
Oct. 29, Dayton
Celebrating 36 years of spooky fun, this Oregon District event generates important operating revenue for its small business owners. Bring the kids early on for costume contests and family-friendly fun, including live music. Event begins at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $10.
