Family-Friendly Event Launches Halloween Festivities

Spooktacular Fun Awaits at Minot’s Halloween Fest: A Celebration for All

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, families in Minot can look forward to a delightful Halloween celebration that promises fun, laughter, and community spirit. On Saturday, the Municipal Auditorium will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland for the third annual Halloween Fest, previously dubbed Trick or Treat at MYT. This exciting, free event caters to all ages, making sure no family feels left out during the festive season.

Last year’s event saw a remarkable turnout of over 300 enthusiastic kids, prompting organizer Tracy Parral to elevate the festivities by relocating the celebration to the more spacious auditorium. “We decided to go bigger than ever,” stated Parral, who recognized the growing popularity of the event. The move reflects not just the event’s success but also a commitment to fostering community engagement among families in Minot and neighboring areas.

Parral’s motivation for initiating Halloween Fest stems from a heartfelt desire to create an accessible and enjoyable experience for families from all walks of life. Recognizing that “everything’s so expensive,” she wanted to ensure families, regardless of their financial situation, could participate in seasonal activities without feeling the financial stress that often accompanies holiday outings.

The focus on accessibility is palpable. Parral explained that for a family of four, simply venturing to a seasonal event could quickly rack up costs, making it difficult to enjoy the festivities. “It often ends up being their one special thing,” she noted, emphasizing the emotional toll of such financial decisions on families trying to create joyful memories together.

To further enhance inclusivity, Parral has introduced a special, sensory-friendly morning session from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., specifically designed for toddlers and children with sensory sensitivities. This thoughtful addition ensures a comforting atmosphere, complete with quieter spaces, toddler-friendly snacks, and engaging activities like crafts and games that accommodate varying age groups and abilities. “We want to make sure that all children, including those with disabilities or sensory needs, can enjoy the experience comfortably,” Parral said.

During this dedicated time, children can indulge in games with prizes that cater to their age and needs, all without the overwhelming sounds of a large crowd or loud music. “I have snacks available for the toddlers, and even baby food and applesauce for parents who are concerned about candy options,” she assured. This meticulous attention to detail shows the lengths Parral is willing to go to make the event a truly welcoming experience for everyone.

From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the fun continues as the event opens up to all ages, where families can enjoy games, crafts, photo opportunities, face painting, a bounce house, and an exciting costume contest. New this year, there will also be raffles—completely free to enter—adding another layer of excitement to the festivities. “These additions help create a more vibrant and engaging atmosphere for our attendees,” Perrall said.

To ensure the event runs smoothly, Parral is calling out for volunteers to assist with games, crafts, and more. “We are especially in need from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday,” she noted, inviting community members to lend a hand. Volunteers will be provided meals and refreshments, and those interested in supporting this communal effort can simply arrive and inquire at the event.

For those looking for a spine-chilling adventure this fall, Parral also runs Nightmare on 38th Street, a free haunted trail open on select weekends throughout September and October. However, due to Halloween Fest, the trail will be off-limits this weekend. Interested thrill-seekers will have the chance to experience it later in the month.

The excitement is palpable as Minot’s Halloween Fest approaches, promising a day filled with joy, community connection, and seasonal fun. Families should enter through Door 1 of the Municipal Auditorium, with Door 9 available for wheelchair access.

As Tracy Parral aptly puts it, “No one is excluded at this event; I want everyone to feel comfortable and have fun in a safe environment.” This Halloween, community spirit shines bright, making it the perfect time to come together and celebrate the joy of being a family. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable day this Saturday—join the festivities and create lasting memories at Minot’s Halloween Fest!