DeKalb Park District plans spooky Halloween programs

DeKALB – The DeKalb Park District will host several Halloween-themed programs this fall for thrill-seekers of all ages.

The inaugural Monster Mash Splash will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 16, at Huntley Middle School Pool, 1515 S. Fourth St. There will be Halloween-themed activities both in and out of the water. The fee is $20 for residents and $25 for nonresidents.

Tuesday, Oct. 19, is the deadline to participate in the second annual DeKalb Halloween House Decorating Contest. DeKalb residents are invited to show off their spookiest decorations and enter this fun contest. Prizes will be awarded in two categories: Best Overall (staff pick) and People’s Choice. Addresses of all entries will be published in local media unless specified otherwise at the time of registration.

Staff judging will take place from 4 to 9 p.m. Oct. 20, with the People’s Choice voting taking place on the district Facebook page, Oct. 21-28. Photos of each house will be shared, and the image with the most “likes” by 9 p.m. Oct. 28 wins. Winners will receive a prize package and a sign to display in their yard. The fee to participate is $5 per household.

A free pet event, Howl-o-ween, will be held Saturday, Oct. 23, at the Katz Dog Park, 393 W. Dresser Road. This costume contest for dogs and their owners has been an annual favorite. Prizes will be awarded in three categories: Most Spook-tacular, Howling with Laughter, and Best Owner/Pet Costume Combo. Judging will begin at 11 a.m.

Bring your carved pumpkin to Hopkins Sled Hill, 1403 Sycamore Road, at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, for a pumpkin roll competition. Guests can have fun smashing their pumpkin and turning it into compost to help nourish plants in the spring. Each participant must be registered, spectators are welcome. This event is weather-dependent and may be subject to cancellation. Staff asks participants to remove any candles and glow sticks beforehand. Non-carved pumpkins will not be accepted. The fee is $5 per participant.

For more information or to register, visit dekalbparkdistrict.com or call 815-758-6663.