Nels, Rohn, Ella and Cora. Photo: Amanda Gahler
Events offer spook-tacular fun for one and all.
Call up your ghosts and ghouls, witches and warlocks; it’s time to take advantage of the freaky fun all around you. Halloween is one of those holidays where there is no shortage of fun things to do—a fact not lost on the White Bear Lake area. No matter what your favorite festivity is, you’re bound to have fun at this year’s spookiest events.
American Legion & VFW Halloween Event
This low-key event is a perfect opportunity for small children who love dressing up and getting treats (in other words, all children). Hosted by American Legion 168 Auxiliary, S.A.L. and VFW 1782 Ladies and Men’s Auxiliaries, this experience also teaches kids about safety and American pride—McGruff the Crime Dog has even been known to make an appearance. Admission is free, although organizers encourage bringing canned food items to donate to the local food shelf.
Date and Time: October 26, 1-2:30 p.m.
Location: American Legion, 2210 Third St., White Bear Lake
Cost: Free
Info: 651.429.5770
You’re never too young to pick your perfect pumpkin at PunkinMania in Mahtomedi. Photo courtesy of Wildwood Lions Club
PunkinMania
This year marks the 25th anniversary of PunkinMania, one of Wildwood Lions Club’s key fundraisers and a proven kid favorite. Little ones enjoy a petting zoo, pony rides, yummy snacks and a vast supply of pumpkins and gourds grown by members of the club. Preschool and elementary-age children receive free trick-or-treat bags filled with art and school supplies. All proceeds go toward serving those in need.
Date: October 11
Time: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Location: Triangle Park, 93 Mahtomedi Ave., Mahtomedi
Cost: Free; donations encouraged
Info: e-clubhouse.org/sites/ wildwoodmn/
Intro to Ghost & Spirit Energies
If you believe in the paranormal, or want to learn more, this class might just be for you. Led by certified energy healing practitioner Suzanne Worthley, this introductory class aims to familiarize students with the concept of space clearing, the spirit world and the paranormal. Participants of all ages are welcome and will take home tips on how to clear and balance the energy in the spaces around them.
Date: October 15
Time: 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Location: White Bear Lake Area School District Center, 4855 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake
Cost: $25
Registration: whitebearregistration.org
Info: sworthley.com
Fright Walk
We can’t say why, but some of us really love a good scare. If you know what we mean, mark your calendars for the Fright Walk. Every fall, Century College’s outdoor trail is transformed into a creepy, crawly experience. Participants walk through the woods where some surprise encounters await. For those with children, attend earlier for a less scary experience, or check out indoor activities like face painting, crafts and treats.
Date: October 22
Time: 5:30–9 p.m.
Location: Century College West Campus, 3300 Century Ave. N., White Bear Lake
Cost: Free for children 10 and under, $1 for students, $2 for everyone else
Info: century.edu
Scare in White Bear This event is perfect for those who want to preemptively work off some of their Halloween candy! Tri Fitness’ Scare in White Bear is a family friendly race featuring a 5K and children’s fun runs. Race-goers run in costumes along a torchlit pathway populated by scary volunteers. Enjoy a hot cup of cider or coffee after the race.
Date: October 24
Time: Kids’ races begin at 6:30 p.m.; 5K begins at 7 p.m.
Location: West Park, 4958 Lake St., White Bear Lake
Cost: Kids’ run $20 before Oct. 19; 5K $35 before Oct. 10.
Preregistration required; registration closes October 19.
Info: trifitnesswbl.com/as_scare-in-white-bear
Trunks ‘N’ Treats
As you might guess from the name, this is no ordinary trick-or-treating event. The timeless Halloween tradition gets a unique spin: Kids can trick or treat between decorated car trunks in search of sweet treats. Guests can enjoy games, music, and a performance by Dream Faith Puppets.
Date: October 25
Time: 2–4 p.m. |
Location: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake
Cost: Free
Info: ststephenwbl.org
Apple-pressing is just one of the fun events at the annual Tamarack Trick or Treat. Photo courtesy of Tamarack Nature Center
Tamarack Trick or Treat
It’s a Halloween party just for kids! Bring your little gremlin to this non-spooky event that includes games, old-fashioned hand-pressed cider, and close encounters with live animals. Friendly costumed characters are around to hand out yummy treats along a prairie trail, take pictures or hang out within the Discovery Hollow play area. Be sure to register early, as this event fills up fast.
Date: October 25
Time: 3–5:30 p.m.; registration is available for 3, 3:20, 3:40 or 4 p.m.; activities take 75 minutes to complete.
Location: Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake Road, White Bear Township
Cost: $7.50 per child; $3.25 per adult Preregistration is required.
Info: parks.co.ramsey.mn.us/tamarack
Boo Bash
Going on its 15th year, the Kowalski’s Boo Bash is a must-do event to get into the Halloween spirit. With goodies that include candy, healthy snacks, and other kid-friendly items, it’s a treat for parents and kids alike. Costumes are encouraged, but not required.
Date: October 28
Time: 4–7 p.m.
Location: Kowalski’s, 4391 S. Lake Ave., White Bear Lake
Cost: Free
Info: kowalskis.com
Kellerman’s 3rd Annual Halloween Costume Party
Don your best costume and head to Kellerman’s Event Center for a rockin’ good time. This music-filled event starring T. Bone will feature an all-star band with former band members from Raggs, Austin Healy, Bad Girlfriends, Zebra Mussels and The Unreliables. If you’re looking for some thing to eat while you’re listening, no worries, as a limited menu from Key’s Cafe will be offered. A prize for best costume will be awarded.
Date: October 31
Time: Doors open at 7 p.m.; music runs from 8 p.m.-midnight
Location: Kellerman’s Event Center, 2222 Fourth St., White Bear Lake
Cost: $10 at the door
Info: kellermanseventcenter.com
