Halloween parties, activities and events for all ages

Oct. 27, 2014

Alexander Nedd
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Boo! Don’t look now, but Halloween is right around the corner and what might be scarier than tales told on this day dedicated to scaring might be the fear of having an open calendar on Friday night.

There is much to do both around campus and throughout Colorado Springs. Follow these fun tips and visit these attractions with your friends for a scaring good time, if you dare.

Pumpkin carving:

Bring back one of the most memorable moments from your childhood by visiting a local pumpkin patch and carving a pumpkin. Pumpkin carving has become a competitive sport with the rise of do-it-yourself books and creative visuals that can be learned from the Internet.

Save the seeds from your pumpkin and use them to bake and snack on while you admire your work. Pumpkins can also be found at your local grocery stores. Host a party and be safe.

Boo at the Zoo:

Enjoy the frights of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo from 4-8:30 p.m. Dress up and enjoy festivities in a safe environment with friends and little ones while looking at the animals. Prices range from $10.25 to $18.25.

Trick-or-treat at the mall:

The weather can be the scariest of all in Colorado on Halloween. Avoid the cold by trick-or-treating in the mall. Those with little ones can safely navigate throughout the stores without having to brave the elements. The Citadel and Chapel Hills Mall both offer these activities that are free and open the public.

Haunted houses:

A variety of Haunted houses will be open even after Halloween. These popular destinations are open through midnight. Check out these locations before the scares are gone for the season.

Haunted Mines – Western Museum of Mining and Industry, 225 North Gate Blvd. $20

Hellscream – 3021 N. Hancock Ave.

$20 Ghouls Gulch and Sanitarium Haunted House – 3910 Palmer Park Blvd. $15

UCCS:

UCCS is also hosting a variety of activities this week. The Office of Student Activities will host a Carnival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct 29. A ghost hunt will be on Oct. 29 in Main Hall for students interested in seeing if our campus could be haunted. A haunted bike ride will take place on Halloween. Dress up and ride your bike through campus before eating in University Village with your friends.

(* These events are considered adult, younger participation is not recommended)

*21+ clubs and parties:

Several bars and clubs located in downtown Colorado Springs will be hosting costume contests and parties all night long.

Tejon Street will be a popular destination among adults including parties at Blondies, Cowboys and The Mansion. Dress to impress.

Prices range across the board with the majority starting at $10 cover charge and festivities beginning as early as 7 p.m. Remember to designate a driver if you plan to party hard and be responsible, never drink and drive.

*The Rocky Horror Picture Show:

This feature is playing at two Colorado Springs locations and will have you on the edge of your seat. This popular 1975 musical comedy has been adapted from its film version and invites audience participation. It is not for the faint of heart.

Club Q (3430 N. Academy Blvd, $10-$20) in Colorado Springs and Iron Springs Chateau Dinner Theater (444 Ruxton Ave, $15) in Manitou Springs offer showings both Oct. 30 and 31. Buying tickets in advance is recommended.