CHICOPEE — Chicopee will once again be rolling out the orange carpet for its annual Halloween Spooktacular event on Thursday, Oct. 24 from 4-7 p.m. at Szot Park, 687 Front St.
The rain date will be Oct. 25.
Guests can enjoy free hot dogs, popcorn, candy, cider donuts and apple cider.
There is also a costume contest with prizes, a haunted bus display and performances by local dance companies and the school bands.
Communications and Special Projects Manager Chloe Soto talked more about the event.
She said, “Oh boy, get ready for a treat. The Spooktacular is like one big neighborhood block party, but with way more candy and costumes. We’ve got local superheroes — aka nonprofits and city folks — handing out sweets and wait till you see our haunted buses, they’re spook-tacular. It’s all the fun of trick-or-treating, but in one safe, awesome spot at Szot Park. Think of it as the world’s coolest Halloween playground.”
With the event going on for many years providing a safe and fun spot for families to enjoy, Soto talked more about the community involvement of the event.
She said, “Remember when entire neighborhoods used to light up for Halloween? Well, we’re bringing that magical feeling back, but even better. This is like a giant family reunion, where the whole town becomes one big, safe neighborhood. It’s not just about candy, though there’s plenty of that, it’s about creating those warm, fuzzy community vibes. We’re talking laughter, new friendships and memories that’ll last longer than a sugar rush.”
For anyone who has not been to the event before, Soto said first-timers can prepare for a Halloween party like no other.
“Imagine all the best bits of trick-or-treating, rolled into one fantastic, family-friendly bash. It’s safe, it’s fun and it’s the perfect way to celebrate Halloween without worrying about which houses are giving out the good stuff. Spoiler: they all are here. Trust me, once you experience the Spooktacular, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated Halloween without it,” Soto said.
Guests are encouraged to bring and wear their “wildest costume, biggest smile and a bag that can handle a serious candy haul,” Soto shared.
“You can expect to see superheroes rubbing shoulders with princesses, and maybe even a friendly ghost or two. Oh, and don’t forget to pack your community spirit — we’re all one big, happy, slightly spooky family for the night. Just remember, it’s an outdoor event, so dress for the weather,” Soto explained.
She concluded, “We’re just bursting with excitement to see everyone come together for this ghoulishly great night. It’s more than just an event; it’s our way of saying we care about our kids, our families and our community. And the best part? It’s absolutely free. So spread the word, bring your neighbors and let’s make this the most spectacular Spooktacular yet. After all, it takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a community to throw an awesome Halloween party. Expect a few surprises.”
