If you have been waiting for news about the Spruce Hill Halloween “Tot” Parade, here is a short update for now: the popular annual event that draws hundreds of participants will not return this year in its usual form, according to the organizers, the Spruce Hill Community Association. However, a smaller event is being planned in the neighborhood. Stay tuned for more information.

Families are also invited to celebrate Halloween at The Woodlands (40th and Woodland) during Halloween Family Fun Day. The event will take place on Sunday, Oct. 24 from Noon to 3 p.m. and will feature a digital Halloween themed self-guided tour, and performances by Tangle Movement Arts and Karen Smith’s “Spiritual Atmospheric Cleansing.” Also after a hiatus, All Hallow’s Read, a spooky book event, will return this year as part of the Family Fun Day. Please bring a spooky or seasonal book to swap. Readers of all ages and spooky costumes of all kinds are welcome. Go here for more info.

Here are some more fun Halloween/Fall events:

Pumpkin Carving at Dock Street West, 50th and Baltimore

Thursday, Oct. 21, 8:00-10:00 p.m. (21+ only)

Pumpkin carving/painting + craft beer – what can be better? Dock Street will have all the tools and supplies you’ll need.  More info and tickets are available here.

Trunk or Treat at USciences, 43rd and Woodland

Friday, Oct. 29, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.

The event will feature music, candy, costumes, and more Halloween fun! Participants should bring their own bag to collect candy in. This event is free and open to the public and will take place in the main University parking lot in front of the Athletic/Recreation Center (rain location will be inside the ARC).

A Hurly Burly Halloween Party, 34th and Brandywine

Friday, Oct. 29, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

This “fiendish fundraiser” for Shakespeare in Clark Park (SCP). You can sign up for a chance to join stars from past SCP shows up on stage or just enjoy local treats and other spooky fun. This is a family-friendly outdoor event. All adults must show proof of vaccination. Go here for more info and to purchase tickets.