The haunting holiday is slowly approaching, and it’s time to start figuring out plans for the spooky season. There’s always a long preparation for the actual holiday on October 31, but many people are in search of fun family activities before the big day. 

There are always the classic activities like hayrides or picking pumpkins for jack o’lanterns, but it’s difficult to even find where these events are hosted. Here’s a list of some upcoming events in the Boca area this October.

First up is the annual Halloween at the Y. The YMCA located on Military Trail is hosting a trunk or treat Friday the 20th and Saturday the 21st from 6:30pm-8:30pm. It’s said to have a magician, DJ, food trucks, corn maze and contests. Costumes are appreciated and candy bags are especially invited. This event is sponsored by Publix Supermarket Charities. Admission cost is one bag of candy per person, but if guests come last minute the cost is $15 per child and $5 per adult. Guests who’d like to bring their own trunks can register their vehicle at the YMCA location. The event coordinators are also looking for volunteers for any students who may still need to fulfill their required hours to graduate.

The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center will also be hosting a “Halloween in the Garden” event Sunday, October 22. This event is reservation only, and admission is $10 for those who live within the city of Boca and the greater beach/park district and $13 for those outside the district.  The event is hosted from 4:30 pm-5:30 pm or from 6:00 pm-7:00 pm. Activities to be expected are outdoor crafts, games and more, including photo ops with the nature center’s resident sea turtle, Luna.

The Mizner Park Amphitheater will be holding a pumpkin patch festival on Friday the 13th, 14th, and 15th from 4:00 pm-9:00 pm, though hours may vary depending what day.  It is a ticketed event.

For more classic events, there is of course the annual Bender’s pumpkin patch and corn maze. They also include hay rides and, during fall fest, tend to have bouncy castles and slides. There are also animals and tractor rides.

Somerset Academy Canyons will also be having their own pumpkin patch available. While the date has yet to be released, they may still be looking for volunteers to help with unloading the pumpkins. 

And lastly, of course, although its date hasn’t been released yet, there is always the trunk or treat hosted at Olympic Heights itself. Some clubs, such as DECA, had their own trunks at the event and offered service hours to the members who participated in the set up and in the event.

Remember to share the Halloween spirit when searching for the spooky events to attend this halloween season and enjoy the somewhat fall atmosphere of what South Florida has to offer. There are still plenty more pumpkin patches and haybell rides to attend to and discover this upcoming October.