Spiced Pumpkin Bars

• 2  cups flour
• 2  tsp baking powder
• 2  tsp ground cinnamon
• 1  tsp baking soda
• 1/4  tsp salt
• 4  eggs
• 15 oz can of pumpkin
• 1 2/3  cups sugar
• 1  cup cooking oil
• 3/4  cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4  cup butter, softened
• 1  tsp vanilla
• 2  cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• Pecan halves (optional)

1. In a medium bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together eggs, pumpkin, sugar, and oil on medium speed. Add the flour mixture; beat until well combined. If desired, stir in chopped pecans.
3. Spread batter into an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
4. Bake in a 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
5. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
6. Frost pumpkin bars. If desired, top with pecan halves. Cut into squares. Store, covered, in refrigerator up to 3 days.

Recipe adapted from Better Homes and Gardens.

Source:  Culinary.net

Pumpkin Pie

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 8

• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade), at room temperature
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1 can (15 ounces) Green Giant 100% Pure Pumpkin
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

1. Roll out dough to 2 inches larger than pie dish. Gently press dough into dish until it lines bottom and sides. Trim dough to within 1/2 inch of dish edge. Fold edges underneath themselves, creating thick 1/4-inch border. Crimp edges with fingers. Refrigerate. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. In large bowl, whisk eggs and sugars until smooth. Add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt. Stir until well blended.
3. Slowly pour filling into pie shell. Cover edges with thin strips of aluminum foil. Bake 25 minutes. Remove foil. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.

Source: Green Giant Pumpkin.

Brown Butter Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 70 minutes
Yield: 48-50 cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1 can (15 ounces) Green Giant 100% Pure Pumpkin
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 egg yolks

For Rolling:

• 2 tablespoons cane sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

1. In small saute pan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir regularly until butter turns deep golden brown, 8-10 minutes. Pour browned butter into heat-safe bowl or measuring cup and refrigerate until cooled, but not solid, about 15 minutes.
2. In large mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.
3. In separate medium mixing bowl, stir browned butter and brown sugar. Whisk in pumpkin and vanilla extract followed by eggs and egg yolks.
4. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry until evenly mixed. Refrigerate dough 30 minutes.
5. Form dough into four separate logs 2-3 inches in diameter and about 7 inches long. Wrap each cookie dough log with plastic wrap. Freeze dough 30 minutes, or until ready to bake.
6. For rolling: Preheat oven to 350 F and line large baking sheet with parchment paper. Stir sugars and cinnamon on large plate. Unwrap desired amount of dough (thaw slightly at room temperature if dough is completely frozen) and roll each log in sugar mixture.
7. Slice into 1/2-inch slices. Place on baking sheet 3 inches apart.
8. Bake 14-15 minutes. Repeat with remaining cookie dough.
9. Cool cookies at room temperature on baking sheet 10 minutes before transferring to cooling rack and cooling 10 minutes.

Source: Green Giant Pumpkin.

Pumpkin Sourdough Loaf

This delicious bread is very subtly sweet, and the pumpkin pie spices permeate the bread beautifully.

Ingredients

• 100 g ripe, bubbly, active sourdough starter
• 140 g pumpkin purée
• 250 g water
• 65 g brown sugar
• 12 g salt
• 500 g all-purpose flour (e.g., organic Costco AP)
• ~1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (plus more for laminating the dough)

Steps

1. Mix starter, pumpkin purée, water, brown sugar, salt, and flour in a stand mixer with a dough hook until homogenous.
2. Rest the dough 15–20 minutes (optional but helpful).
3. Perform Stretch & Fold Set 1.
4. Rest 30 minutes.
5. Perform Stretch & Fold Set 2.
6. Rest 30 minutes.
7. Perform Stretch & Fold Set 3.
8. Rest 30 minutes.
9. Perform Stretch & Fold Set 4 (total four sets over ~2 hours).
10. Cover and bulk rise 2–3 hours (about 2 hours at 77–78°F; cooler rooms may need 3+ hours).
11. Gently stretch dough into a large rectangle; sprinkle pumpkin pie spice, then fold like a letter, adding a little more spice between layers.
12. Shape into a round on a lightly floured surface, creating surface tension.
13. Place seam-side up in a lined banneton or bowl; cover and refrigerate 12–24 hours.
14. Preheat a lidded cast-iron Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C) for about 30 minutes.
15. Turn dough onto parchment, score the top, and lower into the hot Dutch oven.
16. Bake at 450°F for 30 minutes with the lid on.
17. Remove lid and bake 8–15 minutes more, until deeply browned.
18. Transfer to a rack and cool about 30 minutes.
19. Slice and enjoy—great with butter, maple cream, or pumpkin butter.

Recipe by Anna Snyder (Adapted from Amy Bakes Bread)

Zucchini Spice Bundt Cake

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy

• 1 box spice cake mix
• 2 cups grated zucchini
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup chopped walnuts, divided
• 1 cup chopped white chocolate chips, divided
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• milk

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. In bowl, mix cake mix, zucchini, butter, eggs, 3/4 cup walnuts and 3/4 cup white chocolate chips. Pour into greased bundt pan and bake 40 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
3. Let cool about 10 minutes then remove from pan to finish cooling.
4. Mix powdered sugar and milk, about 1/4 cup, to reach desired consistency of frosting. Pour over cooled cake then sprinkle with remaining walnuts and remaining white chocolate chips. Cut and serve.

Source: Culinary.net

The post Easy Fall Pumpkin Recipes appeared first on SWFL Family.

Creative Ways to Repurpose Halloween Candy

Share the Sweets at Work

A tried and true classic. It’s likely you won’t be the only person in your office bringing in leftovers a few days after Halloween, but there’s a good chance you have coworkers without kids who may not be as tired of treats as parents.

Freeze for Future Treats

Certain candies like chocolates freeze better than others, so be conscious of what you’re putting in the freezer. This method keeps your sweets better longer and allows you to use them as ingredients in baking desserts throughout the year, or you can simply thaw a few at a time for snacking.

Make Halloween Trail Mix

The traditional recipe calls for peanuts, raisins and small chocolate pieces, but you can take matters into your own hands with a creative hodgepodge of just about anything you’re left with after Halloween passes. Candy corn, pretzels, chocolates and other sweets are perfect for mixing up as a snack to put in baggies for work or school – just choose your family’s favorites and toss together.

Display It for Guests

Leftover goodies don’t have to be hidden in the pantry. Grab a small glass dish, fill it with wrapped fun-size candies and place it on an end table, kitchen island or anywhere guests often gather and would feel invited to take one.

5. Pair It with a Drink (for Adults!)

Although it’s (probably) your kids’ hard work that led to an abundance of candies, you can enjoy the fruits of their labor. For adults who enjoy a sweet chocolate treat (even if it isn’t fancy) with a glass of red wine or spiked hot chocolate, there are few better ways to wind down after Halloween than with a boozy pairing.

Visit Culinary.net for more Halloween treats and recipe ideas.

Donate or Trade Candy in Collier & Lee Counties

Give It Away Locally

St. Matthew’s House – Naples

• Accepts: Sealed, individually wrapped candy
• Location: 2601 Airport Rd S, Naples, FL 34112
• Website: stmatthewshouse.org
• Phone: (239) 774-0500
• Tip: Call ahead to confirm candy acceptance and drop-off times.

Helps Outreach

• Location: 2025 J & C Blvd, Unit 1, Naples, FL 34109
• Website: helpsoutreach.org
• May accept sealed candy for food pantry or outreach—call to confirm.

Salvation Army – Naples

• Location: 3180 Estey Ave, Naples, FL 34104
• Website: naples.salvationarmyflorida.org
• Check with staff about including candy in donation bins.

Support U.S. Troops with Candy

Soldiers’ Angels – Treats for Troops

• Drop-off (Collier): 550 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
• Hours: Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm (Oct. 16–Nov. 3)
• Website: soldiersangels.org

Operation Shoebox

• Mail to: PO Box 1465, Belleview, FL 34421
• Website: operationshoebox.com

Troopathon

• Mail to: 3105 Fite Circle, Suite 108, Sacramento, CA 95827
• Website: troopathon.org

Local Candy Buyback Event

Children’s Dentistry & Family Orthodontics of Naples

• Event Name: “Cash for Candy” Buyback
• Dates: November 3–6
• Drop-off Hours: 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. & 2:00–4:00 p.m.
• Offer: $1 per pound (limit $10 per individual)
• Where it Goes: Candy is donated to American troops overseas
• Location: 3021 Airport Pulling Rd N, Suite 203, Naples, FL 34105
• Website: childrensdentistrynaples.com

Run a DIY Family Buyback

Create a home “candy store.” Let your kids swap sweets for books, toys, or outings like a museum visit or ice cream trip. Once the candy is traded, remove it to avoid temptation.

Extra-Sweet Post-Halloween Tips

• Sort smart: Bag chocolate, gummies, and hard candy separately.
• Add a note: Kids can draw thank-you cards for donation bags.
• Check labels: Only donate sealed, factory-wrapped candy.
• Brush up: Encourage a water rinse or quick brush after enjoying sticky treats.

The post Tips for Tackling Leftover Halloween Treats appeared first on SWFL Family.

Details are subject to change so check the event’s website for the latest information. 

Collier and Lee County Halloween Fall Events

Multiple Date Events

Check website for times.

Farmer Mike’s 11th Annual Fall Festival & Corn Mazes

At Farmer Mike’s, you can pick your own sunflowers and pumpkins and lose yourself in the corn maze with this year’s theme “The Lost City of Atlantis.”

• DATES: Sept. 27-Nov. 2
• LOCATION: Farmer Mikes U Pick, 26031 Morton Ave, Bonita Springs.
• INFO: 239-498-4576 or farmermikesupick.com

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium’s Annual Haunted Walk 

When darkness falls, your only mission is to survive.

• DATES: Every weekend from Oct. 3-26
• LOCATION: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers.
• INFO: 239-275-3435 or calusanature.org

2025 Lakes Park Fall Festival 

Tons of Pumpkins, Incredible Inflatables, Halloween Express Train Ride, Games, Hayrides, Scarecrow Contest Displays, and more.

• DATES: Oct. 10-31
• LOCATION: Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers.
• INFO: 239-332-2453 or leegov.com/parks/parks/lakespark

Boo at the Zoo 

Witness the zoo magically transform into a living movie scene, complete with costumed characters and trick-or-treating for kids 12 and under.

• DATES: Oct. 10-12 & 17-19
• LOCATION: Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, 1590 Goodlette Frank Rd. N , Naples.
• INFO: 239-262-5409 or napleszoo.org/boo

40th Annual Cape Coral Oktoberfest

With German music and local bands, German food, and beer, there’s plenty of fun to go around—including a Carnival area for kids.

• DATES: Oct. 17-19 & 24-26
• LOCATION: German American Social Club, 2101 SW Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral.
• INFO: 239-283-1400 or capecoraloktoberfest.com

Mr. Glen’s Exploding Pumpkins

A scientifically spooky spectacular event for all ages. Mr. Glen will bring science to Halloween. Each show runs about 50 minutes. Tickets are required.

• DATES: Oct. 12 & 19
• LOCATION: Riptide Brewing Company, 28120 Hunters Ridge Blvd., Bonita Springs
• INFO: supersciencefl.com

Halloween Make & Take Crafts

A craft extravaganza, including pumpkin painting, Halloween cards, and a variety of paper crafts.

• DATES: Oct. 16-31
• LOCATION: At varying Collier Country Public Library Branches. Check website for more info.
• INFO: 239-252-7350 or collierlibrary.org

Wicked Walk

Step into a one-of-a-kind haunted, interactive theatrical experience where the ghosts of decades past come to life through original art, installations, skits, dances, and musical performances created by over 150 talented student artists.

• DATES: Oct. 23-24
• LOCATION: Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers
• INFO: sbdac.com/wicked

OCTOBER ONE-DAY HALLOWEEN EVENTS

Dias de los Muertos Family Fun Day

Learn how to decorate calaveras (skulls), create offrendas (alters), and learn more about this tradition that is important to many indigenous American cultures.

• DATE: Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• LOCATION: Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S Heathwood Dr., Marco Island
• INFO: colliermuseums.com

Barktober Fest & Pet Costume Contest

Enjoy music, photo ops, and balloon art, plus a chance to strut your pup in our pet costume contest benefiting the Gulf Coast Humane Society.

• DATE: Oct. 4, 6 p.m.
• LOCATION: Gulf Coast Town Center, 9903 Gulf Coast Main St., Fort Myers
• INFO: www.gulfcoasttowncenter.com

Lake Kennedy Center’s Halloween Bingo

A fun-filled afternoon with Halloween-themed bingo, prizes, and a costume contest.

• DATE: Oct. 5, 2 p.m
• LOCATION: Lake Kennedy Center, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral
• INFO: www.capecoral.gov

Pioneer Pumpkin Palooza 

Pick your pumpkin and head to the decorating station to gussy up your gourd. Then make a scarecrow and husk dolls at the crafts tables. Experience the magic of fall on the hayride as you tour the ranch.

• DATE: Oct. 11, 10:00 am-1:00 pm
• LOCATION: Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch, 1215 Roberts Ave W, Immokalee.
• INFO: colliermuseums.com

Spooky Science

Mr. Glen is back with more wild experiments, crazy reactions, and mind-blowing fun. Get ready for an action-packed science show.

• DATE: Oct. 11, 2-3 p.m.
• LOCATION: Immokalee Branch Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee
• INFO: www.collierlibrary.org

Trunk or Treat

Food and fun for all ages.

• DATE: Oct. 11, 6-8:30 p.m.
• LOCATION: Naples Italian American Foundation, 7035 Airport-Pulling Rd., Naples
• INFO: niafoundation.org

Boo-Tacular 2025

Includes a haunted trail, costume contest, trick or treating, food trucks, DJ, bounce houses, games, crafts, dunk tank, and more!

• DATE: Oct. 17, 6:00-9:00 pm
• LOCATION: North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Rd., Naples.
• INFO: 239-252-4000 or collierparks.com

Mid-Cape Trunk or Treat

Trunk or treat with festively decorated trunks, tasty food, lively music, yard games, photo opportunities, and fang-tastic fun for the whole family.

• DATE: Oct 17, 4-6 pm
• LOCATION: Mercola Market of Cape Coral, 125 SW 3rd Pl, Cape Coral.
• INFO: 239-599-9400 or mercolamarketcc.com

Fall Festival at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Shop the craft vendor booths, grab refreshments, enjoy the music, pick out a pumpkin, and more. Be one of the few to climb the historic banyan tree.

• DATE: Oct. 18, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
• LOCATION: Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers.
• INFO: 239-334-7419 or edisonfordwinterestates.org

Tamiami Ford Trunk of Treats 

Costume contest, axe throwing contest, dunk tank, carnival games, face painting, musical chairs, and more.

• DATE: Oct. 18, 10:00 am-1:00 pm
• LOCATION: Tamiami Ford, 1471 Airport-Pulling Rd. N, Naples.
• INFO: tamiamiford.com

Halloween Spooktacular CMON 

Come in costume and enjoy not-so-spooky Halloween games, activities, and trick or treating for the whole family. The museum is open at three designated times throughout the day for members and guests holding Halloween Spooktacular event tickets.

• DATE: Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., 1-3 p.m., or 4-6 p.m.
• LOCATION: Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (CMON), 15080 Livingston Road, Naples.
• INFO: cmon.org

Fall Fest

A family-friendly fall event with vendors, bounce houses, games, and more.

• DATE: Oct. 18, 12-4 p.m.
• LOCATION: Nation’s Choice Church, 903 Pondella Rd., North Fort Myers
• INFO: www.nationschoicechurch.org

Spooktacular Night at Estero Park 

A spooky night under the stars. Activities include trunk or treat, food trucks, and a movie in the park.

• DATE: Oct. 18, 5:00-9:00 pm
• LOCATION: Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero.
• INFO: leegov.com/parks

Trunk or Treat

Decorate a trunk and compete for a chance to win a ghoulish prize and a dazzling trophy. Show off your costume for a chance to win another trophy.

• DATE: Oct. 18, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• LOCATION: Integrity Martial Arts, 2400 Immokalee Rd., #1, Naples
• INFO: integrityata.com/location/north-naples

Haunted Hoedown

Bring the whole family for a night of Halloween fun. Activities include a costume contest, face painting, a pumpkin patch, trick or treating, and a free screening of Hotel Transylvania.

• DATE: Oct. 21, 5:30-700 pm
• LOCATION: Mercato, 9110 Strada Place, Naples.
• INFO: experiencemercato.com

Avowloween

Trunk or treat, costumes, games, and other fun.

• DATE: Oct. 24, 5-7 p.m.
• LOCATION: Aunt Janet’s House on the Avow Campus, 1301 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples
• INFO: www.avowcares.org

Candy Haunted House Creations

Children will have all the candy, frosting, and cookies they need to design their own haunted candy house.

• DATE: Oct. 24, 5:00-6:30 pm
• LOCATION: Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Boulevard W., Naples.

• INFO: 239-252-4105 or collierparks.com

Trunk or Treat at NABOR 

Dress up and collect candy and prizes at the Naples Area Board of REALTORS® FREE Trunk or Treat.

• DATE: Oct. 24, 5:30-7:30 pm
• LOCATION: Naples Area Board of REALTORS, 1455 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples.
• INFO: 239-597-1666 or facebook.com/nabor

Halloween Monster Family Bash

Come for a fun night of dancing, music, games, and treats! 

• DATE: Oct. 24, 6:00-8:00 pm
• LOCATION: Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples.

• INFO: 239-252-4180 or collierparks.com

VET Monster Mash Bash

Come dressed in your best costume and enjoy a trick-or-treat trail, live music and entertainment, a tent decorating contest, and so much more!

• DATE: Oct. 24, 6:30-9:00 pm
• LOCATION: Veterans Park, 55 Homestead Rd S, Lehigh Acres.
• INFO: 239-533-2111 or leegov.com/parks

Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park “RIP” Trunk or Treat 

Enjoy a fun-filled night of Halloween festivities, including games, costume contests, prizes, bounce houses, food vendors, and more.

• DATE: Oct. 24, 6:00-8:00 pm
• LOCATION: Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park, 810 39th Ave NE, Naples.
• INFO: www.collierparks.com

Family Fall Festival 

Get your costumes and trick-or-treat bags ready for our Annual Family Fall Festival!

• DATE: Oct. 24, 6:00-8:30 pm
• LOCATION: North Fort Myers Park and Recreation, 2000 North Recreation Parkway, North Fort Myers.
• INFO: 239-533-2111 or leegov.com/parks

Ghoulden Gate Estates Trunk or Treat

Enjoy a fun-filled night of Halloween festivities, including games, costume contests, prizes, bounce houses, food vendors, and more.

• DATE: Oct. 24, 6:00-8:00 pm
• LOCATION: Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park, 810 39th Ave. N.E., Naples.
• INFO: www.collierparks.com

Immokalee Trunk or Treat

Trick or treating, music, face painting, bounce houses, food, and a costume contest.

• DATE: Oct. 24, 6-8 p.m.
• LOCATION: Immokalee Community Park, 321 N. First St., Immokalee
• INFO: www.collierparks.com

Trunk or Treat 

Candy giveaways (while supplies last), music, interactive inflatables, a drone show, and skele-fun for all ages. Costumes are encouraged.

• DATE: Oct. 24, 6:00-9:00 pm
• LOCATION: Cape Coral City Hall, 1015 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral.
• INFO: 239-573-3128 or capecoral.gov

25 SATURDAY

YMCA Annual 5k Race, Fun Run & Walk

Ready, Set, Go! Come dressed in your Halloween best at this year’s 5k in Marco Island — all are welcome.

• DATE: Oct. 25, Check-in at 7:45 am, Race begins at 8:30 am
• LOCATION: YMCA of Collier County (South Campus – Marco), 101 Sand Hill Street, Marco Island.
• INFO: www.ymcacollier.org/ymca-5k

Mid-Cape Trunk or Treat

Trunk or treat with festively decorated trunks, tasty food, lively music, yard games, photo opportunities, and fang-tastic fun for the whole family.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
• LOCATION: Mercola Market of Cape Coral, 125 SW 3rd Pl, Cape Coral
• INFO: mercolamarketcc.com

Hoots & Hisses

Family-friendly day of Halloween fun.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
• LOCATION: Conservancy of SWFL 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples
• INFO: conservancy.org/hoots-and-hisses

YMCA Boo-tacular 

A mini-carnival with games, prizes, and lots of treats. For children ages up to 5.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 10:00 am-12:00 pm
• LOCATION: YMCA of Collier County (North Campus), 5450 YMCA Road, Naples.
• INFO: 239-394-9622 or ymcacollier.org

Annual Halloween Trick or Treat Spooktacular 

Adult costume contest, decorated car contest, trunk or treat, and more. Children are encouraged to wear costumes.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 10:00 am-3:00 pm
• LOCATION: Bell Tower Shops, Daniels Parkway & US 41, Fort Myers.
• INFO: belltowerfl.com

Halloween Flamingo Fest

Pumpkin decorating, trick or treating, live music, games, food, bounce house, costume contests, and more.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
• LOCATION: Flamingo Island Flea Market, 11902 Bonita Beach Rd. S.E., Bonita Springs
• INFO: www.facebook.com/flamingoisland

Hogwarts Halloween: Family Concert 

A concert that brings the spellbinding world of Hogwarts to life. The lobby is a haven for young witches, wizards, and Muggles. Trick or treating also.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 1:00 pm
• LOCATION: Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Center, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers.
• INFO: bbmannpah.com

Annual Trunk-or-Treat at Ave Maria Town Center 

Candy, games, costume contest, themed live music, DJ, food and beverages, and more.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 3:00 pm-6:00 pm
• LOCATION: Ave Maria Town Center, 5076 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria, FL, 34142, Immokalee.
• INFO: avemaria.com

5th Avenue South Halloween Spooktacular and Trunk or Treat

Food, candy, games, costume contests, live music, and child-friendly performances.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 3-8 p.m.
• LOCATION: Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples
• INFO: www.fifthavenuesouth.com/halloween

Halloween Spooktacular

Music, games, treats for the kids, and a costume contest.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 4-6 p.m.
• LOCATION: Fire Station 50, 1280 San Marco Rd., Marco Island
• INFO: www.cityofmarcoisland.com

Ghouls & Ghouls Candy Crawl 

Bring the family for this annual trick or treat and costume contest.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 5:00-8:00 pm
• LOCATION: Gulf Coast Town Center, 9903 Gulf Coast Main Street, Fort Myers.
• INFO: gulfcoasttowncenter.com

City of Naples Trunk or Treat

An event full of scary activities, food trucks, live entertainment, and more.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 6-8 p.m.
• LOCATION: Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples
• INFO: www.naplesgov.com

GTLC’s Annual Trunk or Treat

Wear your costume, bring a treat bag, and vote on your favorite decorated trunk.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 6 p.m.
• LOCATION: Gateway Trinity Lutheran Church, 11381 Gateway Blvd., Fort Myers
• INFO: gtlc.org

YMCA Trunk or Treat

A family-friendly fall event with cars filled with treats.

• DATE: Oct. 25, 5-7 p.m.
• LOCATION: YMCA North Campus, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples
• INFO: www.ymcacollier.org

Halloween Trick or Treating

Show off your Halloween spirit with the Children’s Department and get a treat.

• DATE: Oct. 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• LOCATION: Headquarters Regional Branch, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples
• INFO: collierlibrary.org

Light the Night

Lighting up the night with fun, hospitality, and hope.

• DATE: Oct. 31
• LOCATION: Various neighborhoods
• INFO: firstnaples.org

Fall Festival

This family-friendly event includes a pumpkin patch, hay rides, games, farm animals, pony rides, and more.

• DATE: Nov. 1, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• LOCATION: Empowerment Farm, 2000 Garland Rd., Naples
• INFO: empowermentfarm.org/events

The post Fall Festivals and Halloween Events In Collier & Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

In my view, Savannah’s four seasons are Spring (all flowers and romance), Summer Vacation, Holiday, and glorious October, when the humidity and summer crowds disappear, the days are often beachy-warm, and the nights have just the right touch of chill.

Ghostly things

October is perfect for a ghost tour in one of the most haunted cities in the world. The bony fingers of bare tree branches draped in ghostly tangles of Spanish moss make you shiver just a bit more. Two walking tours are designed especially for families with kids. On the Fraidy Cat Ghost Tour, local guides tell the tales and secrets of those who lived and died either tragically or mysteriously hundreds of years ago (and possibly never left?). The perfect amount of spookiness earns all the feels with thousands of five-star reviews (madcattours.com). The Grave Tales Ghost Tour will both spook you out and make you laugh with ghostly tales of goings-on among the gravestones, historic homes, restaurants, and inns.
ghostcitytours.com/savannah/grave-tales-tour

“Where’s Noble’s Bones? A Bone-Chilling Scavenger Hunt” happens each Saturday in October at the beautiful Wormsloe State Historic Site. Kids and grownups follow clues to find lost “bones” of the plantation’s first owner. Prizes are involved. Free with admission to Wormsloe.

Quidditch, anyone?

Each October, the Georgia State Railroad Museum and Savannah Children’s Museum transform into a Harry Potter-style wizarding world. Immersive activities involve potions and spells, wand-making, muggle studies, owls, and other magical creatures. Games include Frogwarts Quidditch and Frogwarts Summon. This year’s event is on Sunday, October 19. For advance tickets to Frogwarts visit https://bit.ly/Frogwarts2025

Both museums are in Tricentennial Park along with Battlefield Memorial Park. Savannah Children’s Museum, designed for kids 18 months to 10 years, is a massive outdoor play-and-explore museum, built into the ruins of the old Central of Georgia Railway repair shops. There’s an exploration maze, puppet theater, art maker space, sensory garden, nature kitchen, and activities that include the museum’s mascots, Tippy the Tortoise and Pogo the Turtle.

The huge Georgia State Railroad Museum includes historic steam and diesel rail cars, with train rides on weekends through November, and a vintage handcar ride on the railroad track (think Wile E. Coyote vs. the Road Runner). Artifacts and exhibits tell a century of stories of railroad history and technology, industrial slavery, and segregation. The complex operates the oldest functioning railroad repair and restoration facility in the U.S.

The “See 3” pass is good for any three of Coastal Heritage Society’s participating museums over a three-day period, including Georgia State Railroad Museum, Savannah Children’s Museum, Savannah History Museum, Revolutionary Battlefield Memorial Park, and Old Fort Jackson. chsgeorgia.org

Old Fort Jackson, 10 minutes from downtown, is one of the oldest standing brick forts in the U.S. With its impressive collection of tools and weaponry, it’s very cool to visit —never mind that it lost to the British in the Revolutionary War and to the Union in the Civil War. Still, historical interpreters proudly offer daily weapons demonstrations and, sometimes, to the delight of passing riverboat passengers, they unleash some awe-inspiring cannon fire.

Wiener dog races

How much do Savannahians love their doggies? The springtime Dog Carnival draws thousands, and there is even a historic tour for dogs and their humans. oliverbentleys.com.

October has two wiener dog events: The Wiener Dog Races and Costume Contest on the Riverfront on Oct. 11, and the more laid-back Wag-O-Ween, Oct. 25-26, which also draws costumed dogs of all varietes and their humans go trick-or-doggie-treating at over 100 businesses throughout downtown. Wiener dogs (dachshunds) are not particularly fond of following directions, so watching their humans try to inspire them to move at all, much less in a straight line, you will laugh your tail off. Fees apply to race contestants only; spectating, costume contests, and other activities are free.

Pirate Shenanigans

Despite Savannah’s sophistication, there’s not an ounce of elegance on nearby Tybee Island. It celebrates the 1950s with sherbet-colored cottages, seafood shacks, and sea oat-covered dunes, plus its circa 1733 lighthouse and crumbling fort dating back to the Spanish-American War. And its festivals. Best for kids is the annual Tybee Island Pirate Festival and Parade, which is Oct. 11 this year. There’s a pirate encampment, face painting, kids costume contest, juggling, puppet shows, sword show, and carnival. The parade starts at 3 p.m.

Inside Tips

There is always plenty to do, eat, and buy along Savannah’s historic Riverfront where the sight of incoming cargo ships and blasts of airhorns are breathtaking. Be sure to score free samples at the candy, fudge, and popcorn shops, hop aboard the free riverboat shuttle for a short trip across the river and back, and enjoy Octoberfest happenings Oct. 4-19. You will need a car to visit Tybee, Wormsloe, or Old Fort Jackson, but for everything else you can walk or grab the DOT, a free off and-on-trolley that makes 20 stops around the Historic District from the river to Forsyth Park connectonthedot.com.

Much more at visitsavannah.com

The post Top Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah This October appeared first on SWFL Family.

Looking for additional Halloween and fall events? Check out our list of Fall Festivals and Halloween Events in Collier & Lee Counties.

Trunk or Treat

Food and fun for all ages.
DATE: Oct. 11, 6-8:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Naples Italian American Foundation, 7035 Airport-Pulling Rd., Naples
INFO: niafoundation.org

Mid-Cape Trunk or Treat

Trunk or treat with festively decorated trunks, tasty food, lively music, yard games, photo opportunities, and fang-tastic fun for the whole family.
DATE: Oct. 17, 4-6 p.m.
LOCATION: Mercola Market of Cape Coral, 125 SW 3rd Pl, Cape Coral
INFO: mercolamarketcc.com

Tamiami Ford Trunk of Treats

Costume contest, axe throwing contest, dunk tank, carnival games, face painting, musical chairs, and more.
DATE: Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
LOCATION: Tamiami Ford, 1471 Airport-Pulling Rd. N, Naples
INFO: www.tamiamiford.com

Trunk or Treat

Decorate a trunk and compete for a chance to win a ghoulish prize and a dazzling trophy. Show off your costume for a chance to win another trophy.
DATE: Oct. 18, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Integrity Martial Arts, 2400 Immokalee Rd., #1, Naples
INFO: integrityata.com/location/north-naples

Avowloween

Trunk or treat, costumes, games, and other fun.
DATE: Oct. 24, 5-7 p.m.
LOCATION: Aunt Janet’s House on the Avow Campus, 1301 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples
INFO: www.avowcares.org

Trunk or Treat NABOR

Dress up and collect candy. This is a free event for the entire community with a DJ and lots of treats.
DATE: Oct. 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Naples Area Board of Realtors, 1455 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples
INFO: www.facebook.com/events/1273844560968123

Immokalee Trunk or Treat

Trick or treating, music, face painting, bounce houses, food, and a costume contest.
DATE: Oct. 24, 6-8 p.m.
LOCATION: Immokalee Community Park, 321 N. First St., Immokalee
INFO: www.collierparks.com

Ghoulden Gate Estates Trunk or Treat

Enjoy a fun-filled night of Halloween festivities, including games, costume contests, prizes, bounce houses, food vendors, and more.
DATE: Oct. 24, 6-8 p.m.
LOCATION: Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park, 810 39th Ave. N.E., Naples
INFO: www.collierparks.com

Cape Coral Trunk or Treat

Candy giveaways (while supplies last), music, interactive inflatables, a drone show, and skele-fun for all ages. Costumes are encouraged.
DATE: Oct. 24, 6-9 p.m.
LOCATION: Cape Coral City Hall, 1015 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral
INFO: capecoral.gov

YMCA Trunk or Treat

A family-friendly fall event with cars filled with treats.
DATE: Oct. 25, 5-7 p.m.
LOCATION: YMCA North Campus, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples
INFO: www.ymcacollier.org

Annual Halloween Trick or Treat Spooktacular

Adult costume contest, decorated car contest, trunk or treat, and more. Children are encouraged to wear costumes.
DATE: Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
LOCATION: Bell Tower Shops, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers
INFO: www.belltowerfl.com

Trunk or Treat Ave Maria

Candy, games, costume contest, themed live music, DJ, food and beverages, and more.
DATE: Oct. 25, 3-6 p.m.
LOCATION: Ave Maria Town Center, 5076 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria
INFO: www.avemaria.com

5th Avenue South Halloween Spooktacular and Trunk or Treat

Food, candy, games, costume contests, live music, and child-friendly performances.
DATE: Oct. 25, 3-8 p.m.
LOCATION: Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples
INFO: www.fifthavenuesouth.com/halloween

City of Naples Trunk or Treat

An event full of scary activities, food trucks, live entertainment, and more.
DATE: Oct. 25, 6-8 p.m.
LOCATION: Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples
INFO: www.naplesgov.com

GTLC’s Annual Trunk or Treat

Wear your costume, bring a treat bag, and vote on your favorite decorated trunk.
DATE: Oct. 25, 6 p.m.
LOCATION: Gateway Trinity Lutheran Church, 11381 Gateway Blvd., Fort Myers
INFO: gtlc.org

Looking for other family-friendly Halloween and Fall activities? We compiled a list of Halloween events, fall festivals, costume contests, pumpkin patch, hay rides and more In Collier and Lee County. For events a little further out, check out our list of Halloween fun at nearby theme parks.

The post Best Trunk or Treat Halloween Events in Collier and Lee County for a Safe & Fun Halloween appeared first on SWFL Family.

The strong scents of incense and marigolds, and illumination from candles (or more recently, strings of twinkling lights) will help guide the ancestors home, where lively musicians and dancers await in plazas and public gathering places to entertain them.

At home, the family will have prepared an altar, or offrenda, with candles, papel picado (colorful paper flags as delicate as snowflakes), pictures of the departed, and representative things they enjoyed in their earthly lives. There will also be offerings of a special bread called pan de muertos, chips, water, fruits, and and some of their other favorite foods. Special highlights are artful cardboard or papier-mâché skulls, or even sweet meringue delicacies called sugar skulls. Private family traditions may include storytelling, songs, and poetry. 

It’s only the fragrance of the food that lures the ancestors – because, technically, skeletons can’t eat, you know. Some say that the next day the food has no taste because the essence was already enjoyed by the spirits.

Local Experience

Naples Botanical Garden

La Catrina herself will make an appearance in the form of four spectacular sculptures throughout Naples Botanical Garden during its weekend-long Día de Los Muertos fiesta on Saturday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m.to 7 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There also will be live and DJ music by David Munoz and DJ Vamanos, respectively, plus folkloric dance performances, arts and crafts stations, and family-themed activities on the Performance Lawn. For adults and younger foodies, there’s a drop-in program called “The Spice is Right: Spices of Mexico” in the Scott Florida Garden. Inside Kapnick Hall are several offrendas created by members of the community, and a memory wall where guests may post their own tributes using materials provided. 

Taco Tummy Food Truck will be on hand with authentic Mexican fare, and the garden’s Fogg Café will offer a special chicken flautas dish created from a family recipe of two café staff members.

naplesgarden.org/series/dia-de-los-muertos-celebration

Full Immersion

Fort Lauderdale 

Grab your skeleton costume and head to Fort Lauderdale for one of the biggest and most joyful Día de Los Muertos fiestas outside of Mexico. Day of the Dead, now in its 15th year, is a free day-long family festival attended by thousands. More than 100 performers will entertain on the Folklorico Stage, showcasing indigenous and traditional folk dance and music from Mexico and throughout Latin America. There will be food trucks, street performers, sugar skull face painting, mask painting, puppet-making and other traditional Mexican craft booths, and other kids’ activities. 

The evening begins with the spectacular Skeleton Processional through downtown Fort Lauderdale. Young mariachi musicians lead dozens of skeletal puppets up to 18 feet tall animated by professional puppeteers from Puppet Network and the Puppet Guild of South Florida. After the Skeleton Processional, the all-ages street party continues with more entertainment, vendors and food.

dayofthedeadflorida.com

The skeletal form of La Catrina was inspired by late 1800s political printmaker José Guadalupe Posada, who used skulls and animated skeletons (calaveras) to poke fun at Mexican market vendors who put on airs in the feathers, flowers, and finery of high European fashion, and white makeup to make their skin look pale. La Catrina gained new fame from a 1940s painting by Diego Rivera. Ever since, modern celebrations of Día de Los Muertos feature lots of elegant Catrinas, in parades, festivals, and public art.

Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett loves a backstory. She believes that immersing in history and authentic cultural traditions enriches the travel experience, and that exploring the world changes life perspective. Sometimes that world is just upriver (watch for her Fossil Quest in next month’s issue), and occasionally, she confesses, the immersion starts with an excellent animated movie. (See: Coco).

Go to our calendar of events for additional Dia de Los Muertos events

neafamily.com/calendarofevents/events

The post Dia de Los Muertos: Reunion with the Ancestors appeared first on SWFL Family.

You can celebrate the seed-to-snack simplicity of one of fall’s favorite snacks – popcorn – with crunchy desserts that pair perfectly with your favorite spooky traditions. Popcorn’s smell, taste and versatility help it enhance Halloween as a budget-friendly solution for ghostly gatherings.

Embrace the taste of autumn – pumpkin spice – with a snack that allows you to indulge throughout the season. These White Chocolate and Pumpkin Pie Spice Popcorn Bites offer warm flavor without the scare. Simply pour melted pumpkin pie spice-seasoned chocolate over popped popcorn, toss with toffee bits and sea salt then break into bite-sized chunks for a seasonal sweet that’s perfect for celebrating National Popcorn Poppin’ Month.

Visit Popcorn.org to find more Halloween-inspired snacks.

Go for a Ghoulish Snack Bar

Encourage a little devious creativity this Halloween with a popcorn bar (char-boo-terie board) that features everyone’s favorites. Start with enough freshly popped popcorn to feed all your little zombies and vampires, then add seasonal favorites like candy corn, chocolate candies, individually wrapped treats, dried fruit, nuts, and beyond. 

To pop popcorn on a stovetop, cover the bottom of a 3- to 4-quart pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil (don’t use butter, it will burn). Place 3 kernels of popcorn in the pan, cover with a loose lid that allows steam to escape and heat. When the kernels pop, pour in enough popcorn to cover the bottom of the pan, one kernel deep, then cover the pan and shake to evenly spread the oil. When the popping begins to slow to a few seconds apart, remove the pan from the stovetop. The heated oil will still pop the remaining kernels.

White Chocolate and Pumpkin Pie Spice Popcorn Bites

Servings: 12 

• • 12 cups unsalted, unbuttered popped popcorn

• • 3 cups chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips

• • 1 tablespoon light olive oil

• • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

• • 1/2 cup toffee bits

• • 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt, crushed

Line large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Place popcorn in large mixing bowl.

In microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate, olive oil and pumpkin pie spice; microwave on medium 2-3 minutes, or until melted and smooth, stirring after each minute.

Pour melted white chocolate mixture over popcorn; add toffee bits and toss to combine. Transfer to prepared baking sheet, spreading to edges of pan; sprinkle sea salt over top.

Let cool; refrigerate 1-2 hours, or until set. Break into chunks for serving.

Tip: Homemade pumpkin pie spice can be made by combining 3 parts ground cinnamon with 1 part ground nutmeg, 1 part allspice and 1 part ginger.

Source: Popcorn Board

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One year later, the boys are now 3 and 2 years old, and the Clevenger family has added one more blossom to the family crops: daughter Avery was born in August. Currently, they are preparing for their popular fall festival, which Farmer Mike delights in hosting each year.

How did your husband and you meet? My husband and I met at a small gym run by some of his friends. I had recently gotten my Jeep Wrangler lifted, and it came back with all sorts of problems. I walked out of the gym one night and saw (another) lifted truck. I busted back in the gym saying “Whose truck is that?” Mike looked up from his workout. I asked him who did the lift. He said he did it himself. He walked outside to look at mine, and the rest is history.

What were your thoughts about marrying a farmer? I actually come from a farming family. My father is a tomato and pepper breeder, and my mother and aunt worked out in Immokalee on a farm where my sister, cousin, and I spent a lot of time growing up. When we started dating and I mentioned the Clevenger name my father was thrilled. He had known Mike and his father over the years through farming. 

What is Farmer Mike’s U Pick? My father-in-law – Farmer Mike, Sr. – has been running Farmer Mike’s U Pick for over 20 years in Bonita Springs. Five years ago, my husband “Farmer Mike, Jr.” found himself going back to his roots, wanting to grow the family farm. He took over everyday operations. We quickly implemented a strategy to share the farm experience with the community and started hosting the fall festival. A little over two years ago, we started our wholesale foodservice distribution, which supplies produce and flowers straight off the farm to local supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants. We strive to grow the cleanest and freshest produce and enjoy watching the community out on the farm, excited to be picking their own produce.

What are your jobs on the farm? I currently host all the school field trips around the farm, as well as birthday parties and special events, and now run our annual Community Supported Agriculture program.

How do your children help with the farm? The kids love to “help” me with field trips. They can both pretty much recite word-for-word the tour I give since they are with me every day. My husband and father-in-law can’t wait to put them to work on the water wagon in years to come! 

What would surprise us about life as a farming family? It never ends. My husband’s phone goes off at all times with problems that he must tend to. Especially during rain storms, from a light rain to a hurricane (such as recent Hurricane Dorian), he doesn’t sleep. He and my father-in-law stay on the radar until it passes. In farming you don’t really have control,  Mother Nature does so it’s stressful since it is what provides for our family. 

What does your family love about farm life? Being a part of an awesome family business that is constantly growing is my favorite thing. The hard work, dedication, and long hours that everyone puts in to make it successful are so humbling, and it teaches the kids great work ethics. The kids love tractor rides with Dad, running barefoot through the farm, and picking and eating everything right off the plants.

Do your kids eat their vegetables? Yes! Every night I cook multiple veggies for dinner. Broccoli, romanesco, carrots, and cauliflower are some of their favorites. Although their favorite way to eat vegetables is straight off the vine at the farm. They eat heirloom tomatoes like apples! 

Have you ever lost your kids on the farm? Last year, my sister and I were running the ticket booth during the fall festival, and the boys were running around playing with another boy, per usual. I was watching them and noticed Carter (he was 1 at the time) went behind a food trailer. My kids have never been wanderers, so I wasn’t too worried. I finished my transaction and I walked back to grab Carter. He wasn’t there. Pure panic set in as it was the parking lot right behind the trailer. My husband, my sister, and I took off in separate directions looking. I frantically ran to the parking lot manager and told him stop every car before they leave and check the car for Carter. After about five minutes of frantically running through the farm looking for him, my sister saw him with the mother of the boy he was playing with 50 yards away on the pumpkin patch. I’ve never been more scared in my life. We bought tracking devices to clip to them both after that. 

Describe your experience going from two to three kids. Honestly, it has been the easiest transition for me. I run a tight ship with rules, routine, and high expectations of their behaviors, which has made the transition easy, because essentially nothing has changed; there is just a little girl tagging along. We have resumed our normal daily routine with play dates and errands as we wait for field trips to start up in October.

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There is always this sense of excitement in the air when October rolls around. Costumes are proudly displayed in stores, candy
 adorns the grocery aisles, and kids seem to talk endlessly about what they are going to be. But for a mother, thoughts of too much candy and expensive costumes are what’s on her mind. This year, why not take the thrill of
Halloween into your own hands?
Find a cheaper costumer (or gasp, make it!), sort through your child’s candy bag (or eat it!), and embrace those little voices that beg to share their latest fad with you.

Here are 11 ways to find a cheaper costume for this year’s Halloween:

1. If costumes are too expensive
for you this year, check out
the regular toy aisles for every day
dress up outfits. Halloween costumes can be marked up just because, so go for one of your kiddo’s favorite heroines and reuse it at your next dress up party.
2. Twinkle Twinkle Little Store and Once Upon a Child in Naples carry costumes at a discounted price, and they will buy your old costumes.
3. Call a friend and swap your child’s Hulk outfit for their Ironman one.
4. Shop online. Amazon and Ebay are both great websites to use when you are looking for more affordable options.
5. Make your own. Take ideas from Pinterest and find items you have laying around the house. Make a list of the items you do not have and grab them the next time you are out so that you are not worrying about it.
6. Post a message on Facebook and let friends and family know that you are looking for costumes. Borrow or “rent” one for a few rolls around. Costumes are proudly displayed in stores, candy dollars and save yourself a trip to the store.
7. Garage sales are one of the best places to find costumes. Seriously. Especially newborn to 12 months age where they cannot really be worn again as dress up outfits. At that age, you wear them once and that is it. Take advantage of one mom’s love for buying expensive tutus and turn it into one of your best saving money moments.
8. 
Consignment stores are a great place to find gently used costumes.
9. 
Price match. This is a big one. Some stores like Wal-Mart will actually match any competitor’s lower price. Most stores will adjust the price of an item if it has gone on sale within 14 days of when it was purchased. It never hurts to ask.
10. Lay-a-Way. If your child absolutely has to have the most expensive or one-of-a-kind costume that cannot be found anywhere, ask the store if lay-a-way is an option.
11. The number one tip for getting the most ridiculously priced costumes? Snag ‘em up right after Halloween for the following year. Most costumes are marked down by 70-90% off their original prices.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor this year as your kids walk out the door in their new-to-them, cheap-to-you costumes. Less time worrying about money means more time diving into the candy.

MEAGAN RUFFING is a parenting journalist and stay-at-home mom to Dylan, Hannah, and Ellie Rose. She plans on getting her kids the costumes they want this year without breaking the bank.

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But for children with food allergies, digestive diseases, Celiac’s disease, diabetes, or other special diets, Halloween can be a tricky time. Many popular treats that families pass out to trick-or-treaters are not safe for these children and they come away disappointed with their Halloween haul.

According to foodallergy.org, one in 13 children has a food allergy, and even a tiny amount of an allergen has the potential to cause a severe reaction. Candy often contains some of the most common allergens, such as nuts, milk, egg, soy and wheat. Many miniature candy items do not have individual ingredient labels, which can make it difficult for parents to determine if it is safe to eat.

The Teal Pumpkin Project, inspired by a local awareness activity run by the Food Allergy Community of East Tennessee, became a national campaign by the Food Allergy Research and Education nonprofit organization in 2014. Families participate by displaying a teal pumpkin and/or sign at their home indicating that there are non-food treats available for trick-or-treaters. The goal of the Teal Pumpkin Project is to make sure that all children come home on Halloween night with treats that they can enjoy and feel included with their friends.

Estero mom, Rachel Cohen and her four year-old son, Eli, are allergic to tree nuts, peanuts, soy, and gluten. Last Halloween, Rachel spread the word about the Teal Pumpkin Project in her neighborhood and was thrilled that nearly 20 houses participated. When she found out that her daughter Sarah would be on the October Neapolitan Family cover with teal pumpkins, she was excited to help raise awareness about food allergies to the whole community.

“I am so happy that our community is spreading the word on the Teal Pumpkin Project so children don’t have to feel deprived of a good time and receive good “treats” that won’t make them sick,” Cohen says. “Painted rocks, seashells, stickers, Play-Doh, bubbles, pencils, and many more are all great treats for the children with allergies, and it doesn’t cost a fortune.”

How do I participate?

•  Buy a teal pumpkin or paint one.
•  Download a free, printable sign here and display at your home.
• Use the hashtag #tealpumpkinproject on social media to help spread awareness.
• Change your profile picture or cover photo by downloading the logo above or sharing this fun video on your social media.
• Spread the word among your neighbors and at your school, religious organizations, and clubs.
• Host a teal pumpkin party and have children paint and decorate teal pumpkins for their home.
• Provide non-food treat options for trick-or-treaters.

Ideas for Non-Food Treats

• Glow sticks, bracelets, or necklaces
• Pencils, pens, crayons, or markers
• Bubbles
• Halloween erasers or pencil toppers
• Mini Slinkies
• Whistles or kazoos
• Bouncy balls
• Finger puppets or novelty toys
• Coins
• Spider rings
• Vampire fangs
• Mini notepads
• Playing cards
• Bookmarks
• Stickers

For more information please click here. Neapolitan Family will share information about any public event or community participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project this Halloween season on our website and social media. Please send details to info@neafamily.com.

“The TEAL PUMPKIN PROJECT® and the Teal Pumpkin Project® logo are registered trademarks of Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE).”

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