On Saturday, October 25th, rain could not stop the downtown Halloween Hoopla parade and trick-or-treating hosted by Community Services. The day started as roughly 2,000 community members dressed in costume paraded down Santa Cruz Avenue to Fremont Park. Once there, children and their families were entertained guessing how much the giant pumpkin weighed (47 pounds!), how many candies were in the candy jar, and an assortment of crafts for all ages, supplied this year by Cheeky Monkey. A magic show provided by Pete G. marked the first official use of the City’s new mobile hydraulic stage trailer. All children received a free treat bag and were invited to trick-or-treat at Downtown Menlo Park merchants. The success of this event was due in large part to the efforts of the Menlo Park Chamber of Commerce, Menlo Park Police Department, and volunteers from Hi-Five Sports.

On Wednesday, October 29th, the Onetta Harris Community Center also hosted their annual Halloween Spooky Carnival with games, face painting, balloon animals and of course, candy galore! A new record was set for attendance with over 150 families representing the many different faces of the Belle Haven neighborhood.

On Thursday, October 30th, the regular weekly Tot Lot program at the Arrillaga Family Recreation Center had a special Halloween twist! In addition to the usual play equipment of bounce houses, cars, scooters, and balls, staff provided Halloween-themed carnival games and crafts. The result was a smashing success! With 32 kids and at least 28 adults, Halloween Tot Lot accommodated 60 people in costumes and smiles! We invite parents, grandparents, and caregivers are invited to come by for this drop-in play program every Thursday morning from 9:00-11:00 am for just $5 and hours of fun! Keep an eye out for other upcoming themed Tot Lot festivities between now and the end of the year!