By Brenda Erdahl:
Halloween is almost upon us. For those of you who haven’t made any plans yet, there is plenty of area events to keep the entire family entertained.
Maple Lake Business Trick or Treat
On Friday, Oct. 29, the Maple Lake Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Business Trick or Treat. From 3 to 5 p.m. businesses in downtown Maple Lake, plus MP Nexlevel and a few in the Industrial Park, will hand out treats to children of all ages. Currently, 17 businesses have signed up to participate, said organizer Rhonda Pagel, and she expects a few more to join the fun before the big day. Trick-or-treaters will know which businesses are participating by a poster in their window. Last year the event underwent some changes because of COVID-19, but Pagel expects this year’s event to be more-or-less, back to normal. For instance, last year organizers tried to direct foot traffic in a one-way loop through town to better social distance. They will not be doing that this year. Organizers will, however, encourage businesses to set up their treat tables outside their doors just to keep the congestion down in entryways.
BUCC Trunk or Treat
As part of the Chamber event, the Bethlehem United Church of Christ will again host its Trunk or Treat in the parking lot of the BUCC church on County Road 37 north of town. Trick or treaters are invited to visit anytime between 3 and 5 p.m. Friday night, where they will find 11-plus, decorated vehicles with trunks open and full of candy to be handed out. Trick-or-treaters are encouraged to go down the line from west to east to get their treats.
Halloween Spooktacular
Minnesota Pioneer Park will host its annual Halloween Spooktacular on Saturday, Oct. 30 from 5 to 8 p.m. Thrill seekers can look forward to a Haunted Village, Spooky Trail of Terror, Creep-You-Out Cabin and live goblins, witches and warlocks hiding around the park ready to jump out and deliver a scare. There will also be games in the Big Red Barn plus food, cookie decorating and a bake sale in the Big Woods Building. Cost is $10 a carload and $3 for bikers and walk-ins. Participants are encouraged to bring a flashlight. Minnesota Pioneer Park is located on the east side of Annandale on Highway 55.
Annandale Business Trick or Treat
Annandale will host its annual Business Trick or Treat on Friday, Oct. 29 from 3 to 5 p.m. Although at the same time as Maple Lake’s event, a serious trick-or-treater could make it to both if they hurry.
Trick or Treat Buffalo Merchants
Before heading over to Pioneer Park Saturday, Oct. 30, trick-or-treaters can take part in the Trick or Treat Buffalo Merchants from 2 to 4 p.m. Look for a Trick or Treat the Merchant poster in businesses’ window to see who is participating and be sure to come in costume to receive a free treat. The event takes place in downtown and throughout Buffalo.
• The Maple Lake Elementary PTA has cancelled the Halloween Carnival this year because of the current state of Covid in the local communities and hospitals.