It’s ‘Game On’ for trick-or-treaters at Spookwalk 2018

By Kelly Terpstra, kterpstra@charlescitypress.com

Goblins, ghouls, pumpkins and Pac-Man?

Get ready for a video game theme for Spookwalk 2018 – no tokens or quarters required.

“Game On” is the theme this year and don’t be surprised if you see Mario, Luigi, or even the princess from The Legend of Zelda in costume while kids line the riverfront with their goodie bags this Thursday, Oct. 25, in Charles City.

Spookwalk has been a free, fun and eventful trick-or-treat mainstay in Charles City for more than two decades.

“We really wanted to go with something that any generation can embrace,” said Emily Garden, Charles City events coordinator.

More than 1,200 kids attended last year’s Spookwalk, gathering candy and gifts from at least 25 booths put on by businesses or organizations in town.

“It’s one of our longest running Community Revitalization events,” said Garden, who added this year is the 22nd rendition of Spookwalk in Charles City.

Spookwalk runs from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and kids come from all around the area to the Halloween event sponsored by Community Revitalization. Kids aged 12 and under are encouraged to wear their costumes and walk along the decorated trail along the Cedar River to each station.

“There’s just a huge amount of participation in it, community wide,” Garden said. “We’re so lucky to have that community support and we’re really grateful for that.”

The Spookwalk Committee is offering something new this year. A pre-entry period is available from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. for kids with special or sensory needs who may struggle with large crowds. Call the Community Revitalization office at 641-228-2335 or email info@charlescitychamber.com by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 24, to pre-register.

“We’re really excited for that, for being able to accomodate any families that need to come when it’s maybe a little bit quieter or they’re able to navigate the path a little bit more easily,” said Garden.

Garden also said that Perry Novak Electric has donated some lighting to be used at the end of the trail. She also said it doesn’t hurt if families wanted to bring a flashlight or two for the event because some parts of the Spookwalk trail can be dimly lit, especially after sunset.

Setup for booths begins at 2:30 p.m. Thursday. Each booth will be judged and awards will be given in the following categories: Best Use of Theme, Community Revitalization President’s Choice, Mayor’s Choice, and Most Creative.

If there is inclement weather, the decision to postpone the event will be announced by noon Thursday. If needed, the makeup date for the Spookwalk is Monday, Oct. 29.

If one has any questions about the Spookwalk, they can call the Community Revitalization at 641-228-2335 or email info@charlescitychamber.com.