Save the Date: 2020 DPR Fall Festival and Halloween Events

By: Cynthia Booth, Senior Public Affairs Analyst

Amid COVID, Halloween will look a little different in Durham this year. Durham Parks and Recreation will host several contact-free Fall Festival and Halloween events in October. We will follow the social distancing protocols provided by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as participants enjoy virtual events as well as fun filled drive-through experiences from the comfort of their home or vehicle.

At the drive-through events, masks are not required but those attending the movie on the lawn will be required to wear a mask. A costume mask should not be used as a substitute for a cloth mask unless made of two or more breathable fabric covering the mouth and nose. Also, costume masks should not be placed over a cloth mask as it will make it hard to breathe. Instead, it is suggested that participants use a Halloween-themed cloth mask over the costume mask.

Most of the events are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required. Space is limited, and participants are encouraged to register early. Children, teens, parents, and/or guardians will enjoy tricks and treats at the events listed below:

Virtual Vamp It Up (Ages: 2 – 5)
Friday, October 30
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Friendly vampires, ghosts, and goblins are invited to a virtual costume party. Participants can dress in their Halloween best and enjoy some spectacular games, crafts, and fun. Supplies will be provided by contactless pick-up at Edison Johnson Recreation Center (500 W. Murray Avenue, Durham, NC). 

Fright Night
Friday, October 23
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Pineywood Park - 400 E. Woodcroft Pkwy, Durham, NC

Ghosts and ghouls will enjoy an evening that is sure to have them howling with screams and laughter. Participants can dress in their Halloween attire and enjoy drive-through trunk-or-treat, haunted drive-through trail, and a socially distanced movie on the lawn. The movie playing will be James and the Giant Peach.

Trick or Treat Stay 6 Feet

Friday, October 30
6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
Holton Career and Resource Center - 401 N. Driver Street, Durham, NC

Halloween will be different this year, but the need for candy hasn't changed! This will be a contactless drive-up event to provide free candy and treats to children. Registration is required, per child. Supplies are limited, so sign up early!

HallowEno
Saturday, October 31
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
West Point on the Eno - 5101 N. Roxboro Road, Durham, NC

Durham's 32nd Annual Hallow-Eno will be a fun event for the entire family! Participants will enjoy a drive-through style event that includes Halloween decorations along the Park Loop, trick-or-treat activity stations, and live Halloween music from the comfort and safety of their vehicle.

Full Moon Fever Bike Ride - Halloween/Blue Moon Ride
Saturday, October 31

Experience the American Tobacco Trail at night at our Full Moon Fever Bike Ride with the Durham Community Trail Watch group! The ride has two starting times and locations.

• 7:30 p.m. - First Ride Start Time (32 miles): Meet in front of Mellow Mushroom (410 Blackwell Street) in downtown Durham and ride down the American Tobacco Trail and meet the second group at 8:30 p.m. in front of Bean Traders (105 W North Carolina 54).
• 8:30 p.m.- Second Ride Start Time (16 miles): Meet in front of Bean Traders (105 W North Carolina 54) on Hwy 54 at Fayetteville Street, and ride to the New Hope Church Road Trailhead, and then turn around.

Virtual Dias de Los Muertos (Ages: 3-5)
Monday, November 2
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Dias de Los Muertos is a lively Mexican holiday designed to celebrate family members' life and memory. Participants will learn about this tradition on zoom through music, crafts, and treats. Supplies will be provided at a contactless pick-up at Edison Johnson Recreation Center on Thursday, October 29.

Visit DPR online for more details or to register for an event. Durham Parks and Recreation provides opportunities for the Durham community to Play More by connecting our whole community to wellness, the outdoors, and lifelong learning. To learn more about Durham Parks and Recreation, visit us online, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, or call (919) 560-4355.