Gone Hauntin’: 5 Grand Forks Activities to Get You In the Spooky Mood this October

You know what time it is …. spooky season! Grand Forks is a lovely place to lean into all the festivities the season has to offer. From pumpkin spice lattes in the patch to the Rocky Horror Picture Show, our community has something for everyone to jump into the Halloween spirit!

Trunk or Treat is the perfect family event for younger kids. Usually held in a parking lot, creatively decorated cars are lined up full of candy or treats. Families can walk from car to car to “trick or treat” and show off their costumes. Grand Forks has many Trunk or Treat events happening this season:

• • October 22 Trunk or Treat is scheduled for 1pm in the Alerus Center VIP parking lot
  • October 26 Rydell’s Annual Trunk or Treat Event from 5pm – 7pm at Rydell GM location in Grand Forks
  • October 29 Trunk-or -Treat 3pm Sharon Lutheran Church, Grand Forks ND
  • October 29 Trunk-or-Treat 3pm Calvary Lutheran Church Grand Forks ND

Patch on the Point is a family-friendly farm full of pumpkins, games, a tricycle track, pony rides, and more! Wear your best fall outfit because you’ll have photo ops galore. Come hungry! Patch on the Point has local on-site food trucks everyday. You can find out which food truck is available AND special events by checking their Facebook page. I can confidently say the Patch is a great activity to celebrate fall for any age!

If you’re up for a drive, check out Nelson’s Pumpkin Patch located near Emerado, ND. You’ll need more than a few hours to experience this large family-owned farm. Find your way through their 10 acre Corn Maze or hop on the trailer for a hay ride through twists and turns of decorated hay bales. If you’re feeling brave, you can make your way to the Pumpkin Plunge Slide or be thrilled by the Gruesome Granary Haunted House. From the Barnyard Buddies to the Grain Bin Bar, Nelson’s has something for everyone. Be sure to check it out this season and follow for their many events at Nelson’s!

Let me tell you… you haven’t seen Halloween lawn decor until you’ve stopped by Grand Forks’ Halloween House by Kelly, located on 18th Ave South. Year after year, this dedicated family hunts for objects to upcycle in order to create the perfect spooky scene in front of their house. This year’s theme is “Pirates and Sirens,” and includes a giant pirate ship, coral reefs, and zombie mermaids. It’s clear from their guest book, people from near and far make the drive to see this spook-tacular house. If you like what you see, make a donation to Kelly and her family via Venmo and Cashapp: @HHbyKelly!

The Red River Valley’s #1 Halloween event returns for the 20th year at the Empire Arts Center! Last year was my first time EVER to the show and no I didn’t tell them (if you know, you know).  This classic show consists of a viewing of the musical, incorporated with live actors and some experiential fun along the way. This year’s performances will happen on October 27th, 28th and 31st with two shows each night! The first is at 7pm for general admission, followed by the legendary midnight show for 18+ audiences. Prop bags will be available for purchase in the lobby – get excited, people!!!!

And new this year…. THE DENTON AFFAIR – A Rocky Horror Picture Show-Inspired Formal Masquerade Gala on Friday, October 20th.  The Denton Affair will feature a silent auction, games, dinner, and live entertainment. This black-tie event seeks to raise funds for the Empire Arts Center’s 1919 Lounge. Hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be available. This will surely be a night to remember! Get your tickets at empireartscenter.com.

Get into the spirit by creating your spook at home! This is my recipe for a cozy (and spooky) evening in. A few must-haves include your favorite fall scented candle, hot apple cider, and a nostalgic film (mine is Disney channel’s Halloweentown but you could also go spookier). Find some easy spooky snacks to share, such as candy corn trail mix, the Pillsbury sugar cookie dough, and Papa Murphy’s pumpkin shaped pizza. Invite your crew over to share in the festivities or enjoy a peaceful night in.

Don’t miss out on the spooky season this fall in Grand Forks! There is surely something for everyone to experience the lovely colors of fall and the Halloween fun.