Halloween in Loveland: Pumpkin Fest, Drive-Thru Trick or Treat & More
Halloween might look a little different this year because of COVID-19, but the City of Loveland is still going to celebrate.
To get into the spooky spirit, I talked to representatives from Loveland about all the fun (and safe) October events you can attend this year.
Here are seven local events you won't want to miss:
1. Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt (now - October 31)
You may have noticed a few scarecrows hanging around Loveland lately. There's actually over 30 of them, all designed by local artists — and they're for the City's Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt.
"It was a really cool program that got put together...a whole bunch of people worked on this to feature amazing artists, I think we have 19 different artists, that helped to create these sculptures and scarecrows that are all around town. They're super fun ones," said Cindy Mackin, Visitors Services Manager for the City, in our "Tuned in to NoCo" interview.
In order to participate, pick up a map at the Visitors Center or online here. Once you find a scarecrow, upload a photo online using #LovelandScarecrow to win prizes.
2. Downtown Pumpkin Festival (October 24)
The City's first ever pumpkin festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Foundry Plaza. Visitors will get a pumpkin, and then pair up with a local artist to decorate it.
"You can choose an artist to get the supplies to decorate your pumpkin there on-site, or you can take it home," said Abby Powell, Events and Partnerships Manager for the Loveland Downtown District. "There's going to be everything pumpkin available, breads and different food options."
Masks are required and social distancing will be in place, so be sure to secure your ticket ahead of time here.
3. 14th Annual Centerra Halloween Hullabaloo, Drive-In Style (October 30 - 31)
The Halloween Hullaballoo is back this year from October 30-31 at The Marketplace at Centerra. The event will feature three drive-in movies: Hotel Transylvania, The Addams Family, and Monster House.
"All our movie tickets are free. We are working with the Loveland House of Neighborly Service...[guests can bring] cash donations, as well as non-perishable food items and toiletry needs," said Celeste Smith, Senior Marketing Director for McWhinney.
Reservations are required. You can make yours here.
4. NoCo Drive-Thru Trick or Treat (October 31)
Kids can still trick or treat this year from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Ranch in Loveland. Families can receive their candy drive-thru style, and make donations to the Thompson Education Foundation (TEF).
"Our work here at Thompson Education Foundation is to provide opportunities and experiences for the students and staff of Thompson School District. All the proceeds from this event will go directly to supporting students in a time when student support is more critical than ever..." said Kim Akeley-Charron, Executive Director for TEF.
This year's event is sold out, but you can register for the waitlist here.
5. Loveland Zombie Crawl (October 24)
Adults can have fun this Halloween too. Dress up like a zombie and head to Downtown Loveland for a socially-distanced bar bash.
"That event is organized by the Loveland Aleworks team. They have put together an event that will be at their brewery location," said Powell. "It will expand into their back parking lot and you can sign up for specific zombie crawl tickets...it's a whole lot of fun."
Get your ticket for the festival here.
6. Nichos Exhibit: Dia de Los Muertos (now - November 7)
Local artist Armando Silva has created several nichos displays for Dia de los Muertos. You can view his work until November 7 at the Loveland Museum and the Loveland Public Library.
"Ours on display at the Loveland Museum have been filled with altar displays that have been created by local Loveland groups to really display the Hispanic heritage here in our Loveland community," said Powell.
Find out how to view the exhibits here.
7. Loveland Art Studio Tour (October 10-11, 17-18)
If you want to appreciate local art even more this fall, be sure to book an in-person or virtual Loveland Art Studio Tour. Guests can gain creative inspiration while perusing the studios and galleries of local artists.
"It is going to look different, but we are able to do it," said Jill Atchison, Director of the Loveland Art Studio Tour. "The artists are super excited to be able to do something this year, but we are going to be following all Larimer County Health Department regulations."
Activities and goodie bags will also be available for kids. Find more information about the event here.
Learn more about Loveland's October events by listening to the full "Tuned In to NoCo" interview with Cindy Mackin, Abby Powell, Celeste Smith, Kim Akeley-Charron, and Jill Atchison below.
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