Halloween is here again, Jack O’Lanterns are out in force, and many of Novato’s traditional Halloween events take place the weekend before. So check out our Spooky Schedule and don’t miss out on frightening Halloween fun.
The Novato Chamber’s epic Scream on the Green Fall Faire kicks off on Friday the 25th at 5pm on Sherman Green, with the Scream on the Green Haunted City Hall, plus Cars and Candy, a creepy salute to Novato’s automotive legacy. Things go into even higher gear on the 26th from 10am till 4pm, with more chances to explore the Haunted House, plus Fall carnival fun and live entertainment. Check out the official Scream on the Green site for more info.
Of course, the Halloween fun doesn’t stop at Sherman Green. Saturday is also the day to visit local retailers in Downtown Novato for Safe Trick or Treat. Kids of all ages are welcome to head for Grant Avenue and enjoy some local haunted hospitality, in a safe, family-friendly atmosphere, from 11am till 2pm.
Another Novato Halloween tradition, the Novato Horsemen’s Haunted House is known for its frightening twists, turns and all around creepiness. For those that dare to visit, head to 600 Bugeia Lane from 7 to 10pm on the 25th and 26th. Bring $6 with you for admission.
What about pets in costume? Where should they get their Halloween on? That would be Woodland Pet Food & Treats in Pacheco Plaza, at 4pm on the 31st. The Halloween Pet Parade and Contest is a benefit for local rescue group Hopalong & Second Chance Rescue, a local non-profit who has saved over 24,000 animals since their founding in 1993. 100% benefits local rescue group Hopalong & Second Chance Rescue, a local non-profit who has saved over 24,000 animals since their founding in 1993.
For a grown-up good time at Halloween, the HopMonk Tavern throws one of the best parties around. Looking to show off your Halloween costume? Head to the HopMonk on Saturday the 26th, where popular Bay Area party band Pride and Joy will be pumping things up with soul and funk live. You can book your tickets online for this big Halloween night out.
Now that your calendar is full, it’s time to get your costume ready. For you crafty folks, visit Art Zorro on Grant Ave who has plenty of inspiration and ample supplies to help get your costume up and running. Alternatively, Goodwill has inexpensive options that are sure to check that final piece off your list. If you’re short on time, you can find ready-to-go costumes at Target in Vintage Oaks. Five Little Monkeys on Grant carries fun costumes for kids year-round.
For festive decorations, start with your jack-o-lantern. Pumpkin carving necessities can be found at Safeway, Whole Foods or Trader Joes. Each will have pumpkins of all shapes and sizes along with carving kits so every member of your family can create their own masterpiece. Armstrong Garden Center also has a huge selection of pumpkins and gourds.
Finally, what’s Halloween without plenty of candy? Stop by Nugget, Lucky or Grocery Outlet to make sure you’re properly stocked with sweets for the little goblins that will be visiting your door. And if you really want to impress the kids (or the sweet-toothed grownup in your life) Celine’s Sweets on Grant Avenue has the most impressive selection of specialty candies you’re likely to find.
Happy Halloween from the Novato retailers who appreciate your business!