Here in Novato there’s no shortage of Halloween excitement to go around. Throughout October, the streets become lined with pumpkins, Novatans start preparing their costumes and store shelves are filled with haunted decor and orange-hued candy treats. This year, Halloween falls on a Wednesday, but many Novato events take place far before the last day of the month.
The Novato Halloween festivities begin with a free outdoor screening of Disney and Pixar’s ‘Coco’! The perfect animated adventure for Halloween, ‘Coco’ tells the story of Miguel as he travels through the Land of the Dead in search of his long lost relative. Hosted at Pocket Park (behind the Novato Gymnastics Center), the screening will take place rain or shine so mark your calendars and don’t forget your lawn chairs, blankets and snacks.
The spookiest Novato tradition returns this year on October 20, 21, 26 and 27. 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 and bring just $5 with you.
Next up is the annual Not-So-Scary Halloween Magic Show on Saturday, October 20 inside City Hall. Magician Mike Della Penna returns to wow audiences with his sleight of hand and Halloween themed excitement, and promises to be super fun for all ages. Magic begins at 6:00pm.
On Friday, October 26, Novato’s Scream on the Green officially kicks off with Friday Scream! Catch the first glimpse of the “Chamber of Horrors” Haunted House and jump house on the City Green from 5:30pm-9:30pm.
Saturday, October 27 Scream on the Green continues with the Fall Carnival 10am-4pm. This full day event will include activities, live performances, a costume contest as well as the infamous Chamber of Horrors.
Running in conjunction with the Fall Carnival is Novato’s Safe Trick-or-Treat Downtown on Grant Ave. From 10am-2pm you can bring your ghouls, goblins, fairies, and witches to visit the retailers of the Downtown Business Association for sweet treats.
For those over 21, HopMonk Novato is hosting their annual Halloween Party Saturday, October 27. Starting at 8:00pm, the evening will include a live performance by band Pride and Joy and award-winning food and drinks.
Now that your calendar is full, it’s time to get your costume ready for Saturday’s contest. 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 less expensive 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 and Costco, both 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.
Pocket Park: 950 Seventh St. Novato CA 94945
Novato Horsemen’s Haunted House: 600 Bugeia Lane, Novato CA 94945
City Hall and City Green: 901 Sherman Ave, Novato CA 94945
