On All Hallow’s Eve, better known as Halloween around these parts, Oct. 31, the City of Rushville, in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation Department, the Rush County Fraternal Order of Police and WIFE 94.3 FM will be hosting a Happy Halloween Spectacular at the Rush County Fairgrounds’ Livestock Pavilion.

Sign-up for the sixth annual event begins at 5:30 p.m. and the costume contest and judging will begin promptly at 6 p.m. The event is free for all ages, and all children will receive a treat bag.

Costumes will be judged in six different age groups: 0 to 4, 5 to 8, 9 to 13 and adult. In each age group volunteers will give out six prizes.

Categories are scariest/ugliest, cutest/prettiest and most unusual.

A total of 36 prizes will be awarded, six prizes in each age group.

“We are still in need of donations of money and or candy,” event organizer Carla Sharpe said. “We are also in need of a few more volunteers. I can use all the help I can get. I need a few more judges, people to help decorate, people to help with bag treats, and crowd patrol.”

Sharpe said that this is the perfect way to kick off an evening of fun.

“Young and old alike will want to participate in this fun event,” Sharpe said. “Each and every participant will receive a treat bag full of goodies and a glow-in-the-dark necklace compliments of the Parks and Recreation Department.”

As mentioned, the event will be held at the livestock pavilion at the Rush County Fairgrounds, something that worked out well last year.

“Last year, this place worked out great. We don’t have to worry about inclement weather. If it rains, let it rain, we’re safe. It won’t be raining on our parade. Our goal is to start judging promptly at 6 p.m. to get everyone judged, prizes handed out, pictures of winners taken and treat bags handed out, and then get all the little goblins on their way to go trick-or-treating,” Sharpe said.

A costume contest does not require patrons to spend a ton of money.

“I would just like to add that this does not have to be an expensive event,” Sharpe said. “This is free of charge to all who attend. Pull something out of your closet and dress up or be creative and throw something together. In the five years I've been doing this I've seen so many wild, crazy, cute, neat and off-the-wall outfits. I wouldn't want to be a judge. Especially for the little kids, they are just too cute. Don't get me wrong, going to Wal-Mart and buying your outfit is cute too, and saves time. It's fun for all ages!”

Questions may be directed to Sharpe at City Hall, 932-3735.

Other area haunts include:

n Boondocks Farm: Located at 8001 S. Grant City Road near Knightstown, this large farm features an eight acre corn maze with a tribute to the Superbowl champions, the Indianapolis Colts; 12 varieties of pumpkins; a pumpkin launcher; haunted woods trails (Friday and Saturday only); hay rides and live bands and entertainment. For prices and hours of operation call (765) 345-2020, or for more information visit www.boondocksfarms.com.