Tricks, treats in store for Mozingo

Mozingo Lake Recreation Park kicks off the area Halloween festivities this weekend with what has become an increasingly popular annual event.

The Mozingo Haunted Campground is entering its ninth year, and takes place Saturday.

Organizer Twyla Martin started the event with her husband Tom after a trip to southeastern Nebraska.

“Indian Cave Park near Brownville has a two-weekend event with decorating, haunted hay rides, and more,” Martin said. “We saw that as a possibility for Mozingo Lake as well.”

Campers are encouraged to decorate their campsites. Prizes for the top three will be awarded.

Pumpkin carving begins at 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The top three pumpkins will be awarded, but there will also be several consolation prizes.

A pumpkin cannon will be on site to shoot pumpkins into Mozingo Lake.

Trick or treating will last from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and campers will provide treats for the children. There will also be numerous inflatables for children starting at 5 p.m., including a haunted inflatable forest, slides, and a bounce house.

Kettle corn, homemade doughnuts, coffee, and hot chocolate will also be available at the event.

Martin said she is excited.

“I can see this really growing each year,” Martin said. “With the help of the City of Maryville and Mozingo park employees, it really comes together for a really good time for the kids.”