Spookless hayride offers fall fun for youngsters

In the news

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Cooler autumn weather has arrived, and that can only mean one thing — Halloween!

So in the spirit of the season, Maryville Parks & Recreation has scheduled two witching-hour-themed events next month.

The second annual Middle School Halloween Dance will take place from 6:30-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 21, at the Maryville Community Center, 1407 N. Country Club Rd.

Tickets to the dance, which will be chaperoned by Parks & Rec staff, cost $10 per person. Students from all area schools are welcome.

The evening will include a costume contest with prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place along with games and other activities.

Also on tap for the fourth weekend in October is the department’s first-ever Not So Scary Hayride for children up to 7 years old.

The guaranteed non-spooky event will take place from 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, Oct. 22, at Judah Park.

In addition to a hayride, activities are to include a search for the Great Pumpkin, story time, a Monster Mash dance, and Hy-Vee Pumpkin Time. Tickets cost $10 per child and $7 for each additional youngster.

Registration for both events continues through Friday, Oct. 21, at the Community Center or online at www.activityreg.com.

For more information, call Jordyn Swalley at 660-562-2923.