Children Activities/Parties for Halloween

Dear R.,

I think one of the best free activities around for ages 1 to 11 is the Fall Festival held at The Heights Baptist Church in Richardson. The church is located at the corner of Renner Rd. and Central Expressway. Their festival is usually held either Halloween night or the Wednesday, prior. It is inviting for all ages, and they encourage children to wear non-scarey costumes. Each year, the church has a different theme...western, rock-n-roll, super heros, etc. They usually have bounce houses, petting zoo, carnival style games and rides where children can get candy, and a concession that sells popcorn, hot dogs, drinks, and chips. Last year they even had a Christian Rock group perform that catered to small children. My daughter has attended since she was two, and she looks forward to this more than trick-or-treating.

We wish a postive experience in whatever you decide for your toddler and you.

I second the recommendation for the Big Orange Pumpkin Farm in Celina. Last year I remember seeing that BOPP also operates a smaller pumpkin patch at Owens Farm (we love taking trips there because it's free!!) in Richardson. I haven't been to that one, but maybe someone else will chime in as to whether or not it's worth it since it would be so much closer for you.

The Big Orange Pumpkin Farm in Celina is great! We go every year. Boo at the Zoo is fun ( Dallas Zoo ) as is Scare on the Square in downtown McKinney. I haven't been to Autumn in the Arboretum, but the Arboretum is always fun and it's so pretty down there. I've heard that Stacy Furniture in Allen has a trick or treating event w/ hot air ballons, but I've never been. Check out Dallas Child magazine for October. They always have a full listing of all the things going on for Halloween.

I loved the Pumpkin Patch at the Arboretum last year. They have lots of cute places to take pictures. There are hay bails and other fall decorations (and of course tons of pumpkins to buy or just enjoy!) There are also picnic tables and lots of green space to enjoy a picnic basket lunch (you are allowed to bring in food or they have cafe there). There are also other pumpkin patches that let you pick your pumpkin, go for a hay ride, or pet farm animals. It would be a bit of a drive for you, but we love the Big Orange Pumpkin Farm in Celina and would reccommend it. Hope you have a great holiday!

My church, Northwest Bible Church has had a fall fun fest on Halloween since I was in junior high (20 years ago). I am so excited to take my daughter this year. There are tons of activities for kids of all ages. The church is located at the corner of Norhtwest Highway and the Tollroad.

The Owens Farm Pumpkin Patch is run by the Celina Family that has the Big Orange Pumpkin Patch. They have the same activities, just a little different setting. Both are great!