Halloween 2020 comes with many more safety policies than usual, but that doesn’t mean it has to be any less fun for trick-or-treaters in Western Wake.
To limit the spread of COVID-19, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has made strong recommendations this year to have alternate events that minimize the risk of transmission and limit door-to-door trick-or-treating.
Though many events had to be cancelled, some organizers got creative in order to keep this season spooky. We compiled a list of Halloween happenings in Cary, Morrisville and Apex that are as fun as they are aimed to keep you safe.
The Matthews House
Though it might otherwise be hosting a wedding on a fall Saturday night, The Matthews House decided to do something different with availability on Halloween this year.
The historic house located at 317 W. Chatham St. in Cary is selling $5 tickets for a one-way route through the outdoor grounds to collect candy and treats from local businesses. The event will be from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Halloween.
“We decided to do this because we wanted to do something for the neighborhood,” owner Sarah Chung said. “We knew a lot of people were panicking about what to do with everything cancelled, and we were trying to give an option since we have plenty of space to spread out.”
Masks are required for the event, and costumes are encouraged. For more information, visit the Matthews House on Facebook.
Zombiepalooza
The undead rise again! See this year’s locally produced Zombie short films at the 5th annual Zombiepalooza. This year’s free virtual screening began Friday, Oct. 23, and can be accessed through Nov. 13 on The Cary Theater’s website. Each year, filmmakers are challenged to include a required prop in every film. So, keep an eye out for this year’s elusive toilet paper roll!
While the zombie-themed outdoor street party wasn’t held this year, fans of the undead can still participate in the annual costume contest. Simply share a selfie of yourself or your little ones on the Cary Theater’s Facebook or Instagram through Saturday, Oct. 31, and tag: #CaryZombies. All costumes welcome.
Apex Ghost Trail
Those looking to enjoy the outdoors can find a family-friendly event at Apex Nature Park anytime through Nov. 2.
During the park’s 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. hours of operation, families can walk the Nature Park Ghost Trail, with sights of ghosts, pumpkins and bats along the .60 mile Pine Loop Trail off Apex Barbecue Road.
Walkers can also scan a QR code at the start of the trail to listen to a pre-recorded spooky story as they walk. More information about the event can be found at thehalle.org.
Crossroads Plaza
Crossroads Plaza is hosting a trunk-or-treat event in the parking lot of Best Buy and Five Below from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday.
The event, located at 213 Crossroads Blvd. in Cary, is free to attend and requires masks. It will also include entertainment by North Carolina DJ Split Second Sound.
Wake County Public Libraries
The West Regional, Eva Perry and Cary Regional libraries are participating in Boo! on the Go events held Thursday through Saturday at Wake County Public Libraries.
At each of those locations, kids can pick up a free bag of Halloween surprises. Costumes are encouraged at the libraries, which are holding the event at different times at each location.
