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Date: 10/17/2023
CHICOPEE — Come one, come all for a night of Halloween-themed activities, games and treats at the 2023 Chicopee Spooktacular.
The annual event is set to take place on Thursday, Oct. 26 from 4-7 p.m. at Szot Park.
Communications and Special Projects Manager Chloe Soto said the evening is filled with candy, spooky delights, entertainment and community spirit, all in a “safe trick-or-treat festive atmosphere.”
Vendors decorate in a Halloween or spooky theme, handing out free candy and information on each business and its services offered. This includes nonprofits, small businesses and any others interested in participating.
At press time, Soto said the city is actively seeking vendors to table the event. “We want this to be a city-wide event with our stakeholders in attendance,” she added.
Interested vendors can contact Soto at csoto@chicopeema.gov.
Costumes are highly encouraged, as there will be a “best costume contest.” The city will be giving away three Amazon gift cards to first, second and third place winners in the amounts of $75, $50 and $25. “Stay tuned for more details as we approach the event,” Soto said.
Along with the costume contest, attendees can expect an array of games from vendors, a DJ, hot dogs from Chicopee Fresh, cider and donuts from the Chicopee City Council and a hot chocolate stall from Starbucks. Soto noted that there will be other surprises, with specific details to come as the event nears.
There are plans in the works for a battle of haunted buses with two buses confirmed at press time including King Grey Ward — joining again this year — and the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority joining for the first time. Soto said they would love to have a couple more and interested participants should contact her.
The city is also seeking candy donations. Candy can be brought directly to the Mayor’s Office or the police station.
Soto shared that this event serves as a “place to build community.”
Based on previous years, she said the city anticipates a turnout of over 2,000 people but is hopeful for even more as the event continues to grow in popularity.
In the event of inclement weather on Oct. 26, the rain date for the Spooktacular is yet to be determined, but could be on Oct. 27 or 30.
“We’re excited to see everyone at the Spooktacular,” Soto said. “Stay safe and let’s make this year’s Spooktacular the best one yet.”