The Aurora Public Library District is brewing up a cauldron full of Halloween fun this October, with something for every ghost, ghoul, and pumpkin enthusiast! From artsy afternoons to thrilling experiences and frightfully fun films, our upcoming Halloween lineup promises treats with just the right amount of tricks.
Things start off adorably eerie in the children’s department with Haunted Gingerbread Houses Thursday, Oct. 16 and Yarn Monsters Saturday, Oct. 18. “When we make monsters fun, we take away the scaries!” said library assistant, Stef. With all materials provided and easy instructions, families can enjoy crafting time that’s more cozy than creepy.
For adults, our Pumpkin Painting Craft Monday, Oct. 20 invites adults to skip the carving mess and paint their perfect pumpkin instead. Inspired by her own no-carve pumpkin tradition, Library Assistant Colleen encourages participants to get creative with foam pumpkins using acrylic paint and paint pens. “I always look forward to seeing the beautiful creations that our customers make!” she shared. “They always impress me with their designs.” Whether you’re going for spooky chic or farmhouse fall, you’ll leave with a pumpkin that’s perfectly you and good for years to come!
Looking for something a little more hands-on? Try one of our immersive Halloween experiences! Our Trick-or-Treat Sensory Experience for kids Tuesday, Oct. 21 is a delightful mix of spooky and silly. “Kids will use their sense of smell and touch to experience some Halloween-themed objects,” said library assistant, Hannah. From ogre boogers to spider legs, it’s a safe way for kids to explore the fun side of fright. She added “I am most looking forward to the silly reactions from the kids and seeing how much fun they will have!”
If your ideal Halloween plans call for popcorn and chills, the West Branch has got you covered. For adults, the original 1958 The Fly will be shown on the library’s big screen in all its classic horror glory Thursday, Oct. 23. “We featured weekly classic horror movies last October with great success and wanted to offer one this year as well,” said Librarian Mindy. For PG audiences, we’re showing the 2006 Halloween classic Monster House Monday, Oct. 27. In this animated movie, a neighborhood is terrorized by a sentient haunted house! Snacks will be provided but B.Y.O.B. (bring your own blanket) to hide behind.
Teens can test their wits Saturday, Oct. 25 in our Escape Room, a tradition now in its fourth year at Santori Library! Created by the Teen Advisory Board, participants need to solve puzzles in order to complete the challenge and ‘escape’ the room. In this year’s case, you’ll need to escape the lab of an evil, mad scientist! “I love that escape rooms encourage teamwork, problem solving, and creative thinking,” said teen librarian, Phoebe. “Professional Escape Rooms can be expensive to visit with a large group, so this is a more accessible option for teens.”
While teens get to battle science experiments gone wrong, our youngest customers will be dancing, parading, and celebrating in true Halloween style. The Halloween Dance Party and Parade on Halloween morning will be a joyful celebration with music, costumes, special guests Woody and Jessie, and treats from community partners. “It’s pure joy,” shared early literacy specialist, Gretchen. “Seeing the excitement on the kids’ faces as they dance and parade through the library—it’s magic.” The library will also be participating in Downtown Aurora’s trick-or-treating event Saturday, Oct. 25. Visit us between noon and 3 p.m. outside the Lake Street entrance to grab some candy or a bookmark and show off your costume!
As you can see, there’s no shortage of spooky fun at APLD this month! From creative crafts to family-friendly celebrations and teen adventures, our Halloween programs are designed to bring the community together in the spirit of the season. To learn more about our upcoming events, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events or give us a call at 630-264-4117. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.