The Haunt - West Michigan's largest haunted attraction returns with 25,000 sq. ft. of professionally designed and created sets, a complex series of rooms and corridors and dozens of creepy characters lurking in the shadows. Outside, The Dark Maze offers 15,000 more sq. ft. of twists, turns and dead ends. New for 2009: a scream-fest experience called Claustrophobia and The Haunt dancers will perform sets choreographed by Yessy from So You Think You Can Dance. Opens October 2.

Nights of Fear - The haunted attraction, formerly in Muskegon, has moved to Plainfield Ave in Grand Rapids for 2009 and has expanded to 32,000 square feet. Join Nights of Fear for three all-new haunts: learn the tools of the trade in the Ravens Way Mortuary, then try to find your way through the House of Shadows, and then beware of the twisted side show of clowns gone bad in the Carnevil 3D. Also features "Buried Alive", the area's only virtual reality burial simulator, as well as concessions, photo ops and all indoor waiting. General admission is $14. Read More

Forest of Fear - Opening October 2nd, the Kentwood Jaycees' outdoor haunt near Patterson and 84th St SE in Caledonia returns for an eighth year. Walk through five chilling acres of woods and swamps inhabited by ghosts, ghouls and other terrifying creatures. Tickets: $13 for adults and $8 for kids under 10.

Witch's Walk - The premise for this haunted corn maze, located near 6 Mile Rd & Fruit Ridge NW: when clearing a field to plant corn, a farmer came across an old cemetery and tried to avoid it as he plowed and planted around it. Some graves, however, were not marked and were subsequently disturbed. Since then, strange sounds have been coming from the field and former graveyard. The Witch's Walk is a half mile of twists and turns over this disturbed burial ground. Ticket prices are $10 (coupons available at witchswalk.com)

Witches of New Salem - Enter the Witch's Woods in Dorr (south of Grand Rapids) and explore the houses and shops of the turn-of-the-century town of New Salem, which has been taken over by evil witches looking for their next victims. Thrill-seekers can also enter the 15 acre corn maze, armed only with a flashlight. Cost for each haunt is $13 or $20 for both; opens Oct. 2.

Frenzy Haunted House - Frenzy, downtown Allegan's new haunting adventure, is comprised of the Blackwoods Saw Mill and No Way Out maze. It boasts a “real” haunted sawmill, where local lore holds that real disappearances have occurred at the location in the past. It can take up to 30 minutes to see both attractions and mini films and a shaking floor greet people at the entrance. Combo tickets are $16; open Tuesdays-Saturdays October 2-31. Read More

Carlson's Crypt Haunted Trail - Located in Belding, Carlson's Crypt has both daytime activities for younger kids and nighttime haunted attractions for adults and kids 10 and older. During the day, kids can work their way through the corn maze and pick and carve pumpkins. At night, bring a flashlight to the Night Maze or take a chance on the Haunted Trail. Admission to the Haunted Trail is $13 and is open on Friday and Saturday nights until midnight. Corn maze cost is $3-$6.

YMCA's Fear Forest - Do you dare walk through the Fear Forest at the Wolverine World Wide Family YMCA in Belmont? The unexpected is just around the corner, so watch your back! Cost is $5 per person; open one night only, October 30 from 6-9 p.m.

Halloween Haunted Forest - It's a night you will want to forget at Winstrom Park in Holland (located just west of the Park Township Airport). Be prepared to have the daylights scared out of you between dusk and 10:30 p.m. October 23, 24, 30 & 31. Admission: $5; 4 and under are free.

Haunted Hall - This year the Haunted Hall operators have a hilariously hideous treat...after three years of searching, their Fear Experts have discovered the most gruesome local story yet: The Pyscho Circus. Located in downtown Grand Haven; tickets: $6. Open Fridays and Saturdays in October from 7-11 p.m.

Trail of Terror - Run through the haunted woods in Holton and avoid chainsaw-wielding madmen, scary clowns, ghosts, goblins and other ghouls, on Fridays and Saturdays, October 9-31. Tickets are $12, with VIP skip-the-line passes available for $17. Open to all ages, but parental discretion advised.

West Michigan Haunt Park - Located just north of Kalamazoo near D Ave & 131, Pyscho Ward offers two attractions for $15. In the notorious North Carolina Psychiatric Facility, avoid the infamous butcher Floyd Cranston and his gang of deranged lunatics. Outside, put your fears to the test in the Dark Maze & Zombie Bayou where horrifying zombies stalk visitors' every step. Open Fridays and Saturdays in October beginning Oct. 9.

The 2nd Floor - The all-new attraction above Monaco Bay and Wild Bull Saloon in downtown Kalamazoo is part of the Block of Terror. The story: One often hears a slight moan from the second-story abandoned factory window. It's easy to dismiss due to the constant, howling wind. But if you listen closely you will hear the screams and cries of a generation of workers who have never left. What strange happenings exist on the second floor? There's only one way to find out. Open Thursdays-Sundays, Oct. 1-31. Admission: $11-$16 regular; $15-$20 express

Crane Orchard Haunted Corn Maze - The haunted attraction at the Fennville orchard opens at dusk October 2 and is not recommended for kids ages 10 and under. $14 gets you into both the corn maze and a special effects 3-D barn. During the day, Crane has hayrides and u-pick apples.

Phobia House - The all-inclusive indoor and 3-D haunt in downtown Kalamazoo is back with 2009's theme, 'Torment and Torture (13 Centuries of Pain)'. You never know what you might find lurking in 16,000+ sq ft of dark halls and twists during the 20 to 30 minute tour. Tickets are $15 and include a free pair of 3-D glasses.

Halloween Scream - The Double JJ Resort in Rothbury presents Harvest Weekends featuring the Halloween Scream October 16-17, 23-24, and 30-31. Halloween Scream begins at 7 p.m. and includes The Haunted Barn, (not recommended for children under 10) and The Haunted Hayride (great for families). Pricing for Halloween scream events are $10.00 each or both for $15.

Haunted Cider Mill - The old cider mill at Country Farms in Charlotte returns with new scary scenes for 2009. Dare to venture into the haunted mill that has been transformed into 4,000 square feet of spooky fun on Friday and Saturday nights beginning October 16. Admission is $7. A non-scary nighttime hayride through the orchard is also available for $3, as is a corn maze for $3.

Ripley's Haunted Acres - Terror awaits those who enter the woods, haunted barn and corn maze of the fabled Maple Valley at the attraction located in Vermontville (southeast of Grand Rapids). Opens October 2 and runs through Oct. $25. Admission to individual activities are $8-$10 for adults; combo tickets are $20.

The Haunted Jail - The smell of fear resonates from the old jail in downtown Big Rapids, the cells of which have a history of paranormal activity. Be on the lookout for 'Bloody' Mary Sullivan, Franklin 'Death Row' Prescott, Christopher Mills Killjoy and a host of unsavory characters who made the jail their final resting place. General admission is $10; open Fridays and Saturdays through October. Not recommended for children under 13.

Hubbardston Haunted Library - Dare to visit the only haunted library in Michigan. Located about 20 miles east of Belding, the library is open October 29, 30 & 31 from 7-9 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for kids 6-12 and free for 5 and under.

Shadows in the Shed - In Hart, come face-to-face with a six-foot Freddie Kreuger, be in a room alone with the Puppet Master and his victims or watch a jack-in-the-box come alive right before you very own eyes. 20+ rooms of terror in total that are not recommended for children under 10. Admission is $8 per person, or $30 per carload.

The Niles Haunted House Scream Park - The nationally-recognized haunted attraction near the Michigan-Indiana border has welcomed more than 1,1000,000 visitors to its three haunted houses, haunted hayride and Field of Screams over the years. The main haunted house is all new for 2009, claiming the biggest and most blood-curdling experience this side of the Continental Divide. Other themed attractions include Redneck Revenge, London Screams After Midnight and the Dark Terror-Tory Haunted Hayride. Admission prices range from $3-$10 per attraction (combo tickets available) with proceeds benefiting many Michiana charities. Opens September 18.

Hayrides & Cornmazes

Robinette's Hayrides - Belgian draft horses take visitors on an authentic hay wagon through Robinette's apple and fruit orchards on Saturdays (10a-6p) and Sundays (noon-6p) during September and October. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids under 12. The cider mill, bakery and wine tasting room are also open. Located at the corner of the E. Beltine and 4 Mile Rd.

Robinette's Corn MAiZE - New for 2009, the area's first MAiZE features an intricate network of twists and turns carved into 6.5 acres of corn. The correct pathway can be walked in 25 minutes, but most maze-goers will require at least an hour to solve the mind-boggling puzzle and find the exit. Pricing: $7.50 for adults, $3.50 for kids 3-11 and free for kids 2 and under. Open September 8-October 30.

Klackle Orchards - Fall Family Fun Days return to Klackle, located on the west side of Greenville. $8 admission includes wagon hayrides and the enchanted pumpkin ride, entry to the petting zoo, corn maze, putt putt pumpkin, coaster slide areas and more. U-pick apples, pumpkins and pony rides are also available. Kicks off September 12 and runs through Halloween.

Fruit Ridge Harvest Festival - It's good old fashioned fun at the 125-year old Fruit Ridge Farm in Kent City. Beginning September 19, huge draft horses pull visitors through a woods, pumpkin patch and orchard. Back at the barn enjoy apple cider, homemade doughnuts, petting zoo, children's play area, corn maze and more. Hayrides and the corn maze are $6 each per person and can be combined for $10.

Hayrides at Koetsier's - The greenhouse on Spaulding Ave SE in Grand Rapids features hayrides on Fridays and Saturdays in October. Inside, the greenhouse buildings are transformed into a fall family fun play area geared for kids 10 and under with inflatables, games, pumpkin painting and a maze.

Post Family Farm - Farm Festival Days at the Hudsonville orchard are held for six consecutive Saturdays (mid-September through Halloween) and feature hayrides, pumpkin patch, pumpkin train rides, corn maze, crafts, games and more. Admission is $6 per person; open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides at Moelker - Hayrides take place each Saturday in October from noon until 5 p.m. at the orchard located just west of Wilson Ave and Millenium Park in Grand Rapids. Cost is $4.50 for adults, $3 for kids (under 2 are free). Moelker also has special activities for kids, pumpkins, apples and cider.

Wells Orchards Corn Maze - The working family farm on Kenowa Ave SW along the Grand River features a corn maze, apples, peaches, painted pumpkins and a farm market.

Orchard Hill Farm - Free hayrides Saturdays and Sundays at the Caledonia farm from about 11 a.m. or noon until dusk, plus a cornmaze ($2 admission), non-scary story house for kids, nature trail and make-your-own full size scarecrows ($10).

S&S Farm Market - Located on M-37 in Middleville, S&S has hayrides, a corn maze, petting zoo, inflatables, pumpkins, greenhouses and more kids activities. Admission is $5 for kids, but includes 2 adults free of charge. Hours: 9-5:30 on Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. on Sundays

New Salem Corn Maze - The 15-acre corn maze opens September 26 at the farm in Dorr and features a smaller maze cut within for toddlers and little kids. Other activities include a giant slide, farm tours, a pumpkin patch and live country and bluegrass performed by local musicians. $2-$7 per person.

Hayrides at Bethke - At Bethke Farms in Grand Haven, the 20-minute hayrides take visitors through fun scenes and 'The Spooky Woods' for $3. U-pick pumpkins also available. Open for hayrides weekday evenings and all day Saturdays and Sundays in October.

Gull Meadow Corn Maze - The interactive corn maze and fall activity farm located in Richland (just west of Kalamazoo) features Pumpkin Lane, u-pick apples and pumpkins, wagon rides and the new apple cannons that put visitors' geometry skills to the test. Inside the corn maze, read the stories about local individuals and families who have persevered through difficult times. Admission: $5 for kids, $6 for adults.

Halloween Parties

The Connection: Halloween at Meijer Gardens - Join other young professionals from around Grand Rapids October 22 for a spooky evening with the tastes of local breweries, autumn-inspired appetizers and arts and gardens from 6-8 p.m. Tickets: $15 pre-paid, $20 at the door.

Halloween Costume Show - Monte's and Halloween USA are teaming up for a monster fashion show October 22 at the nightclub on Bridge Street. This year's hottest costumes will be strutted on the runway beginning at 10 p.m. and there will be $2 you-call-its all night.

Pumpkin Carving Night at Monte's - Enjoy a few fun fall cocktails while carving your own pumpkins October 28th. Pumpkins and supplies are provided.

Hallowednesday at SIXX - SIXX Nightclub, DJ JDubb, DJ MattB and 104.5 WSNX Holmes and the Freakshow start the haunting on Wednesday, October 28, with a costume contest and spooky drinks. 18+ welcome.

Wild Bull College Night Costume Party - The October 28 Halloween party at the Wild Bull in Kalamazoo features high-energy dancing with DJ Kane, drink specials, contests and a cash prize for best costume.

Music Industry Halloween Bash - The 'Death at the VMA's' themed event at McFadden's October 29 will have a $150 cash prize for the best costume, $4 Belvedere drinks and $2 Strange Brew beer.

Monaco Bay's Rave from the Grave - Monaco Bay in Kalamazoo presents Rave from the Grave V Oct. 29 featuring dancing with the piano players, drink specials, contests and a cash prize for best costume.

Wild Bull Monster Mash - The 18+ night at Wild Bull in Kalamazoo includes music, dancing, food, drinks, prizes and cash for best costume.

Zombie Walk Before & After Party - Before and after Rob Bliss's Zombie Walk, check out zombie movies all night long, a zombie costume contest, brain eating contest, zombie haiku contest and more at Hopcat October 30 starting at 6pm.

Tribute to the TV Industry Halloween Party - The Oct. 30 TGIF Halloween party at McFadden's pays tribute to the television industry. $150 in cash for best costume and drink specials including $4 Belvederes.

Devil's Night at Monte's - Monte's October 30 Halloween party.

Devil's Night at The Tap House - D James and WSNX team up to present the Devil's Night party that will have $300 in cash prizes for best costumes, drink specials and live DJ's throughout the evening. Cover: $5 for 21+, $10 for 18+.

Zombie Prom - Celebrate Devil's Night at Louie's Bar on Bridge St with the first annual Zombie Prom, that will immediately follow Rob Bliss's Zombie Walk. Enjoy live music from Juleus, Stockton, and the Envy League, plus DJ Rodney Essenburg rocks out on the new patio. Special prize for the king and queen of Zombie Prom. Tickets are $10; ages 21+ welcome.

A.B.! and Coconut Brown Costume Party - Best costume will win $250 at the October 30 party at Whiskey Lounge.

Bottom 40 Halloween Party - Hosted by Sazerac Lounge on Plainfield Ave October 30 at 8 p.m.

Carnival of Chaos - The popular annual event at The Orbit Room has been expanded to two nights for '09, October 30 and 31. On both evenings, local hard rock and metal bands including Weddg, Blood That Burns and Kill Tomorrow will perform, Miss Pussykat & the Devil Dolls will return and there will also be body suspensions and costume contests. Tickets: $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

Trolley of Terror - Monte's wants to keep Halloween partiers safe this season with the Trolley of Terror that will stop at Monte's, O'Toole's, Republic and Rockwell's. $5 includes unlimited rides between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. and two drink tickets. Runs October 30 & 31.

Murder at the Masquerade - On October 30, put on your costume, get out your masquerade mask, grab your magnifying glass and prepare to spend the evening solving a mystery as the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation hosts their second annual Murder Mystery Fundraiser at the Radisson Plaza in downtown Kalamazoo. Cost is $110 per couple, with all proceeds benefiting CFF.

Devil's Night - The all-new Halloween event on the Block of Terror in Kalamazoo will have music, dancing, food, drinks, prizes, live entertainment and acts of the humanly absurd October 30.

Cirque du Scarey - The B.O.B's Halloween party October 31 will pay out $1,000 for best costume and $800 for best 'sideshow freak costume'. WLAV will also be giving out $10,000 in cash and a trip to Vegas. Starts at 8:30 p.m.

Hollywood Halloween - Dress up as your favorite star, past or present, for a night of fame, fun and fund-raising at Republic Oct. 31 from 9 p.m. until 2 a.m. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Helen DeVos Children's Hospital.

Halloween at HopCat - This year's party Oct. 31 will have DJ’s Kid Nice & OBJ spinning tunes, prizes for the best costumes, best dancers, best attitude and whatever other stupid “best of” HopCat can come up with. Last year the beer bar also gave away a trip to Boston and are keeping tight-lipped about this year's travel prize. Starts at 9 p.m.

Halloween at Monte's - The annual costume contest is back at Monte's Oct. 31. with first place receiving a trip to Las Vegas.

7th Annual Monsters Ball - DJ Timbo and DJ Shortee will provide the beats for The Intersection's annual Halloween party Oct. 31. Tickets are $10 in advance; ages 18+ welcome.

Halloween on the Silver Screen - McFadden's Halloween night party will honor movies and the film industry. The main floor will have a cemetery/graveyard feel to it and best costume will win $200.

Halloween Party at Founders - The October 31 party starts at 9:30 p.m. and will have live music with Oracle, Red Frog and Motown Revue. $6 cover.

Billy's Pimps & Ho's Ball - Billy's annual Halloween celebration is back for a fourth year October 31. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the live music and show beginning at 9:30. $5 cover; ages 21+ welcome.

The Déad-utante Ball - On October 31, the ballroom foyer of the J.W. Marriott will be transformed into an old opera house for an adult costume affair with extraordinary prizes. A VIP room with a separate 'ultra-VIP' room will have bottle service and Mixology resident Dj Todd Ernst and guests will provide the Soundscape.

The Score's Halloween Party - The spooktacular party at the sports bar on Northland Drive will have DJames providing the beats, $2.75 Miller Lite pints and a $100 gift card for the best costume.

Jukes Halloween Costume Bash - Misfits Tribute Band Flesh Ancient Monster will be joined on stage by special guests at the Halloween party at Jukes. Kicks off at 11 p.m.

Sky-High Halloween Costume Party - Cygnus 27 atop the Amway Grand Hotel will host the first-ever costume party October 31 with specialty drinks, music spun by Todd Ernst, complimentary ghoulish hors d'oeuvres and a special entree feature. Prizes for best costume include a Four-Diamond Package at the Amway Grand, free Sunday brunch and more.

Season of the Witch Costume Party - The costume party and contest at Flanagan's October 31 will award $100 to the winning costume and 9 Mile Smile will provide the entertainment.

Halloween @ Bar Divani - Enjoy electronic house music at the former Photography Room, now owned by Bar Divani. Halloween costumes encouraged, plus $2 Coors, $7 martinis, special featured drinks and more, starting at 10 p.m.

Lazy Blue Tunas - Live music with the Lazy Blue Tunas at One Trick Pony as they present their Halloween show beginning at 8 p.m.

Halloween at the American Legion - The kids Halloween party begins at 1 p.m. at the American Legion Post 459 on Michigan Ave NE and the adult party with costumes starts at 7 p.m. At 8:30 p.m., the IG'Moo Brother Band will perform live and food and beverages will be available all day.

Halloween Masquerade - Cover charge for the party at Galewood Tavern in Wyoming is $10 or $5 with costume. $100 prize to best male and female costumes. Doors open at 9 p.m.

Halloween Dinner-Dance - The dinner and dance at the Masonic Lodge on Fulton October 31 will feature music by Wally & the Beavs and a gourmet meal presented by GRCC's Secchia Culinary Institute. Tickets are $95 each with proceeds benefiting the West Michigan Learning Center for Children.

Sazerac Lounge Halloween Party - Live music with Papa Vegas October 31.

Bar Louie - Anyone in costume will receive 50% off food orders after 9 p.m. (kids in costume eat free all day) and there will be a costume contest and live music.

Joe V's Halloween Bash - Live music with Jo Grinder & The Felons, plus drink specials and a costume contest. Ages 21+ welcome; no cover charge.

Costume Contest at The Landing - The lounge inside the Radisson on Ann Street hosts the Halloween night party with cash prizes for best costumes along with live music by In The Red and drink specials. No cover.

Halloween at Polish Falcons - The Halloween-night party at Polish Falcons (957 West Fulton) will have a costume party, live DJ and drink specials. Starts at 8 p.m.

The 1st Annual Halloween Blowout - Holland's biggest Halloween bash will have live DJ's spinning the best in reggaeton, r&b, salsa, hip hop, Top 40 and more, plus drink specials. Costumes strongly encouraged but not required. Cover: 18+ - $12, 21+ - $7. Doors open at 6 p.m. Oct. 31.

Jack's Adult Halloween Party - Jack's at the Holiday Inn Spring Lake/Grand Haven hosts the annual party October 31 that will award $500 in prizes for best costumes.

MI Bar Halloween Bash - Mr. Whooha returns to MI Bar on Sherman Blvd in Muskegon for the annual Halloween celebration October 31. Costume contest with cash prizes, live music and more.

Pints and Quarts Party - Pints & Quarts in Muskegon will have live music with Sweet Japonic beginning at 9 p.m. and a costume contest with cash prizes.

Saugatuck Brewing Co. Halloween Party - Catch live music with The Concussions and Delilah DeWylde & The Lost Boys starting at 9 p.m. October 31.

Monaco Bay/Wild Bull KFR Costume Bash - It's the big event on the Block of Terror in Kalamazoo. Check out the carnival atmosphere under the big tent with music, dancing, food and drinks and a $1,000 cash prize for best costume. Free cover before 9 p.m.; $7 after 9.

Papa Pete's Halloween Party - Live music starts at 8 p.m. with Covert Operations and The Hex Bombs.

Teen Halloween at the KIA - The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts' annual event for teens 13-18 is back October 30 and will include a costume contest, dance party, prizes, candy, refreshments and a special performance of 'Frankenstein' by Kalamazoo’s All Ears Theatre. Free tickets available at the KIA or Kalamazoo Public Library.

Halloween Remixed - Halloween continues at The Tap House November 1 with music spun by DJ Grooves, DJ LA and WSNX and $250 costume contest. Cover: $5 for 21+, $10 for 18+.

Cider Mills, Apple Picking & Pumpkins

Ed Dunneback & Girls - Located just 10 minutes from downtown GR on 6 Mile Rd NW, the farm market has been family owned and operated for more than 70 years and has u-pick apples and pumpkins from 11a-4p on Saturdays and noon-4p on Sundays.

Klein Cider Mill - Watch cider made the old-fashioned way and pick your own pumpkin out of the patch at the farm located on 10 Mile in Sparta.

Schwallier's Country Basket - The farm market on 9 Mile Rd in Sparta has u-pick pumpkins and apples, as well as a petting farm, picnic area, fresh cider, cow train rides and an observable working bee hive.

Steffens Orchards - Pick your own apples and pumpkins or build a scarecrow at the Scarecrow Factory at this orchard located on 13 Mile in Sparta. Open Monday-Saturday 10-6 and Sunday 12-6.

Kent Harvest Trails - The trails program highlights 19 participating farms in Kent County which offer local families the chance to visit farms for orchard tours, face painting, pumpkin picking, scarecrow stuffing and many more autumn activities with no general admission charge. Many farms do have fees for specific activities. The website includes a map with all participating locations.

Michigan Apple Orchards - Central West Michigan Route

Festivals & Family Activities

Colorfall - Frederik Meijer Gardens' annual celebration of autumn begins September 18 and features thousands of flowering chrysanthemums both inside and outside, heirloom vegetables, herbs, maize, gourds and giant pumpkins at Michigan's Farm Garden, floral displays by leading area florists, pumpkin carving demonstrations (October 24), costume parade (October 30), cooking demos and more. Tickets ($12 for adults, $4-$6 for kids) includes admission to all areas of The Gardens.

Harvest on the Ridge - Downtown Sparta's family festival September 25 and 26 will offer a BBQ competition, food booths, art in the park show, kids games and inflatables, a farmers market, live entertainment, Michigan beer & wine tasting, scarecrow contest and more. Free admission.

Pumpkin Train - See The Great Pumpkin, Scarecrow and Little Crow beginning September 26 on the Coopersville & Marne Railway. Local actress Eva Swietec and her cast of wacky characters will sing and dance during the approximately 1 hour, 15 minute ride and each child can pick a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch after the train returns to downtown Coopersville. Tickets: adults $14.50, seniors (60+) $13.50, kids (2-12) $11.50.

Fallasburg Fall Festival - The Lowell Area Arts Council hosts the two-day arts & crafts fair at Fallasburg Park September 26 & 27. An annual event for more than 40 years, 85 fine artists will sell their work and visitors can sample food from Lowell non-profit organizations, catch live music and see craft demonstrations. No charge for admission.

Zeeland Pumpkinfest - The three-day family festival in downtown Zeeland returns October 1-3 with a parade, entertainment, food, games, scarecrow, quilt and artwork displays, animals and more. Free admission.

Blandford Nature Center Fall Harvest Festival - Join the Blandford Nature Center October 3 & 4 for a weekend of old-fashioned pioneer fun. The family-friendly event includes activities like a horse-drawn wagon ride, scarecrow making, candle dipping, pumpkin painting, old-fashioned games and toys and more. Admission is $5 for adult, $3 for children (ages 3-17), and kids under 3 years old are free.

Spooky Tunes - Don't miss the collection of favorite Halloween songs set to dazzling special effects inside the Chaffee Planetarium at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Cost is museum admission + $3; runs Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. October 3-31.

Halloween Palooza - On October 3, all Goodwill stores around Grand Rapids will have costume flip books to help find that perfect costume, tattoos, decorations and free goodies for families. Runs 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Fall Family Funday - Celebrate the changing of the season in downtown Holland October 3 with pumpkin painting, hayrides, a pumpkin pie-eating contest and more. Free admission.

Fall Family Days and Herb Fest - The fun fall weekend at Meijer Gardens' Farm Garden will feature fragrant and culinary herbs, fascinating gourds and fun family activities. Visitors will have a chance to taste herb-seasoned foods, play instruments made from gourds, make a tea bag filled with dried herbs and more. Included with Meijer Gardens' general admission: $12 for adults, $4-$6 for kids.

The Great ZooBoo - Hosted by the Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek Wednesdays through Sundays, October 9-31, the family nights will have trick-or-treating, special animal exhibits, live entertainment and the Booville Carnival. $11.95 for adults, children $9.95.

Lowell Harvest Festival - Find an array of things to see and do in downtown Lowell October 10 including arts & crafts displays and vendors, a farmers market, scarecrow hoedown, pumpkin chuckin' contest, a chili cook-off and more. Most events are free.

Wyoming Pumpkin Path - It's the 6th Annual Pumpkin Path at Lamar Park in Wyoming October 10. From 5-7 p.m., kids can get prizes, toys and candy and participate in a pumpkin-carving and decorating contest. Last year's event attracted 70 Wyoming area businesses and approximately 3,000 children. Free admission.

By the Light of the Lamp - On October 10, stop by downtown Holland and experience the Holland Museum's tiny Settlers House and the opulent Victorian Cappon House after dark, lit by the warm glow of vintage lamps and chandeliers. Admission: $7 general/$6 seniors/$4 students.

White Lake Pumpkinfest - Dowling Hill in downtown Montague is the site of the annual Pumpkin Roll happening at 11 a.m. Other events include pumpkin painting, pumpkin bowling, a pumpkin seed spitting contest and Art in the Road. Free admission.

The Zoo Goes Boo - Celebrate Halloween at John Ball Zoo with trick-or-treating, a giant hay maze, fun and crazy gross learning stations, crafts, games and special animal demonstrations. Open October 16 & 17, and October 23 & 24 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. $5 per person ($2 for Zoo members).

Prodigious Pumpkins - Discover gigantic pumpkins at Meijer Gardens October 17-18, weighing in at hundreds of pounds each. Learn interesting facts about pumpkins as you explore the Michigan Farm Garden for answers. Admission: $12 for adults, $4-$6 for kids; includes general Gardens admission.

Ada Autumn Arts Festival - Now in its fourth season, the art event at The Thornapple in downtown Ada showcases the crafts of local artists, along with live music, an auction, raffle, Michigan wine samples, harvest hors d'oeuvres featuring local farm ingredients and more. Date: October 18, 5-8 p.m.; $5 per person or $15 per family.

Ghosthunters - The founders of the West Michigan Ghost Hunters Society, Nicole Bray and the co-author of her books, Rob Dushane, will discuss local paranormal activity, including photos and EVP’s (electronic voice phenomenon). Free and open to the public. October 21-31 at various Grand Rapids Library locations.

1st Annual Barry County Pumpkin Trot - On October 24 at 8 a.m., the Paul Henry Trail in downtown Middleville will be the site of the inaugural 5K run/walk to raise funds to bring Girls on the Run to Barry County. Participants are encouraged to wear family-friendly Halloween costumes. $20 pre-registration, $25 the day of.

Howl-n-Boo - The Humane Society of Kent County present their 5th annual Halloween fun event October 24. Families and kids can bring their pets for trick-or-treating, games, food and a costume contest. All proceeds benefit HSKC.

Batty About Booooks - Batty About Boooks returns again this year to benefit the Grand Rapids Public Schools' RIF (Reading is Fundamental) program. It will be held Saturday, October 24th from 11 AM--2:30 PM at Mangiamo!, with the old Gibson's dressed up to look like a spooky old mansion. There will be a full pasta buffet, salads, bread and drinks, along with a variety of treats. Adults will enjoy the food, fellowship, and Haunted Cellar, and kids will enjoy those as well as the arts and crafts and celebrity readers, including Barnaby from the 95.7 WLHT morning program and Dr. Bernard Taylor. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $5 for children (12 years or younger).

Halloween Hoot - The event for East Grand Rapids residents at the EGR Middle School October 24 will have inflatables, games, special activities and booths for the whole family from 1-3 p.m. Costumes are encouraged.

All Hallows Eve Celebration - The annual event happening 3-6 p.m. October 24 at Historic Charlton Park, east of Hastings, will have trick-or-treating, hayrides, cider and a costume contest. $3 per person.

Spooky Creature Feature Nite Hike - Families are invited to arrive at the Shelter at the Ada Park October 24 to be guided through the trails in the dark where they will encounter spooky and scary (and some not so scary) creatures that will teach about their lives in the wild. Ages 4-adult suggested; costumes optional. $2/youth, $3/adult.

Rockford Halloween Parade - MVP Athletic Club in Rockford hosts its annual costume parade and concert starting at 6 p.m. October 27. Kids must be in costume to participate in the trick-or-treat parade and a concert with Gemini will follow. $5/family for MVP members, $10/family for non-MVP members.

Children Museum's Fall Harvest Party - On October 29 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., children and adults can dress up in their favorite costumes, enjoy fall produce tasting, a special glow-in-the-dark room, farm themed activities, free treats, temporary tattoos and more. Admission is just $1.50 per person.

Vein Drain Blood Drive - Donate blood October 29 at the Michigan Community Blood Center (Leonard & Fuller) and receive passes, t-shirts and posters for Saw IV, plus free food from Max & Erma's. Open 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Ghoulfest - The Kent Philharmonia Orchestra presents its Halloween concert and costume contest for all ages October 29 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Cecilia's Music Center in downtown GR. Free admission.

Grand Rapids Zombie Walk 2009 - Rob Bliss's successful Zombie Walk is back at Calder Plaza (location change from Rosa Parks Circle) for 2009. This year Grand Rapids will try to break Seattle's recent Zombie Walk record of 4,277 participants. The Walk starts at 8 p.m. October 30 and will be followed by a huge electronic music event. Admission is free and participation is open to anyone. The Amway Hotel Collection is also offering special overnight "Zombie Rates" of $79-$99 at the Amway, J.W. & Courtyard Downtown.

Treats and Trails - The Outdoor Discovery Center in Holland presents an evening of family fun, treats and natural wonders. From 5-8 p.m. October 30 & 31, hike or take the hayride through the nature preserve and meet animals along the way. Food and refreshments will be provided and costumes are encouraged. Admission: $5 per vehicle.

Halloween Family Dance Party - The 3rd annual dance party at the Mackinaw Ballroom inside the Grand Haven Community Center October 30 will have a costume contest for kids and adults, Halloween-themed photos, games, food and drinks. Cost is $5 per person with the proceeds to benefit the Typhoon Ketsana victims in the Philippines.

Hallowee-Ones - Frederik Meijer Gardens hosts the Halloween costume parade October 30 in the Children's Garden. Between 10 AM and 1 PM, kids can show off their unique costumes, listen to Halloween-themed stories, make masks and more. Included with Meijer Gardens' general admission: $12 for adults, $4-$6 for kids.

Alger Heights Halloween 5K - The 3.1 mile race begins at 9 a.m. at the intersection of Alger Street and Eastern Avenue on October 31. The course takes a tour around the tree-lined rolling hills of the Alger Heights neighborhood and finishes on the grounds of Alger Middle School. Participants in the family-friendly event are encouraged to wear a costume and enjoy the festivities at the end of the day. $15-$20 race registration fee.

Halloween Party for Kids at Literary Life - The bookstore on Wealthy Street hosts the Halloween day party for kids. Enjoy readings, costumes, photos, drinks, treats and goodie bags from 11 a.m. until noon.

WWW YMCA's Family Fall Festival - Celebrate the 4th anniversary of the Wolverine World Wide YMCA in Belmont with the Farm Olympics, hayrides, bobbing for apples and food. Free event; costumes encouraged.

Trees, Treats, and Tombstones Walking Tour - Visit Oakhill Cemetery on Hall Street in Grand Rapids for a two-hour walking tour of the cemetery's monuments, ecology, history and points of interest, as well as Halloween scavenger hunt. Starts at 3 p.m.

Halloween Hoopla - At Woodland Mall October 31 from 4-6 p.m.

OBB's Family Halloween Party - Old Boys Brewhouse in Spring Lake will have free pumpkin carving, a costume contest and food specials from noon until 4 p.m. Halloween day.

Community Fall Party - Share a safe, warm and free Halloween with activities designed for kids 5th grade and younger at Westwood Community Church (Richmond Ave NW). There will be free carnival games with candy & prizes, face painting, ring toss, frogger and more. Open 7-8:30 p.m. October 31.

Scary Business - From 1-4 p.m. October 31, families can enjoy hay rides, window painting, pumpkin painting and more in downtown Grand Haven.

Halloween Kids Parade & Spook House - The parade in downtown Sparta October 31 begins at the Historic Depot Museum on Union Street at 5 p.m. and continues to the Sparta Civic Center where the Boy Scouts host the annual Spook House.

Saugatuck Halloween Festival - Saugatuck's annual downtown Halloween party kicks off at 10 a.m. with country music, entertainment, story telling and an arts & crafts show with harvest and Christmas items. Parade starts at 4 p.m.

Entertainment & Arts

Paws With A Cause Masquerade Gala - Paws With A Cause celebrates 30 years of service with a masquerade ball at DeVos Place October 24. Blue Man Group will perform as the headliner for the evening.

Halloween Burlesque - Super Happy Funtime returns to the Wealthy Theatre October 24 with an all-new two-hour burlesque show that promises to be bigger than ever with more dancers, funnier skits and more fanciful costumes. The David Lynch-themed performances will have dances based on “The Elephant Man,” “Blue Velvet,” and the Lady in the Radiator from “Eraserhead.” Tickets are $15.

Blue Dahlia and “Nosferatu' - Kalamazoo band Blue Dahlia performs live while F.W. Murnau's 1922 silent horror classic "Nosferatu" plays in its entirety at the Dogwood Center for the Performing Arts in Fremont. Tickets to the October 24 modern music and visual arts collaboration are $10.

Halloween Swing Dance - The Grand Rapids Original Swing Society kicks off Tuesday nights at the Grand Rapids Public Museum with the costume and dance party October 27. Dress up in your best danceable outfit and hear live music from Java Jive. Lessons at 7 p.m. Cost is $4 per person; parking is extra.

Witches Night Out - From 4-8 p.m. on Thursday in the East Hills Business Distric, pick up trick-or-treat bags at local businesses, enter to win prizes and enjoy free refreshments. DJ Rodney Essenburg will spin spooky beats at Muse, Hop Scotch will host a treasure hunt and guests and can bob for apples at Clothing Matters.

Jack the Ripper - The Grand Rapids Ballet performs director Gordon Pierce Schmidt's brand new world premiere at DeVos Performance Hall October 30-November 1. Inspired by London's most notorious criminal, The Ballet takes you behind the famous murder mystery to explore the lives of Jack's victims. Tickets: $20-$53.

Friday the 13th, The Musical - After a couple murders in the 60's, Camp Crystal Lake closed down, but not for good. Old horror stories become wives tales and soon a new bunch of counselors are set to open up camp. However, someone else at the camp begs to differ. Check out the stage version based on the 80's movie with campy musical numbers and lots and LOTS of blood for one weekend only at Dog Story Theater, October 30 & 31. Rated R; $10 for adults, $8 for students.

Wizards and Wands - Back by popular demand, the West Michigan Symphony presents Halloween Pops at the Frauenthal Theater in Muskegon October 30 & 31. New music this year includes selections from 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone', along with spooky by Grieg, Dukas, Mussorgsky and more. Everyone is encouraged to dress in costume for a contest during the event.

Hallowe'en Hafla - The Mayne Dance Studio will have live music, Arabic club dance music, costume contest and more October 30 at the Latvian Hall. Tickets: $15.

Ritsu vs. Nosferatu - The CMC's Wealthy Theatre will host one of Grand Rapids' most exciting musicians, Ritsu, as she creates a live soundscape to accompany the German expressionist film, "Nosferatu", on Halloween night at 10 p.m. Tickets are $2 for CMC members and $6 for non-members.

Scarefest 2009 - The Harbor Theater in Muskegon presents the frightening day-long Halloween experience showcasing the MODERNCINÉ films: "Headspace", "The Girl Next Door", “Home Movie” and the US premiere of the latest MODERNCINÉ feature, Jack Ketchum’s "Offspring". Between movies, grab a beer in the fear garden meet filmmakers Andrew van den Houten and Jack Ketchum and learn more about "Offspring", filmed primarily in Muskegon. $7-$10/movie, $30 day passes.

Trick-or-Treating

Trick or Treat Street - At Indian Trails Camp on Lake Michigan Drive, trick-or-treat in a safe environment, visit themed cabins and eat great food from 6-9 p.m. October 24. Admission is $2 per trick-or-treater and proceeds support the camper scholarship fund.

Coopersville - Bring the kids to Main Street in Coopersville for trick-or-treating at the different shops and stores from 3-4 p.m. Oct. 31. The fun continues after with a Halloween party at the Farm Museum and spooky treats at the Del Shannon Museum.

Grand Haven - Participating merchants around Washington avenue downtown will provide treats for families from 4-6 p.m. October 31. Community trick-or-treating follows.

Hope College - Eight Hope College residence halls will be open for trick-or-treating at the 'Safe Halloween' event in downtown Holland scheduled for 6-7 p.m. October 31. Participation is free, but registration required at the DeWitt Center on Columbia and 12th.

Dates and Times (October 31 unless noted):

• East Grand Rapids: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Grandville: does not set a time
• Grand Rapids: dusk - 8 p.m.
• Ionia: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Kentwood: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Lowell: 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Plainfield Township: does not set a time
• Rockford: 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Sparta: 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Wyoming: does not set a time