Weekly roundup
Hey Parents! 👋
Can you believe we’re already halfway through October? I swear this month is flying by faster than my kid can get through my candy stash (and we haven’t even trick-or-treated yet!). This weekend is packed with some seriously fun stuff. We’re talking outdoor movies, trunk-or-treats, and a not-so-spooky haunted house. Yeah, you read that right.
Whether you’re fully embracing spooky season or just want to soak up these perfect fall evenings, there’s something for everyone. Let’s go!
Friday, October 17 | 6 PM
🎬 Movies in the Park: "The Addams Family"
Big Spring Park, Downtown Huntsville
There’s something magical about watching a movie under the stars, especially when it’s a Halloween classic like “The Addams Family.” Pack your blankets, chairs, maybe some snacks (or grab something from a nearby restaurant), and settle in for a perfect fall evening. The weather should be ideal for this, and honestly, it’s one of those simple activities that the kids will remember forever.
What to expect: Outdoor movie on a big screen, family-friendly atmosphere, count me in!
Perfect for: Families with kids of all ages who love movie nights and don’t mind a little October chill
Pro tip: Get there early to snag a good spot, and bring extra layers; it gets chilly once the sun goes down. Bug spray might not hurt either!
Cost: FREE!
Friday 7 PM | Saturday 2 PM & 7 PM | Sunday 2 PM
🎭 Cinderella (Children's Theater)
Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy
If your little ones love all things princess and fairy tales, this musical adaptation is calling their name. Fantasy Playhouse always puts on great shows, and there’s something special about watching kids perform for kids. With four showtimes across the weekend, you can pick whatever works best for your schedule.
What to expect: A full musical production of the classic Cinderella story, talented young performers, and that magical theater experience.
Perfect for: Kids who love princesses, singing, and getting dressed up for a special night out
Pro tip: The Sunday 2 pm matinee is often a little less crowded if you prefer easier parking and seating.
Cost: $10 per person (kids under 2 free)
Friday 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
🎃 Farley Elementary School Trunk-or-Treat
Farley Elementary School, 1900 Winchester Rd, Huntsville
Trunk-or-treats are honestly one of my favorite Halloween traditions. You get all the candy and costume fun without miles of walking through neighborhoods in the dark. Plus, some of these decorated trunks are seriously impressive; people go ALL out.
What to expect: Rows of decorated car trunks handing out candy, a safe and well-lit environment, and lots of other costumed kiddos
Perfect for: Younger kids who might not be ready for a traditional trick-or-treating, or anyone who wants a condensed candy experience.
Pro tip: Costumes are encouraged! And if you have a little one who gets overwhelmed by crowds, aim for the earlier side of the time window.
Cost: FREE!
Saturday, October 18 | 3 PM - 8 PM
👻 Halloween Party + Haunted House
Jaycee Building, John Hunt Park
Okay, this is a BIG one. When I say this has everything, I mean EVERYTHING! Inflatables, food, candy booths, games, and even a haunted house that’s specifically designed not to be too scary. It’s basically a fall festival on steroids, and the best part? Completely free.
What to expect: Inflatable bounce houses and slides, carnival games, candy stations, food vendors, and a kid-friendly haunted house that won’t give anyone nightmares
Perfect for: Families who want a full afternoon of entertainment without spending a fortune, or kids with lots of energy to burn
Pro tip: This runs for five hours, so you don’t need to stay the whole time. Pop in for an hour or two, let the kids bounce themselves silly, and head out before the sugar crash hits
Cost: FREE!
Sunday, October 19 | 1:30 PM - 4 PM
🪦 Cemetery Stroll
Maple Hill Cemetery, Huntsville
Before you worry, this is NOT scary! It’s actually a really cool local history tour where costumed guides share stories about notable people buried at Maple Hill. It’s educational, interesting, and way more engaging than it might sound. This is probably for the older kids, though.
What to expect: Costumed historical interpreters, stories about Huntsville’s past, a walking tour through one of our most beautiful historic cemeteries
Perfect for: Older elementary kids and up, history buffs, families who like learning in non-traditional settings
Pro tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes; you’ll be on your feet for a bit. And it’s actually pretty fascinating if you’re into local history!
Cost: FREE!
💡 My Weekend Picks
If I had to narrow it down…
Cinderella at Fantasy Playhouse - Listen, I have an almost-4-year-old daughter who is ALL about princesses right now, so this one’s a no-brainer for us. The fact that it’s only $10 and there are multiple showtimes? Perfect. I’m thinking the Sunday 2 pm matinee, so we can make it a special daddy-daughter afternoon.
Halloween Party + Haunted House - This is Saturday’s winner for sure. When you’ve got inflatables, games, candy, AND a not-too-scary haunted house all in one place for free? That’s a dad win. My daughter would happily spend two hours bouncing around. Plus, the “not too scary” haunted house is clutch for the preschool crowd.
Farley Elementary Trunk-or-Treat - Perfect for Friday night if you want to ease into the weekend without a huge commitment. It’s quick, it’s fun, the kids get candy, and you’re home before bedtime gets too crazy. Win-win-win.
That’s it for this week.
📝 Before You Head Out:
Weather looks great this weekend, but those evening events might get chilly—bring jackets and blankets
Several trunk-or-treats and Halloween events are happening, so break out those costumes early!
Most events are free, which means you can hit multiple things without breaking the bank.
If you’re planning to see Cinderella, book tickets in advance—weekend shows fill up fast.
If you end up at any of these, I’d love to hear how it goes! And if you know of any hidden gems I should include in next week’s roundup, send them my way.
Happy adventuring,
Ryan 🚀