CALEXICO — The City of Calexico Recreation Department opened its doors for the first annual Halloween Carnival on Monday evening, October 31st.
The Calexico Response Department is known in the community for providing art, sports, dance and entertainment classes to enhance the lives of community members.
Keeping their vision in mind, the first Halloween Carnival was a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for children to enjoy.
“It’s the first time we’ve had anything on Halloween night in a long time, we’re very excited to offer something for the community,” said Norma Gerardo, manager of the Recreation Department.
The center had haunted house-themed decor, with ghosts and lanterns all around to get families into the Halloween spirit.
“Right now it’s all about getting them to start coming and having fun and then going out and trick or treating,” Gerardo said.
The first families to arrive were treated to a free hot dog and soda ticket. Inside, the center had free Halloween carnival game stations for kids.
Norma Gerado explained the importance of this holiday in Calexico and what she envisions for future Halloween carnivals.
“This is very important for families to come and know about events like this, there’s not always a lot going on in the city, we want to bring more into the community, as we grow we hope to be able to use the parks and have bouncy castles. for the children”, said Gerardo.
During the party, the DJ announced a cake walk activity for the first ten children to arrive at the designated station.
“The children walk in a circle, they stand in a number while the music plays. They walk and when the music stops, we pick a number from this jar, let’s say seven. Whoever landed on seven will win a cake,” explained Emily De La Mora, a volunteer and Calexico High School senior.
As the fun continued, the center also provided an arts and crafts section and a bingo room to win more prizes and treats.
The City of Calexico Recreation Department kept their doors open until 7pm for more families to come join in the fun.
