Halloween parties with costume contests everywhere, some with bands as well. (Just ask mom):
— Since the Willow River Saloon in Burkhardt is in the same building as Carbone’s, you can arrive a little early to their Halloween party on Saturday night, Oct. 26, have some pizza, then go dance it off and possibly claim one of three cash prizes in their costume contest. The band Still Runnin’ will provide diverse sounds and encouragement to those who are dressed up to strut their stuff, and get some cool stuff, namely monetary prizes and drink specials.
— Mom truly knows best, even on Halloween. She will be the main one to select nominees for prize-winning costumes at the Kozy Korner Halloween party on Saturday night, picking out the top three or four dressed-up people, who then will be given a chance to strut their stuff for a $100 prize for best costume, and gift cards for second place. Judges at the North Hudson grill and bar will gauge the crowd to determine exactly when to hold the selection time, but it will be around 11 p.m. The party officially begins at 8 p.m. and goes to close. “That’s gives people a good three or four hours,” one of their openers said about the chance to be seen. There will be Happy Hour all night and free jello shots.
— Across the street in North Hudson, the Village Inn will have a zombie theme and costume prizes at their Halloween party on Saturday night, which will also feature the band Rhythm Roosters. And also in North Hudson, a mile to the south of the other events on the main drag, there is a party with prizes for costumes slated at Seasons Tavern. So, if you are a dress-up professional who wants to hit as many parties for prizes as possible in a short time — and we know you guys are out there — this Saturday might be just the thing for you.
— This Saturday is also the last chance to walk the Dreadwood Haunted Forest at the County E paintball course northeast of HUdson, and perhaps visit one of the consoling psychics on hand as you exit their maze. The forest is so spooky that a flyer takes 106 words to describe all the necessary precautions, medical and otherwise, for walking this fright fest. Tickets are $12, with $2 off if you bring a canned good or non-perishable food item. A portion of the proceeds go to charity. All visitors in line by 10:30 p.m. will be admitted. But if you go, keep in mind their motto: “No hayrides. No escape. No mercy.” For more information and directions, call (651) 224-3003 or visit info@dreadwoodhaunt.com.
— River Falls is also haunted. The Corner Saloon is having the band Haunted Wisconsin bring-in their hard rock sounds for a concert on Saturday night.