Keep 'Stow Boo-tiful' at 'HalloGreen' Boo Bash

Goblins, princesses and super heroes can get plenty of wear-time out of their costumes by attending Stow's Hallo"Green" Boo Bash Oct. 29 prior to Trick-or-Treat.

Boo Bash, sponsored by , will be held rain or shine from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Oaktree Picnic Shelter at . The free event – designed for children 12 and under, accompanied by an adult – will feature hayrides, a trick-or-treating event, pumpkin-decorating, games and a costume contest.

The Radio Disney Road Crew will be there from 2 and 4 p.m. with music, games, dancing and “a ton of awesome Radio Disney prizes” for attendees.

Linda Nahrstedt, Stow Parks and Rec community information coordinator, said the Halloween party will have a recycling theme.

“We’ve had the event under the name Halloween Kids Day, but haven’t held it the past couple years because of a reduction in funds. We currently have some grant funds from the Summit/Akron Solid Waste Management Authority to promote recycling, so that’s why we’re mixing Halloween and recycling into one event,” she explained.

The combined theme has led parks and recreation staffers to create some unique game and contest ideas, and even a nifty catchphrase: Keep Stow BOO-TIFUL!

Nardstedt shared some ideas for those wishing to compete in the Recycled Costume Contest. “Rather than going out and buying a costume, re-use dad’s pants or mom’s wigs in some way. Or dress up as a pop bottle or something else that represents a recycling activity,” she said.

Trash-themed games on the party agenda include passive events like Recycle Trivia, Recycle Word Scramble and Re-use It Challenge. Those desiring active gaming can play “Sort It,” where families race against the clock to sort bottles, paper and aluminum into their proper recycling bins using long-handled grabbers.

Tractor-led hayrides will be given throughout the event. Nardstedt said two Halloween-decorated wagons manned by costumed parks and rec employees will make repeat trips across the park to Silver Springs Campground. Participants can go trick or treating through the campground, then get back on the wagon for a return trip to the event site.

Activities will be held outdoors under a large tent, so participants should dress for the weather. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. No registration is necessary for the free event. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Parking will be available on both sides of Silver Springs Park on Young Road and Stow Road. A shuttle will be available from 1:30 to 2 p.m. to transport attendees to the event from the ballfield parking lots at the Young Road entrance.

Go onto the Park and Rec Facebook page to !