Guide to Annual Halloween Activities in Monroe, LA

Halloween is one my most favorite times of the year. It is an excuse to let loose and indulge your freaky side. It is also the day where women find it appropriate to dress inappropriate.

In Louisiana there are many activities to do for Halloween, and that is still the case if you come to Monroe. Louisiana is known for their great parties and food. That does not change just because it is not Mardi gras. Any excuse to party and we will take off with it. In Monroe, Louisiana the party begins at the beginning of October and does not end ontill the day after Halloween.

The festivities kick off with advertising. Yes! When you hear commercials for a local business with the theme song to X-Files or Thriller, then you know its time to pick out your pumpkin. And in Monroe you do not just go anywhere to find a pumpkin. Families off all kinds go to the First United Methodist Church of Monroe. They have a huge pumpkin display. The sizes of their pumpkins range from as teeny tiny as a child’s fist to as large as a beach ball. They hold pumpkin carving classes and hold pumpkin carving contests. The competition is always top notch. Last year the winner carved two pumpkins that looked like Laurel and Hardy.

Once you have your pumpkin needs taken care of and you are in the Halloween mood, it is time for thrills. For good ol’ family fun the corn field maze in north Monroe is a great place. It is literally a corn field that has a maze patter etched out in it. The pattern is different every year.

Another family event every October is right outside Monroe in a little town called Start. Tim McGraw’s Swampstock every year is one of the biggest events to come to the area. Not only does Tim McGraw come but he usually brings his wife and a couple of other celebrities. Proceeds from the concert go to charity.

One of the more interesting events is the Bark in the Park. The event brings pet owners from all over the area to Kiroli Park dressed in little doggie costumes. There are judging contests on best dog costume and best owner/dog matching costume. Also, the dogs can go around trick or treating for dog biscuits.