ELLY GRIMM

   • Leader & Times

Those looking to get some early spooky fun before Halloween will soon have just that chance.

This year’s Trail of Terror will be from 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 at Arkalon Park. Along with serving up plenty of spooks, the event will also serve as a fundraiser for the Liberal Police & Community Association, and the money raised that evening will go toward the LPD & Me Christmas program.

Community Police Coordinator Dalanie Underwood said last year’s festivities ended up very successful.

“We were really proud of how everything turned out last year We were a bit short staffed when it came to actors, which seems to be a thing every year, but we made it work,” Underwood said. “Overall, the event went pretty well. It was raining up until gates opened, which did affect things a little bit, but we still had a great turnout.”

And there will be plenty for patrons to look forward to that evening, Underwood said.

“Of course, the haunted trail is the big draw, but it’s not the only thing! We’ll have food from The Dog House Hot Dogs, Baked & Brewed by Evelyn, Noi's Food Truck, and 5150 Deli for those who want to snap some spooky memories,” Underwood said. “Whether you’re there for the scares, the food, or both, there’s plenty to enjoy. The Arkalon Park board will also be hosting Autumn at Arkalon from 5 to 8 p.m. and they will begin an outdoor movie at 8 pm. This gives other opportunities for families to come out and enjoy Arkalon Park and be a part of the evening. We’re also excited to have the event back on the calendar year after year.”

Underwood added she hopes patrons end up having a spooktacular time.

“If you like a good scare, this is the place to be. It’s a chance to do something different for Halloween, and the best part is that every ticket goes toward making Christmas special for local kids,” Underwood said. “There aren’t strict age limits, but parents should know the trail can be pretty intense. We recommend parental discretion for younger kids because sometimes they love it and sometimes it’s a little too spooky. People come back for the experience, it’s never exactly the same trail twice. We change things up from year to year, so even if you’ve been before, you’ll still find new surprises. For us, it’s rewarding to see it grow into something people tell us they mark on their calendars each fall.”

However, it is not just the patons who look forward to having fun on the trail, Underwood said.

“Our staff members really look forward to seeing how people react on the trail; some laugh, some scream, and some run! It’s fun for us to put together something that surprises people at every turn,” Underwood said. “Honestly, the Trail of Terror is fun for us too. Planning the scares, setting up the trail, and then seeing it all come together, it’s a different kind of teamwork than what we normally do, but just as fulfilling. And knowing the funds help our Christmas event makes the long hours worth it.”

Overall, Underwood said, she is looking forward to another spooky and successful Trail of Terror.

“There will be a lot happening in Liberal Oct. 17. Haunted Oz will be happening from 12 to 8 p.m. at the Coronado Museum – this is a separate event from ours, but it’s a great way to kick off the day,” Underwood said. “Then, Autumn at Arkalon begins at 5 p.m. with pumpkin painting, hay rides, photo areas, and a movie beginning at 8 p.m.. And at 8 p.m., the gates open for our Trail of Terror. There’s plenty happening throughout the day, so come out, enjoy the events, and make the most of the day! We expect a busy night with lots of people ready for some Halloween thrills. Our goal is to keep everything safe, well-organized, and spooky from start to finish.”