The cast of 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The Petersons. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The cast of 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The cast of 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
By Heidi Sutton
It’s kooky and it’s spooky and it’s hauntingly good. Now in it’s 7th year, A Kooky Spooky Halloween returns to Theatre Three in Port Jefferson to celebrate one of the most popular holidays of the year.
Written by Jeffrey Sanzel and Steve McCoy, the adorable musical tells the story of Abner the Ghost (Steven Uihlein) who has just graduated from Haunting High School and is assigned to be a spooksperson at Ma Aberdeen’s Boarding House, (known for being the most haunted house in Harrison Corner USA and for having the best toast!) as its last ghost, Baron Von Yost, has recently retired. Abner is given a diploma and a medallion of invisibility and is sent on his way with two rules: never haunt before sunset and never, ever lose your medallion.
But Abner has a shocker of a secret — he’s afraid of the dark! When he confides in his best friend Lavinda the Witch (Cassidy Rose O’Brien) she gifts him a nightlight and promises to help him get settled in. With Lavinda’s help, what could possibly go wrong?
It’s Halloween and Abner arrives at the boarding housejust as Ma Aberdeen (Ginger Dalton) and her boarders the Petersons — Paul the periodontist (Liam Marsigliano), Penelope the p.r. professional (Katy Snair) and their daughter Pip (Sarita Alvarado) — and Kit Garret (Julia Albino), a girl who “just came from a small town to a big city with a suitcase in her hand and hope in her heart,” are stuffing goodie bags for trick-or-treaters in the kitchen.
In one of the funniest scenes in the show, Abner tries out a series of spells, making the group stuff the bags in double time, dance, do jumping jacks, sing, spin like a top, quack like a duck and stick to each other. Just as he is about to undo the last spell, fellow graduate ghost with a grudge Dora Pike (Josie McSwane) appears, steals his medallion of invisibility and nightlight and heads to the bottom of Black Ridge Gulch, the deepest, darkest gorge in the entire world (where it’s really, really dark). Now visible, Abner must convince the strangers who are still stuck to each other help him get his medallion back or it will “all fade to black.”
Director Colleen Britt has assembled a terrific cast to tell this hilarious story filled with singing and dancing, action and adventure and tons of Halloween jokes. Ginger Dalton as Ma who makes the toast is especially wonderful. “What kind of toast do you serve? Rye, whole wheat, sourdough, french?” she’s asked. “White. No butter, no jelly … and no jam!” she snaps.
This year’s production has amped up the spookiness with floating ghosts, use of the trap door and more special effects, but don’t worry— it is not scary. The show also makes use of the screens on each end of the stage from the set of ‘Matilda The Musical’ to project images. A nice touch.
Costumes by Jason Allyn in shades of black, orange, purple and sparkly white for the ghosts are the icing on the haunted house cake. Don’t miss this one. You and your kids will have a spooktacular good time. Ghostly pumpkin souveniers will be sold during intermission and costumes are encouraged. Meet the cast in the lobby after the show for photos.
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents A Kooky Spooky Halloween through Oct. 19. Children’s theater continues with Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 23 to Dec. 28 and Hansel and Gretel from Jan. 25 to Feb. 8. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will host a Bizarre Bazaar, a vintage, oddities, art, and alternative market in partnership with The Perks Department on Sunday, Sept. 29 from noon to 5 p.m .
The Bizarre Bazaar will feature a curated selection from Long Islands best makers, pickers, and artists to kick off the Halloween season.
Visitors can expect vintage Halloween decor, rare CDS, vinyl, and cassettes, witchy art and crafts, jewelry, stickers, specialty coffee, pottery, graphic Ts and buttons, collectables and oddities for your curio or just your seasonal decor. Food and beverages, treats, and snacks will also be available.
The event is free, and all ages are welcome! For more information, call 631-423-7610 or visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
This is a view of the 2021 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 21, 2021.
This is a view of the 2021 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 21, 2021.
This is a view of the 2021 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 21, 2021.
This is a view of the 2021 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 21, 2021.
This is a view of the 2022 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 29, 2022.
This is a view of the 2022 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 29, 2022.
This is a view of the 2022 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 29, 2022.
This is a view of the 2022 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 29, 2022.
This is a view of the 2023 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 21, 2023.
This is a view of the 2023 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 21, 2023.
This is a view of the 2023 Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, N.Y. on September 21, 2023.
This is a view of the 2020 The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, NY on October 1, 2020.
This is a view of the 2020 The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, NY on October 1, 2020.
This is a view of the 2020 The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, NY on October 1, 2020.
This is a view of the 2020 The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, NY on October 1, 2020.
This is a view of the 2020 The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, NY on October 1, 2020.
This is a view of the 2020 The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, NY on October 1, 2020.
Marking five years as one of Long Island’s biggest and brightest family-friendly Halloween event, The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is making a return to Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Long Island’s historic 19th-century village, to treat guests of all ages to the most magical Halloween experience yet.
Presented by Catholic Health, Blaze: Long Island will wow visitors with new sites along the pumpkin trail including a Day of the Dead jack o’lantern tribute, a working Ferris wheel that takes Pumpkin Pals for a twirl, and an elaborate Celebration Arch, which is not only a tribute to Blaze: Long Island’s anniversary, but is the perfect backdrop for celebrating special visitor occasions.
This remarkable artistic production, masterminded by Historic Hudson Valley and its renowned creative director Michael Natiello—featured on HGTV, The Today Show, and other national broadcasts—celebrates Long Island’s rich heritage through an impressive display of illuminated jack o’lanterns and intricate pumpkin sculptures.
With over 7,000 jack o’lanterns carved by local artisans, the larger-than-life themed exhibits span a half-mile loop, enhanced with synchronized lighting and an original soundtrack, offering an immersive experience for all visitors.
This year visitors can look forward to:
Long Island Hall of Fame — Celebrate local Long Island icons with intricate pumpkin sculptures of Billy Joel, Joan Jett, Sue Bird, Dr. J, and making their debut this fall, Jerry Seinfeld and Natalie Portman.
Pumpkin Lighthouse — a replica of the Montauk Point Lighthouse featuring a blazing beacon of illuminated pumpkins.
Tribute to First Responders — An awe-inspiring display featuring carved jack o’lanterns depicting a firefighter heroically putting out a flame, honoring the bravery and dedication of our local heroes.
Lady Liberty — A glowing rendition of the Statue of Liberty that features 114 individually carved pumpkins, complete with torch ablaze—an iconic symbol of freedom, inspiration, and hope.
The Pumpkin Circus — A jack o’lantern carnival will come to life with acrobats, clowns, and a sideshow featuring a contortionist, strong man, Montauk mermaid, sword swallower, and a snake charmer.
Custom Pumpkin Orders — New for 2024 guests can surprise a special someone with a custom-carved pumpkin displayed at the new Celebration Arch. Reservations are limited and must be made seven days in advance.
This year also includes live, nightly pumpkin carving by Blaze’s expert team of pumpkin carving artisans, the Blaze Boo-tique featuring seasonal gifts and fun merchandise, and Café Blaze, an on-site café featuring fall treats like cider donuts and pumpkin beer.
Historic Hudson Valley, which develops and produces the event in partnership with Nassau County, is a not-for-profit education organization that owns and operates National Historic Landmarks in New York’s Sleepy Hollow region. Proceeds from ticket purchases support the preservation of Old Bethpage Village Restoration and the educational programming of Historic Hudson Valley.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze runs from Friday, October 4 through Sunday, November 3, with adult tickets starting at $32. In honor of its fifth anniversary, Blaze: Long Island is offering a flat rate admission of $10 for children ages 3-17, while the littlest guests, ages 2 and under, are free. With limited capacity, entry is available only through advance online purchase of timed tickets or FLEX anytime tickets; no tickets are sold at the venue. The event takes place rain or shine. For tickets and event dates, visit www.pumpkinblaze.org.
Scene from the 33rd annual WMHO Halloween Festival. Photo from WMHO
Scene from the 33rd annual WMHO Halloween Festival. Photo from WMHO
Scene from the 33rd annual WMHO Halloween Festival. Photo from WMHO
Scene from the 33rd annual WMHO Halloween Festival. Photo from WMHO
Scene from the 33rd annual WMHO Halloween Festival. Photo from WMHO
Scene from the 33rd annual WMHO Halloween Festival. Photo from WMHO
Scene from the 33rd annual WMHO Halloween Festival. Photo from WMHO
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) hosted their 33rd Annual Halloween Festival on Oct. 31 from 2 to 5 p.m. in Stony Brook Village. The festival was a huge success and brought more families than ever to the Village Center to celebrate Halloween.
Families enjoyed music from WALK 97.5, trick-or-treating throughout Stony Brook Village Center, dancing with Monster Merlin and games for children.
Nightmare Before Christmas
WMHO announced their 33rd Annual Scarecrow Competition winners during the festival. The winners are as follows:
Category A- Professional
1st Place – #310 Nightmare Before Christmas
2nd Place – #111 Grim
Category B – Adult and Family
1st Place – #305 Mr. Margaritaville
2nd Place – #301 Edgar Allen Scare-Poe
3rd Place – #102 On Wednesdays, We Wear Pink
Category C – Children
1st Place – #206 Barbie: You Can Be Anything
2nd Place – #303 Bubblegum Witch
3rd Place – #110 Barbie
This event was sponsored by Long Island Speech, Green Towers Group, News 12 Long Island, Goldfish Swim School, Dr. Robert Quilty, Ph.D and Dr. Rocco Morelli, DDS.
Above, two skeletons take it easy. Photo by Nasrin Zahed
By Nasrin Zahed
Halloween has a rich history on Long Island that dates back to the early colonial days. Over the centuries, it has evolved from ancient Scottish rituals to the modern-day extravaganza of costumes, candy and spooky spectacles.
Halloween’s origins can be traced back to the ancient Scottish festival of Eve of All Hallows, celebrated around the end of October. Though commonly believed to be derived from the Celtics, Henry Kelly, distinguished research professor in the Department of English at the University of California, Los Angeles, has provided the research to debunk such a claim.
“People in Ireland also indulged in similar festivities on the day before All Saints’ Day, including divination games and competitions like apple bobbing,” said Kelly in an email exchange.
Below, Halloween decorations plastered on the exterior windows at the Dance Arts Development Center in St. James. Photo by Nasrin Zahed
Halloween customs came to America primarily through the Irish immigrants in the 19th century. The practice of carving Jack-o’-lanterns, a staple of modern Halloween, is often attributed to Irish immigrants who brought the tradition of carving turnips with them. The orange pumpkin, native to North America, became the go-to canvas for spooky faces and designs.
Though of all the traditions to be brought over, dressing up on Halloween and going door to door is still a bit hazy. “The question of when children started masquerading and going around for treats at Halloween in America needs further research,” Kelly said.
Regardless, Halloween has adapted to become one of the most profitable holidays of the year. Seeing as the United States has a strong consumer culture, Halloween became an opportunity for retailers to tap into this market. Businesses saw the potential in selling costumes, decorations, candies and other Halloween-related products.
There is no question that Long Island has found a niche in that market as fall makes Long Island a scenic destination for all things fall fun.
With its agricultural history, Long Island is also home to numerous farms and pumpkin patches, where families can pick their own pumpkins and enjoy fall-themed activities. Others can enjoy an array of haunted attractions and houses that draw thrill seekers and horror enthusiasts during the Halloween season. Places like Darkside Haunted House in Wading River and Gateway’s Haunted Playhouse in Bellport offer terrifying experiences for those brave enough to enter.
Long Island boasts numerous historical sites with eerie legends and ghost stories.
One of the standout Halloween events is the Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns at Old Westbury Gardens, showcasing thousands of intricately carved pumpkins, transforming the gardens into a mesmerizing pumpkin wonderland. The event is being held through Nov. 2.
Local businesses and communities have embraced the spirit of Halloween, with businesses decorating their storefronts and residents adorning their homes with creative and spooky decorations.
Hailey Hamilton of Old Wood Road, Stony Brook, shared her thoughts on the upcoming holiday, saying, “Halloween in our town is always a blast. The decorations go up, the costumes come out, and the spirit of the season is infectious. It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy some spooky fun with friends and family.”
A fascinating tapestry of ancient Scottish customs, early American traditions and modern-day festivities, Halloween on Long Island is the one to beat. A bewitching experience for all ages, Long Islanders have embraced this holiday with open arms, making it an integral part of their culture.
If you find yourself on Long Island in late October, be prepared for a ghoulishly good time.
From a spooky train ride in Huntington to a Halloween festival in picturesque Stony Brook Village, from a Haunted Hatchery in Centerport to a Halloween hayride in Northport, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the most fun time of the year on the North Shore!
Halloween at the Heckscher
Families are invited to celebrate Halloween at the Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington on Oct. 27 from noon to 5 p.m. Create a spooktacular art activity, make a haunted Digital Action painting, and take home a festive treat! Free admission for kids in costume and their families Register at 631-380-3230, www.heckscher.org
Photo from Celebrate St. James
Halloween Painting Fun!
Celebrate St. James hosts a Halloween Painting Workshop for children at the Calderone Theatre, 176 2nd St., St. James on Oct 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and again from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Costumes encouraged. $25 per child includes painting, all supplies, candy, bagels (a.m.)/cupcakes (p.m.) To register, visit www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201
Heritage Halloween Fest
The North Shore Youth Council presents a Halloween Fest at the Heritage Center, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mt. Sinai on Oct. 28 from noon to 3 p.m. Enjoy pumpkin picking and decorating, a spooky walk scavenger hunt, costume parade, a goodie bag, dance party and more! Registration is $15 per child 12 and under. Parents and guardians are not required to register. Advance registration only at www.nsyc.com.
Trick or Treat Trail
Join the Farmingville Historical Society on Oct. 28 for a Trick or Treat Trail at Farmingville Hills County Park, 503 Horseblock Road, Farmingville from noon to 3 p.m. Come in costume and trick or treat along a trail while learning about the history of candy. Fill your bag with real, full-size candy treats. The entry fee is $15 per trick or treater. Parents are welcome to escort their children without paying. Please note this is not a haunted trail. All Trick or Treaters must pre-register at www.farmingvillehistoricalsociety.org
Lil’ Monsters Halloween Workshop
Children ages 4 to 7 are invited to join Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, E. Setauket for a Lil’ Monsters Workshop on Oct. 28 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Make a tye-dye craft, decorate a cookie, create a lil’ monster or bat craft, and take a tour of the farm with a tractor ride. Come in costume if you like. $55 per child. Call 631-689-8172 to register.
Haunted Hatchery
Calling all ghosts and goblins, spiders and bones … Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will host a Halloween event on Oct. 28 from 2 to 5 p.m. Families are welcome to join them for a not-so-scary Haunted Hatchery. Trick-or-Treat your way through their outdoor grounds. Admission fee is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768, www.cshfishhatchery.org
A Halloween Princess Party
You are invited to a special Halloween Princess Party at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown Performances will be held on Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. and Oct. 29 at 11 a.m.Learn about Halloween traditions from different kingdoms and meet new friends. Be sure to wear your best princess attire OR your Halloween costume — this non-scary experience is a royal trick-or-treat! *Please note that this is a theatrical experience and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are $16 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org or call 1-800-595-4849.
Spooky Walk
Setauket Fire Department, 394 Nicolls Road, Setauket hosts its second annual Spooky Walk on Oct. 28 from 6 to 10 p.m. Come down for some family fun and trick or treating! 631-941-4900
Spooky Train Rides
Join the Greenlawn-Centerport Historical Association for a Spooky Train Ride at John Gardiner Farm, 900 Park Ave., Huntington on Oct. 28 from 3 to 6 p.m. Ride the Lollipop Train, take a hay ride and make a craft (fee). Pies, cider, popcorn and hot chocolate will be available for purchase. $13 per child. Advance registration required by visiting www.greenlawncenterporthistorical.org.
Haunted Boo-seum & Festival
Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for its spookiest event of the year, with fun activities for all ages, on Oct. 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You are invited to go on a spooky walk-through museum exhibits with haunted sea-inspired activities at every turn including Castaway Creatures and Davy Jones Locker where you can meet live critters, sponsored by Gellerman Orthodontics. Tickets in advance are $20 children, $8 adults; $25 children, $8 adults at the door. 631-367-3418, www.cshwhalingmuseum.org
Halloween Hayride
Northport Chamber of Commerce presents the annual Halloween Hayride in Northport Village Park on Oct. 29 from noon to 4 p.m. with hayrides, pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, live music, petting zoo, costume contest & refreshments. Fun for the whole family! 631-754-3905
Halloween Parade
The Community Association of Greater St. James presents its annual Halloween Parade on Oct. 29 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Meet at the Gazebo on Lake Avenue dressed in your Halloween best to parade around the park. 631-360-7620
Halloween Family Fun Day
Family Fun Day is back at the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook just in time for Halloween! Join them on Oct. 29 from 1 to 4 p.m. forpumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, Día de los Muertos crafts related to the ofrenda in the SOMOS exhibition, puppetry from Mascara Viva Puppeteers and much more! Wear your Halloween costume if you wish. Free admission. 631-751-0066, www.longislandmuseum.org
Photo from TOB
Barktoberfest!
The Town of Brookhaven will host the Brookhaven Animal Shelter and Adoption Center’s “Barktoberfest” Howl-o-ween pet parade and costume contest on October 29 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Fireman’s Park, 724 Middle Country Road in Ridge. Children are encouraged to come in costume, ready for Trick or Treating. 631-451-TOWN
Safe Trick or Treat at The Shoppes
The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River invites all goblins & ghouls & children dressed in costume to enjoy a safe outdoor Trick or Treating on Oct. 31 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 631-929-3500
Halloween Festival
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization hosts its 33rd annual Halloween Festival at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook on Oct. 31 from 2 to 5 p.m. with trick or treating in the shops and restaurants, children’s games and Monster Mash dancing — wear your Halloween costume! See if you can scare Monster Merlin and take part in a costume parade at 4 p.m. Free. 631-751-2244, www.wmho.org
Halloween Costume Parade
The annual Downtown “Hauntington” Village Halloween Costume Parade returns to the Town of Huntington on Oct. 31 at 4 p.m. Line-up at the Huntington Post Office, 55 Gerard St., Huntington for a parade through Huntington followed by trick or treating at designated village merchants. No registration necessary. Call 631-351-3173 or 631-351-3085
Commack
Commack United Methodist Church, 486 Townline Road, Commack presents its 6th annualTrunk-N-Treat event on Oct. 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. Children can trick or treat for candy at festively decorated car trunks and truck beds and enjoy games, crafts and activities. Free. 631-499-7310, www.commack-umc.org
Dix Hills
St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 20 Candlewood Path, Dix Hills will hold a Trunk or Treat event for children up to age 11 on Oct. 29 from 2 to 4 p.m. Attend dressed in your Halloween costume and play games out of the trunks of cars to earn candy and prizes at St. Luke Lutheran Church. If it rains, the event will be held inside the school. 631-499-8656
East Setauket
Messiah Lutheran Church, 465 Pond Path, East Setauket invites the community to a Trunk or Treat on Oct. 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. with games, candy, prizes, and fun! Rain date is Oct. 29 same time. www.messiahny.org
Hauppauge
Hauppauge Public Library, 1373 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge invites the community to trick or treat in their parking lot on Oct. 27 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Community members will be decorating their trunks in fun and spooky themes and will pass out candy to trick or treaters. The library will also have snacks, games, crafts, and other activities. Open to all. 631-979-1600.
Rocky Point
The North Shore Youth Council and the Rocky Point PTA present a Trunk Or Treat event at the Joseph A. Edgar School, 525 Route 25A, Rocky Point on Oct. 29 from 2 to 5 p.m. with decorated cars and trunks, candy and non-edible treats, face painting, crafts and photo prop. Costumes encouraged. www.nsyc.com
St. James
Deepwells Farm Historical Society, 2 Taylor Lane, St. James will present Deepwells Trunk or Treat event on Oct. 29 from 11 a.m. to noon. Bring your little ghosts and goblins for a spectacular event!
Yaphank
Suffolk County Farm & Education Center, 350 Yaphank Road, Yaphank will host a Truck or Treat Farm Halloween event on Oct. 28 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission of $15 per child, $5 adults includes truck or treating, trick or treating around the farm, farm animal visits, kids crafts, unlimited wagon rides, corn maze, family games and activities. Come in costume! Tickets available on eventbrite.com. 631-852-4600
'True Danger Lies in the Light' by Natalie Parrott
'Uncanny Grin' by Ryan D'Angelo
'In The Dark' by Ava Beck
'Grace in Death' by Lindsay Connolly
'Fear' by Ava Coco
'Angel of Death' by Samantha Koepele
'Escape My Soul' by Jada Joseph
'A Good Treat' by Clare DeSario
The spookiest month of the year signals the return of the Huntington Arts Council’s (HAC) highly popular annual student exhibition, Nightmare on Main Street, a Halloween-inspired juried art exhibit for Nassau and Suffolk County students in grades 6 to 12. The show opened on Oct. 20 and runs through Nov. 12.
This year’s juror, Holly Hunt, asked students to interpret and represent the concept of fear in their artwork.
“As a professional photographer who regularly submits to art calls and attends gallery shows, I was beyond impressed by the 224 submissions that showcased not only fresh ideas, but a true understanding, yet a broad interpretation of the theme that I presented of fear. The level of skill and sophistication I experienced as I viewed the submissions was mind-blowing,” said Hunt.
She continued, “I had my hands full as I culled through this diverse collection of artwork, not only because of the number of submissions, but I had to balance many factors in my choices; innovation, subject matter, interpretation of the theme, and more, but most importantly, originality — which I know in this day and age is an accomplishment in itself. Many pieces stopped me in my tracks, some at times eliciting an audible ‘wow!'”
Hunt ultimately chose 58 pieces to be featured at the Main Street Gallery.
The additional 110 pieces of student art work that was submitted will be featured on the HAC’s website.
“In it’s 12th year, Nightmare on Main Street represents not only one of our most popular exhibitions, but an incredibly rewarding one as well. The Halloween theme, regardless of how it is interpreted, is a familiar one to most of us. This opportunity we provide has proven to be an accessible and rewarding arts experience for students. Very often this show is a first for many young artists. Seeing their own work in a gallery setting can often be the motivation and encouragement a student needs to continue to create. As a community based organization this show is inspiring to all of us. Please continue to support and encourage our next generation of artists,” said HAC’s Executive Director, Kieran Johnson.
Huntington Arts Council’s Main Street Gallery, 213 Main Street, Huntington is open from Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekends TBD. For more information, call 631-271-8423 or visit www.huntingtonarts.org.
No matter how old you are, there’s something fun about celebrating all things weird and spooky on Halloween. To get into the spirit with your family, consider Rest in Peace (Scoot Comics), an adorable rhyming picture book from debut author Tyler Ham.
‘Rest in Peace’
The story centers around Ghoul who just wants to do is go to sleep after a long Halloween but his monster pals— Dracula, the Werewolf, the Mummy, Frankenstein’s Monster and the Blob — want to keep the party going.
Raised in California, Ham was not one for horror, but he loved Halloween and “slightly spooky” entertainment. Now a father of two, Ham has embraced that lighthearted spookiness with a cast of funny monsters and a positive message of friendship that even the youngest kids can enjoy.
Tell me about your childhood. I assume that you loved horror movies.
I was a very timid child, but I loved Halloween, so “spooky” has always been my go-to genre. It’s funny how much I love horror movies now, because when I was a kid, they scared the heck out of me! I wanted nothing to do with it. But at the same time, I always loved Halloween and mildly spooky things. Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” video was about as far as I could go.
I read something in a book once about the array of emotions we can experience in life that really stuck with me. Basically, you can feel happy, sad, excited in the real world, but those emotions typically come from a place of safety. On the other hand, when you’re scared, it’s because you don’t feel safe. That’s not a feeling that you want. But when you watch a scary movie, you can tap into the experience of being scared in a safe way, and there’s something fun about that.
So did you do a lot of writing in that ‘spooky’ genre as a kid?
I was a creative kid, though more artistic – more into drawing, painting, papier mache, that sort of thing – but never writing.
I wasn’t a great student.I did the work but didn’t particularly enjoy it. And I didn’t like English class, either. But in high school, I had two really great English teachers who actually loved my writing assignments. They said I was a good storyteller and would even read my stuff in front of the class.
When I graduated, I went to film school at California University of Monterey Bay wanting to direct, and the same thing happened. I wasn’t interested in the writing aspect, but was often praised in classes for my screenwriting so it was clearly an ability I had.
After college, I moved back home with my parents and was looking for work. My mom met someone at a charity event who had just opened a new school for 3-D art. I was always curious about that, but didn’t know how to begin learning about it. And then this opportunity came along. I took a tour and enrolled for the next semester, which was only six days away. That experience ultimately took me into the visual effects industry.I spent about 16 years working in the digital effects industry as a 3-D artist for film studios, and then I switched over to the toys and collectibles industry. Writing was something I did for fun.
When did you start thinking about writing a children’s book?
My oldest daughter was one of those babies that just wouldn’t go to bed. She loved to be read to, so we would sit in our chair and read book after book. Over time, I learned that while some kids’ books are great, others are honestly just bad. I knew I wasn’t going to write anything legendary, but I figured I could at least do better than some of the books I’d seen.
So one night, I put my daughter to bed and went into my office. I knew I wanted to write about Halloween, since it’s my favorite holiday and it’s a fun time for kids, and I knew I wanted to have different kinds of monsters. As I wrote, I’d read it to myself and make sure the rhymes felt natural and not clunky.
Did you pursue traditional publishing or self-publishing? What was the process like?
The first draft was actually completed nine years ago. I shopped it around, but no one was biting. I’d get discouraged and leave it for a while, rewrite parts and try again. Eventually I was working for a publishing company in product development, and they would occasionally have employee submissions. The woman who was reading the manuscripts contacted me and said that while my book wasn’t the right fit for our company, it was really good, and she invited me to join a writing group. She was my first mentor, and the book went through many revisions until it was really polished.
Ultimately, a friend of mine wrote a comic book, and his company was starting a children’s book division. I submitted my original Halloween story, along with ideas for other holiday concepts featuring this cast of monsters, like Valentine’s Day and the Fourth of July. They liked the ideas and agreed to publish me.
Do you relate to Ghoul, the main character of ‘Rest in Peace’?
Yeah! It doesn’t make me look great, but I share a little bit of that lighthearted grumpiness — my kids tease me and say “Hey, you’re grumpy like Ghoul is!” But he has good intentions, just like I do.
What was it like seeing the finished product after all those years?
It was just surreal getting those first copies of the book, especially after nine years of work. This story was meant for my first daughter, and it took so long that now I’m reading it to my second daughter’s kindergarten class. She wasn’t even in the picture when this all began!
How did you find the illustrator, Firulas Ilustra?
I found Sâmara, who along with her illustration partner Thaís form Firulas Ilustra, on the social media platform reddit. She lives in Brazil — she had some pictures up and I really liked her style. I could tell right away that she really understood what I was envisioning and connected to the idea.
Do you have plans for future books?
I have plans to publish several holiday-themed books with this cast of monsters! The next book in the series, The Yule Ghoul (available now!) continues the story of Rest In Peace, and has the Ghoul throwing his first Christmas party! He is very excited but is afraid none of his monster friends will come. The follow up Valentine’s day book is written, and a few more are in various stages of completion.
What’s the target age group for ‘Rest in Peace’?
It’s interesting — originally the target age was 3 to 7. But then I read it to my daughter’s 5th grade class and they really loved it. The publisher also suggested that there are 9- and 10-year-olds that would get a kick out of it as well.
Is there a message you hope kids take away from reading this?
Ghoul has this difficulty where he gets so frustrated with his friends being in his space after a long Halloween, but they really just want to spend more time [with him]. It’s about accepting people into your life and being patient with them, even when they do things that you don’t understand. All of our friends have their own little quirks. And I also hope that people see that monsters can be fun!
‘Rest in Peace’ is available now through your favorite online booksellers. Follow Tyler Ham at his official website, www.tylerham.com.
Take part in the annual Costumed Dog Parade on East Main Street on Oct. 21. File photo by Bob Savage
By Heidi Sutton
Looking for something fun to do with the family this weekend? Then head down to the Village of Port Jefferson as it transforms into the annual Oktober Harvest Fest on Oct. 21 and 22 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This year the event will be sponsored by the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and the Port Jefferson Business Improvement District in cooperation with the Incorporated Village of Port Jefferson. The two-day festival will feature a pumpkin decorating contest, a cherry pie eating contest, a pumpkin harvest maze and patch (fee), a self-guided art walk, cornhole games, a scarecrow meet and greet, strolling musicians, a pirate scavenger hunt (fee), horse and wagon rides (fee), ten-foot Tall Walkers, a scarecrow walk, a harvest photo op and much more.
Barbara Ransome, Director of Operations at the Port Jefferson Chamber, is looking forward to seeing the fun unfold.
“There will be events throughout the whole village so its very walkable, very accessible and very family friendly. You can park your car and choose from a large selection of activities,” she said.
Highlights this year include the annual Halloween costumed dog parade sponsored by Fetch Doggy Boutique along East Main Street on Saturday at 12:30 p.m., and a village-wide Chowder Crawl on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. According to Ransome, in the case of torrential rain, the parade and Chowder Crawl will be pushed to Sunday.
This year many of the businesses in the village will host activities in front of or in their shops. Fall Fun kids crafts will be offered at Kilwins, a B&B Paranormal Investigations Tour sign up sheet will be at the Port Jeff Brewing Company (fee), and Oktober Fest Tastings will be offered at Port Jeff Liquor, Whiskey Barrel, Spycoast and Pindar for adults, just to name a few. For a full schedule of events, visit www.portjeffchamber.com.
Up next in the Village is the Santa Parade on Nov. 26, the Festival of Trees at the Port Jefferson Village Center from Dec. 1 to Jan. 2 and the 27th annual Charles Dickens Festival on Dec. 2 and 3. For more information, call 631-473-1414.
