JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Halloween comes only once a year, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson offers those keen on dressing up plenty of activities to get out during the month of October.
This year community members can look forward to several annual events as well as a few new happenings.
“The Arctic Oasis Community Center is hosting our annual Trunk-or-Treat event,” said Seante Banks, a 673d Force Support Squadron programs coordinator. “Usually it’s cold and snowy this time of year, and some people don’t want to walk around in weather like that. Our hope for this event is that service members and their families will come out and enjoy some fun and games together in a safe and warm environment.”
This event is scheduled to take place Oct. 26 from 4 to 7 p.m. There will be decorated trunks for children to trick-or-treat from as well as participate in games and various indoor activities.
On the same day, there are two free events open to all ages. The Costume Fun Run is scheduled to begin at the Elmendorf Fitness Center at 5:30 p.m. and the 673d Medical Group will be hosting its annual Trick-or-Treat at the JBER Hospital Bear entrance. Special-needs admission begins at 1 p.m. with general admission from 2 to 4 p.m.
“This event is something we look forward to each year,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Natalisa Smith, the 673d Orthopedic Clinic section chief. “It is a way for us to give back to our military community by providing a fun reason to come to the hospital. Each department will have their own family-friendly theme and children will have the opportunity to walk through the hospital collecting candy from each department.”
For those who might be looking for opportunities to have some fun bowling with friends or family, the Polar Bowl hosts ‘Kids Spooktacular Bowling Bash’ from 1 to 3 p.m. and ‘Bowl-A-Ween’ for single service members from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Oct. 20.
During this season of ghouls and goblins, the JBER Safety Office recommends using a battle buddy or wingman when partaking in festivities.
Another thing for adults and children to consider is the need to be seen on Halloween; this can be accomplished by choosing brightly colored costumes, reflective material or adding reflective tape. According to Safe Kids World Wide, twice as many child pedestrians are killed on Halloween than any other days of the year.
JBER’s designated trick-or-treat hours are scheduled for Oct. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. During this time, Security Forces will operate their pumpkin patrol to help ensure a safe Halloween for all residents.
“Parents should always accompany children under the age of 10, and for those over the age of 10 going in groups is recommended,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jon Reed, a 673d Air Base Wing occupational safety technician. “If there was any time not to be distracted, it’s Halloween! Put down your phone and watch out for the mini Avengers and Moanas.”
For members of the 2Rivers and Kennecott youth centers, themed events and activities will include:
- Halloween scavenger hunt for all ages, Oct. 24 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the 2RYC.
- Family fun night for ages 9 to 18, Oct. 25 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the KYC.
- Halloween Gathering by Teens Own Fridays for ages 13 to18, Oct. 26 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the 2RYC.
- Pumpkin carving for all ages, Oct. 29 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the 2RYC.
- Costume contest for ages nine to 18, Oct. 31 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the KYC.
- Spooky slime making for all ages, Oct. 31 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the 2RYC.
If there is an emergency or you see suspicious activities during Halloween, contact the Base Defense Operations Center at 552-3421.
For more information or a complete listing of these events, visit www.jberlife.com.