Costumed characters abound at Grayslake Pumpkin Fest

On a beautiful autumn evening, Central Park Aquatic Fields in Grayslake was filled with superheroes, princesses, zoo animals and Disney characters during the 10th annual Grayslake Pumpkin Fest.

More than 500 children were expected to attend the Grayslake Park Community District-sponsored Halloween event.

"It's just a fall celebration for families to come out and have a nice evening to enjoy," said Kristin Splitt, executive director of the Grayslake Community Park District, who was wearing an Eeyore costume. "It's just a really great family event on a beautiful day.

The festival featured Halloween games, hay rides, moonwalks, a costume contest and a Halloween character path.

Erin Klein of Grayslake was dressed all in green and covered in leaves as she walked with her daughter Evelyn Halm, 4, who came as the Disney princess Moana.

"It's my favorite event every year. The kids have fun and we have fun," Klein said. "I am Te Fiti from the movie "Moana" kind of looking and feeling ridiculous but having fun."