Bring your littlest monsters to Carol Stream's Boo Fest
There will be something going on in the Mad Science Lab at Carol Stream's Simkus Recreation Center Friday night that every little Halloween reveler will want to see.
A pinch of this, a dab of that, and maybe a short chemical reaction later and - poof! - a new batch of sculpting, flour-based dough or slime will appear.
The lab is just one of the attractions planned for this year's Boo Fest, an annual seasonal celebration for kids ages 1 through 12 presented from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Oct. 25 by the park district at Simkus, 849 W. Lies Road.
The party takes over the entire center, says Sara Witteck, recreation supervisor, and all the rooms are themed.
Down the hall, in the "pumpkin patch," children will find plastic pumpkin baskets, candy, novelty prizes and games, Witteck said.
Another room will host a show with Dave DiNaso's Traveling World of Reptiles.
"They always have huge lizards and a snake or two," Witteck said. "It's always a really big hit."
In the craft room, Witteck said there will be a project involving faux spider webs and a chance to make and decorate paper masks.
Representatives of the Carol Stream Library will be on hand, too, telling ghost stories and giving away books and prizes.
New this year is something called the Glow Room Monster Mash that's a glow-in-the-dark dancing area.
Boo Fest also will feature an inflatable ride, balloon artists, snacks and green monster punch, Witteck said, while vendors from area businesses will offer games and treats.
"Costumes are recommended. Kids will be able to trick-or-treat throughout the entire thing," she said.
Witteck said Boo Fest has been a fall tradition since 2010. There is no extra cost for the attractions in addition to the price of admission.
"We usually have about 200 kids," she said. "You can pay at the door or register in advance."
Adults are admitted free and must stay with their children.
• • •
Boo Fest
Who: Carol Stream Park District
When: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25
Where: Simkus Recreation Center, 849 W. Lies Road, Carol Stream
Admission: $12 for residents 12 and younger, $18 for nonresidents; free for adults
Info: csparks.org or (630) 784-6100