FORT RUCKER, Ala. (October 17, 2013) -- A host of Halloween activities are scheduled for this chilling, yet lively, season around post.
Fort Rucker has a diverse community, and event organizers always want to offer something everyone can enjoy. Whether patrons are civilians or military, everyone will be able to find something to do with the many activities planned for this holiday season, according to Janice Erdlitz, Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation marketing director.
"We are very proud to be able to share with the entire Wiregrass community the experiences of what all (DFMWR) has to offer with the many programs planned," she said. "From spooky fun at the Monster Bowl, to a more frightening experience with Frite Nite at the riding stables, to the more Family-fun Children's Fall Festival, I think we have something everyone can enjoy."
The Fort Rucker Riding Stables will offer up thrills with Frite Nite Oct. 18-19 from 7-11 p.m. Admission is $12 a person, cash only.
The trail is geared towards ages 12 and older. This year's designs are the Trail of Horror, Crazy Clown Shack and the Barn of Screams, which organizers promise is not like any other.
"Those who love to be scared will receive the adrenaline that they are looking for at this event," said Aida L. Diaz-Carter, riding stables business manager.
The "victims" will start with a short trailer ride to the entrance of the Trail of Horror, which will lead them into the Cemetery of the Dead, then into the Crazy Clown Shack and finally making their way into the Barn of Screams, said Diaz-Carter, adding that her favorite part is watching people run frantically screaming out of the Barn of Screams.
This year, drinks, chips and barbeque sandwiches will be on sale for an additional cost. Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers will be collecting canned goods both nights. Everyone is encouraged to bring a canned good with them.
"We will have a palm reader in a special tent for anyone that is curious about the past, present or future. People need to come prepared for the fright of their lives," said Diaz-Carter. "With that said, if they cannot continue to the end, there are no refunds."
The trail is a walking event and people are encouraged to wear closed-toed, comfortable shoes.
"Although running is not recommended, there may be an area or two that they won't be able to help themselves. We also encourage everyone to dress for the weather, because they will be walking through haunted trails with dust, dirt and debris."
The stables also offer up Family fun with the Children's Fall Festival Oct. 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
"Since we put on Frite Nite, we want to also provide entertainment and activities for the under 12 age group," said Diaz-Carter. "This is a great time for the younger children to come out and ride the pony or horses; play carnival-type games, where of course everyone is a winner; eat cotton candy; jump in the bouncy houses; ride a train and wear their costume."
The Landing will have hotdogs, chips and cold drinks on-site for an additional cost.
Only cash will be accepted at the event, where children can participate in the activities for tickets -- each ticket costs $1.
"Last year we had Families come out dressed in theme. That was so great to see. So this year we will continue and have a costume contest for children," added Diaz-Carter. "There will be a special performance by members of the Enterprise State Community College Entertainers, too."
Also Family oriented, Rucker Lanes will host a Monster Bowl Oct. 26 from 8 p.m. to midnight. Adults and children are encouraged to come in costume for an unlimited night of bowling.
Each lane costs $50 and includes up to six people. Lanes include shoes, a 16-inch one-topping pizza, a pitcher of soda or tea, and a bowl of chips and salsa.
"We have new lanes and new lighting," said Melissa Prichard, assistant manager. "It's a great time for a Family night out, because it promotes Family time and it is something different for everyone to do besides just trick-or-treating."
The scariest run of the year, the Spooky 5k, will take place on post Oct. 26 at the Fortenberry-Colton Physical Fitness Center at 8 a.m.
There will be a fun run, costume contests and a gift card giveaway this year along with new running categories and awards. For more information on the run, call 255-2296.
"This is the kickoff for the fall events that can easily let weight gain creep up on a person," said Lynn Avila, fitness programs coordinator. "Staying active like training for a run or just participating for fun will help in the battle of weight gain associated with the holiday season.
"This time of year depression rates rise, and any activity is counter active to this, but joining the run events, competitive or not, is a great way to stay active and meet new friends," she added.
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