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Who ever said there was an age limit for dressing up for Halloween? Well, come to Durango and there isn’t one! Halloween is one of the most celebrated holidays in Durango for many reasons. First, it’s the one day a year where you can wear whatever you want and still fit right in. Fort Lewis students and the Durango community know how to truly celebrate when October 31^st rolls around.

The day often starts off with some early snowfall or cold temps, so naturally, most of us wake up excited and rejoicing about the beginning of winter.  This feeling of joy will continue throughout the day as we all know in the back of our mind that tonight is going to be filled with adventure.  The day usually moves quite quickly for me and soon enough it’s 4 p.m, and the town of Durango comes to life with all different types of people. All of the store owners on Main Avenue come out to hand out candy to the children and their families. This is a great time to sit downtown and people-watch as the small creatures, princesses, and witches wander the street collecting candy from all the local businesses. After this, everyone heads to 3^rd Avenue to receive even more candy and show off costumes while it is still light out.

After the trick or treating is finished, it is time to start pumpkin activities, baking Halloween treats, and drinking apple cider. Because of the known thrill of Halloween in Durango, you are likely to know more than one person who will be hosting a Halloween party at their house. This is where pumpkin carving contests will take place, along with pumpkin bread or pie eating competitions. Once everyone has enough of pumpkin flavored treats, it’s time to light the pumpkin candles and watch them glow in the dark while sipping on some apple cider.  

Now just because the pie has been eaten, the pumpkins have been lit, and the cider is almost all gone, don’t think the night is coming to an end! Around midnight on All Hallows Eve is when the real event takes place. Just before the clock strikes midnight, all of the monsters, animals, and scary beasts head back down town to reunite with everyone in Durango who is participating in the exciting flurry of the night. Right at midnight is when the classic Zombie March begins. Durangoans and Fort Lewis students can gather and march along in unison down the street and into the dark night.  The feeling of being surrounded by good friends and community members all in costumes is reviving and fascinating all at once. A good time is guaranteed to be had by all.

Let’s just say, Durango loves Halloween and we know how to do it right!