St. Petersburg Offers Safe Halloween Fest Amid Hurricane Recovery
St. Petersburg, FL – In the aftermath of recent hurricanes that impacted the local community, the University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USFSP) is stepping in to provide a safe and enjoyable alternative for trick-or-treating this Halloween season. The annual Halloween Fest, organized in collaboration with the City of St. Petersburg and Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital, is set to take place on Wednesday, October 30, from 5 to 8 p.m. at 140 7th Ave S., along the HarborWalk.
A Growing Community Event
Over the past three years, Halloween Fest has transformed from a small student initiative into a beloved community event. According to Caryn Nesmith, Director of Community Relations at USFSP and the event organizer, the festival originally started with just a haunted house created by the Judy Genshaft Honors College Student Council which attracted around 250 youth its first year. In the following year, participation surged to approximately 750, and this year, over 900 attendees are anticipated.
Activities and Fun for All Ages
This year’s Halloween Fest promises an exciting array of activities for families and children of all ages. Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating, games, a DJ playing lively music, and a costume parade. Additionally, attendees can meet friendly therapy dogs and experience a “not-so-scary” haunted house. Around three dozen community organizations are expected to be present, offering fun activities and distributing candy.
Local authorities are also contributing to the event. The St. Petersburg Police Department will showcase SWAT vehicles, including its Hellcat, while the St. Petersburg Fire Department will have a fire truck on-site for families to explore. “As people started to hear about this event, they wanted to join in,” explained Nesmith. Notable collaborations include a small plane from Albert Whitted Airport and engaging activities hosted by the Junior League, which includes crafts and a book giveaway.
Support for Communities Affected by Hurricanes
With many neighborhoods still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Nesmith expressed hope that Halloween Fest will act as a safe haven for families during this challenging time. “Our campus took a hit, and we’re still recovering, just like many others,” she noted. “We canceled or postponed several October events because of the hurricane damage, but we really wanted to proceed with Halloween Fest as it brings our USF community and the larger community together.”
Event Details and Registration
The event is free and open to everyone in the community, but advance registration is encouraged. Families are invited to dress up in costumes and join in the festivities. Over 100 volunteers will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.
As families search for safe options to participate in Halloween celebrations amid post-hurricane recovery efforts, USFSP’s Halloween Fest is set to provide an enjoyable, family-friendly experience and help restore the Halloween spirit in St. Petersburg.
For those interested in attending, please register online to secure your spot.
