HALLOWEEN crafts, creepy characters and family theatre are among the activities on offer across Tameside this month.
Families can get into the Halloween spirit with a packed programme of events in the borough, including spooky storytelling, pumpkin decorating, craft workshops and film screenings.
With activities ranging from free nature-inspired workshops to live entertainment in Ashton town centre, there are plenty of ways to keep children entertained over the October half-term without breaking the bank.
Fletcher Square will kick off the spooky season with Super Spooky Saturday this weekend (October 17) from 11am to 3pm.
The event will feature live shows, ghost and fairy tales, walkabout characters and Halloween-themed craft activities. Visitors are also encouraged to dress up in their favourite Halloween costumes.
Ashton town centre will get another dose of Halloween fun on Friday, October 30, when the Ashton Artisan Market returns with a spooky twist.
Running from midday to 6pm, the special market will feature a Halloween DJ, walkabout characters and pumpkin decorating, alongside the usual selection of independent traders.
There will also be plenty to keep families busy during the school holidays, with Tameside libraries hosting a programme of activities, including four days of Haunted House Crafts and a screening of the 2015 film Goosebumps.
At Portland Basin Museum, the popular Make, Do, Play sessions will take on a Halloween theme, with children able to create ghost puppet decorations and learn to draw ghouls and monsters.
Younger visitors can also enjoy a Quack Quack: Two Steps Back story time, combining a fun story with creative activities to teach children about water safety around canals.
For those looking to get outdoors, Werneth Low Country Park in Hyde will host a free afternoon of spooky-but-not-scary family fun on Friday, October 30, from 1pm to 4.30pm.
The event will include creative and nature-inspired workshops for all ages before finishing with a small parade featuring lights, lanterns and playful characters at the top of Werneth Low in Gee Cross.
Councillor Leanne Feeley, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, said: “We have a jam-packed programme of events and activities this October, and we want as many residents and visitors as possible to get involved.
“From family-friendly Halloween fun to markets, dress up characters and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s set to be a fantastic month, and we can’t wait to welcome residents to come along and make the most of everything on offer.”
Full details of dates, times and activities are available in the council’s October What’s On guide.