Rockton IL
11-03-2022 10:37pm

Halloween celebrated in “spooktacular” fun in Rockton community

The Arellanos had fun together at Rockton's Main Street Trick or Treat event.

Rockton celebrated Halloween in spooky fun for several days this season.

Imaginations soared with a pumpkin carving/sculpting contest, now in its second year. Children's ages ranged from 12-18. It was sponsored by the Village of Rockton and the Walter Graham American Legion Post #332.

Twelve judges inspected entries in several categories: kids, happy and ugly and scary, carved jack-o'-lanterns, painted, and military. Business-carved or sculpted pumpkins were also in the running. With a total of 32 entries, the pumpkins displayed an array of artistic talents. Judges were teachers, business representatives, and members of the American Legion Post Auxiliary.

Three pumpkins were chosen as top picks by local dignitaries. Village President John Peterson, American Legion Auxiliary President Vicki Lynn, and a representative of the 2nd Division Legionaries each gave an award to their favorite piece.

First, second, and third place winners were chosen in each category. In the business category, Balsley Printing took first place honors, Ray's Family Restaurant got second place, and After the Vine had a third place win.

Pumpkin contest organizer Sue Johnson said, “Next year we are planning to have more entries, and to be better and bigger than ever. We have new ideas we are hoping to implement.”

On Sunday, Oct. 30, over 1,500 people of all ages participated in a day of fun at the Village of Rockton Main Street Trick or Treat event. Businesses and organizations handed out candy and other novelty items, creating tons of smiles. The event was organized by Village Planning and Development Administrator Tricia Diduch and sponsored by MembersAlliance Credit Union,

In conjunction with the Village, the Rockton American Legion Ladies Auxiliary offered hot dogs lunches for purchase. Dancin' Outlaws DJ Dave Johnson spun freaky tunes appropriate to the day's activities.  A trunk or treat event, complete with a life size pirate ship, added more options. Another eye-catching display revolved around a Classic Model car surrounded by decorations and animatronics.

As always, Rockton Inn Pub & Grub welcomed everyone in for a family Halloween event full of karaoke, crafts and treats as part of Sunday afternoon action at the annual party.

On the Rock River, The Witches Paddle returned. Overcast skies failed to stop three daring souls from taking on hours of kayaking. “I played the Wicked Witch of the West music during our trip,” event organizer Rachel Lynch said, “and we all cackled under the bridge and yelled out, 'Happy Halloween' to the kids who were watching.” Lynch credits Michael Marti of Sugar River Adventures, who comes every year, donates the use of the kayaks, and helps participants get into the river.

Miss Andrea's Dance Factory had a trick or treat event along with a Thriller party. All had a chance to learn Michael Jackson's Thriller dance, or to play games, or have photos taken in a booth.

Talcott Free Library hosted a special event on Wednesday, Oct. 12 where local author Kathi Kresol shared her favorite stories of lost loves, spine-tingling encounters with ghostly apparitions, and unexplained bumps in the night. Ages 10 and up heard of these "ghostly encounters," setting the scene before Halloween day was here.

Keeping with tradition, little ones walked down a parade route on Rockton's Main Street where they could show off their costumes while trick or treating.

Young ones at Old Stone Preschool participated in a pre-K Halloween party and a goblin parade. Giggles and ghoulish fun filled the walls of the school and beyond.

Various trunk or treats and trick or treating opportunities welcomed candy collectors, who had loads of fun. Lot of smiles and great creativity provided hours of options for a spooky good time in Rockton.

Click, tap, or swipe on the photo below (or use the left/right arrows) to view an image gallery of Rockton Halloween fun.

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The Bestul family spent quality time together while collecting candy on the Main Street Trick or Treat route.
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The Arellano family had fun together at Rockton's Main Street Trick or Treat event.
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