October 11, 2005 > Trick-or-Scream

by Vidya Pradhan

For 37 years, the Candle Lighters, a nonprofit organization of 130 volunteers who raise funds for community-based projects, have organized a two-week Halloween extravaganza at the Fremont Hub. The event features the ever-popular Ghost House and a mini-carnival with games and treats for the whole family. This year's theme is "Scream Park" where goblins and witches will pop out of dark alleys to scare visitors. For the faint of heart and the young ones, there are "Good Fairies" to take you safely through the haunted paths and keep the ghouls at bay.

On Saturday, Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. the annual Kiddie Parade will start in the carnival area. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes and treats will be handed out to all. The parade will end with a walk through the Ghost House.

Older kids (12 and over or in junior high school) can participate inside the Ghost House. Check www.candlelighters.com for more information.

Funds generated from this project are the Candle Lighters' only source of donatable dollars, all of which are invested back into the community, enriching local schools, libraries, hospitals and other public and children's services. A significant part of this year's collections will go to the city of Fremont for their proposed water park. Other beneficiaries include the Family Services of the Tri-City area, the Ohlone Wildlife Rehabilitation Project, Fremont Parent's Nursery School, Kennedy High School and Kidango. This is a great opportunity for participants to give back to their own community while enjoying the activities.

The Ghost House is located at the Chadbourne Carriage House, between Chili's and the Elephant Bar on Fremont Boulevard at the Fremont Hub. It will open Saturday, October 15 and run through October 30. Preview the Ghost House on the 14th, when it will be open from 6:30 to 7:30 to the general public.

For general information call (510) 796-0595 or visit www.candlelighters.com.

Ghost House
Mon-Thurs 6 - 9 p.m.
Friday 6 - 10 p.m.
Saturday 1 - 10 p.m.
Sunday 1 - 9 p.m.
Chadbourne Carriage House
39169 Fremont Blvd., Fremont
(510) 796-0595