After a short-lived return to summer, autumn weather seems to have settled in, and we’ll all have to become accustomed to wearing or carrying a jacket or coat whenever we leave home. The cooler weather is supposed to harbor fewer germs, but I guess the fact that we are around others in a closer indoor environment leads to the increase in head colds and sniffles so many of us seem to be exhibiting.

The cool, crisp autumn weather does encourage plans and thoughts about Halloween: finding, or making, just the right costume; choosing and carving pumpkins; decorating the house and yard; and cooking and baking traditional or new-found treats. Apple cider is perhaps my favorite beverage this time of year. I feel especially blessed that we have several local orchards which produce wonderfully flavorful cider.

After some discussion by community members, there will be a Halloween Parade this year, on Thursday, October 30, thus avoiding the conflict with the Friday high school football game against arch-rival Muncy! The parade is being sponsored by the Hughesville Borough, in partnership with Freezer’s Auto Parts and Sullivan’s Service Station. Prizes have been donated by Haywood’s in Muncy, North Mountain Modular Homes, Sullivan’s, Freezer’s, the staff of Renn and Ferrell schools, and Ms. Denise Henneman. The parade is following a slightly different route this year, avoiding Main Street and the need to divert state highway traffic. It will begin at the HHS parking lot, proceed east on Cemetery Street, north on Railroad, west on Walnut, south on Broad, east on Academy, then again north on Railroad to the Hughesville Fire Hall.

I’m delighted to see that community members have come together to continue this long-standing tradition! I remember marching in the parade through town back in the 1960’s. We would end at the fire hall parking lot for costume judging and treats. I remember that all the children in costume would form up in a circle so the judges could walk around and choose the winners. I don’t recall that there were many floats at that time, although that could be because I was one who walked or, later, marched in the HHS band. We didn’t have to worry about Halloween falling on the same night as the high school football games. The season may not have included as many games at that time, but regardless, the games were played on Saturday afternoons until lights were installed in the late ’60’s.

Times do change, but children still get excited about Halloween and love the chance to be someone else for a short while. Mark your calendar and have a “spooktacular” time!

Hughesville events

Sat. Oct. 25, 1 to 3 p.m. Fiber Fillies needlecraft guild session, East Lycoming Historical Society museum, 66 South Main Street.

Sat. Oct. 25, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Hughesville Area Public Library will hold its first ever Halloween Party for kids ages 12 and under. Visit the library or call (570)584-3762 to sign up for this fun event! Costumes are optional. The party, held in the librarys Community Room, will include food and crafts.

Sun. Oct. 26, 4 to 6 p.m. 2nd Annual “Trick or Trunk” event hosted by the Hughesville Methodist Charge. Located in the parking lot behind Christ United Methodist Church, 146 So. Main St., Hughesville. Costumed members will offer treats from decorated cars. Public is welcome to come and share in the treats and fun.

Thurs. Oct. 30, 5:30 p.m. Hughesville Halloween Parade

Sat. Nov. 1 Craft show at Hughesville High School

Fri. Nov. 7, 7 p.m. The Celtic Martins return to the area with a performance at St. Basil’s Hall, Dushore. This family group presents Celtic and German music in an energetic, entertaining style. There is an admission fee.

Sat. Nov. 8 Charity event at Hughesville Fire Hall to benefit Clarkstown and St. James Lutheran Parish. Starts at 7 p.m. with a raffle.