72 HOURS October 23, 2025

OCTOBER

23

FRIGHTS of FANCY

Strathmore’s ‘Hauntings’ explores the beauty in the paranormal and macabre

R.L. STINE CONJURES HALLOWEEN MAGIC

The author who taught millennials that fear could be fun returns to haunt Frederick on Oct. 28. R.L. Stine will take the Weinberg Center stage for this year’s Frederick Reads. Stine, whose 350-plus books have made him synonymous with suburban childhood terror, arrives just as his new graphic novel, “The Graveyard Club,” hits shelves. Throughout his Goosebumps series, Stine deliberately plants something funny whenever scenes grow too intense, ensuring each chapter ends with a punchline rather than a panic attack. Curious Iguana will sell books in the lobby before the 7 p.m. event, and while admission is free, tickets are required. Meanwhile, for those seeking an irreverent warm-up, Maryland Ensemble Theatre offers “Whosebumps!” — a live improvised comedy riff on the Goosebumps series — at 8:30 p.m. Oct. 25.

WHEN DICTIONARIES BECOME ART

Noah Webster rode into Frederick on horseback in 1786 to lecture about American language and national unity. On Oct. 25, nine days past what would be Webster’s 282nd birthday, two contemporary artists channeling his lexicographic legacy will gather in downtown Frederick for “Re-Defining Narrative and Illustration.”

Johnny Carrera and Brook McClurg both built books around Webster’s dictionary engravings, their creative paths intersecting through a serendipitous academic connection when McClurg discovered at Yale that images he wanted to use had appeared in Carrera’s book “Pictorial Webster’s.” What emerged was Carrera’s debut novel, “Adam’s Adventures in the Army,” and McClurg’s “A Dictionary of Modern Consternation,” a curated dictionary narrative. The free event at 20 W. Second St. begins with a 1 p.m. exhibition, followed by a 2:50 p.m. reception and then readings and conversation beginning at 5:25 p.m.

GEORGIA RAE BRAUN STEPS INTO THE SPOTLIGHT

After adding smoky-warm blues textures to Sunniva’s sunnier disposition, guitarist Georgia Rae Braun puts focus on her solo work with an Oct. 24 show at Cafe Nola, riding momentum from her haunting single “Ohio.” That track, with its bourbontinged vocals layered over slide and acoustic guitars, channels influences of Tom Waits and Lana Del Rey into something that lingers long past a first listen. What’s interesting is Braun’s admission that confidence arrived late: She never imagined herself a lead vocalist until collaborator Tony Wilkins pushed her to share “Cocaine and Milk” in 2022. Joining Sunniva accelerated her evolution; surrounded by music school graduates, she absorbed theory, dynamics, tone and gear knowledge, and while the band was on hiatus, she began working on her own material. The 9 p.m. show in Frederick features Connor Sheedy on drums and Owen Fuste on bass, with Philadelphia’s Ryan Yingst and Frederick’s Portside Chapel also on the bill.

CALL FOR ART — AND SCIENCE

The Frederick Arts Council wants artists to visualize what happens when energy meets matter — literally. Their upcoming exhibition, in partnership with Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, invites work exploring the intersection of art and science. It will run from Nov. 20 through Jan. 20 at Gallery 115 inside the Y Arts Center in Frederick. Scientists at the lab use world-class technology to image biological structures at atomic levels, improve genome editing, create cancer diagnostics from liquid biopsies and more. This call asks artists to engage with physics, biology or unseen forces shaping our universe. Artists can submit up to two pieces, along with a 250-word statement connecting their work to the theme. Applications close Nov. 5 at 11:59 p.m. via SlideRoom, and FAC has posted inspirational case studies at frederickartscouncil.org to help artists understand the laboratory’s scope. Here is a unique opportunity to translate scientific innovation into visual language.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Share your community stories and events with us! Email llarocca@newspost.com.

FCPL breaks records while adapting to community needs

BY JENNIFER LEE Special to The News-Post

This year has been a record breaking year for Frederick County Public Libraries’ nine branch locations, including the Community and Early Start Bookmobiles.

With library customers borrowing more than 5 million materials and visiting more than 3 million times this year over last year, FCPL has hit new milestones.

For the past five years, FCPL has seen a significant growth in library use trends. FCPL keeps track of these trends to ensure the best possible collection of books and materials are available for customer needs.

As of June, with nearly 1 million more checkouts this year than in 2024, circulation reached 5,168,926. Both branch and online visits soared, as well, totaling 3,020,405 — a 12.9% increase over 2024.

“Each of those 3 million touchpoints represents an individual with a unique need or interest who trusted their public library to help,” FCPL director James Kelly said. “Opportunities to make a real connection and build bridges in our community is the reason we are here.”

Nearly 25,000 new library cards were issued in 2025, bringing FCPL’s active cardholder total up to 165,376 and more than seven thousand new digital cards were issued throughout the FCPL system this year alone, a 10% increase from 2024.

Free Wi-Fi use also increased by 3.6%, totaling 436,682 users, which is more than half of Frederick County’s total population.

The library system circulates a variety of materials including physical books checked out in-branch or from outreach vehicles, digital content like eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, and movies and music that can be downloaded or streamed using digital resources like Libby and Hoopla.

FCPL anticipates customers continuing to borrow materials in multiple formats, because as life situations change, so do library customer habits — and libraries will continue to adapt to the needs of their communities.

“FCPL remains committed to building collections in which every person can see themselves reflected and to creating spaces where every person feels welcome,” Kelly said. “Libraries are important because everyone belongs here.

We are transformative places for the communities that we serve. In addition to providing access to thousands of resources, libraries offer space for exploration, reflection, and connection. This is critically important in a time of such division.”

Libraries often see a spike in usage during economic downturns for many reasons, and how the library is used changes over time.

Some customers are using the library computers or print resources to work on resumes or to apply for jobs online, while others are using FCPL’s online resources for skill building or for attending a program or workshop. Others are exploring FCPL’s book collection for tips on budgeting or cookbooks to stretch their grocery dollar.

A greater number of library customers are using FCPL’s digital resources, streaming music, movies, eBooks and audiobooks, all of which are free with a library card. Although the use of electronic materials like eBooks and eAudio had been steadily

increasing for a number of years, the numbers continued to fall well below the use of physical materials.

“When the pandemic hit, FCPL had to shut its doors and limit the circulation of physical materials during a time when our community needed access to information, entertainment and enrichment the most,” FCPL collections manager Marian Currens said.

FCPL promoted electronic offerings during the pandemic as an alternative to physical items, and the popularity of these platforms surged ahead of the physical resource borrowing.

While many library users returned to physical materials, such as books, books on CD, DVDs and more, a large number of FCPL’s customers continued to opt for the convenience of electronic materials.

“Our digital platforms have definitely contributed to the overall increase in library use,” Currens said. “We’ve seen an increase in circulation across digital and physical materials, but digital circulation has grown

exponentially over the last few years.”

Keeping up with the electronic demand is an ongoing challenge for all libraries because electronic materials can pose unique funding challenges and often cost significantly more than their physical counterparts, Currens said.

FCPL was awarded a budget appeal by the County Executive, which has helped better meet the demand for electronic materials. This increase in funding meant FCPL could purchase more materials to broaden the offerings and reduce wait times for electronic materials.

In addition to materials, FCPL offers programming to bring visitors into the branches.

“FCPL programs address the needs and interests of Frederick County communities, are innovative, and provide a welcoming space for all,” FCPL community engagement manager Bryan Hissong said. “We have story times for young children,

Il Divo brings their world tour to the Weinberg Center

Experience an evening of breathtaking vocals and musical triumphs as Il Divo lights up the stage at the Weinberg Center for the Arts at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29 with their celebrated Il Divo by Candlelight world tour.

For over 20 years, Il Divo has embodied the power of music, brotherhood and artistic evolution. Since their debut in 2004, the iconic quartet has redefined classical crossover, captivating audiences worldwide with their breathtaking vocals and electrifying performances. Il Divo by Candlelight will take audiences on a journey through two decades of romance, heartache, and joy, weaving their greatest musical triumphs into an unforgettable evening.

They will be joined by Phoenixbased string trio Simply Three, who will act as a backing band.

Tickets start at $82.50 and are available at weinbergcenter.org, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828, or in person at the Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

FCC alum, New York-based guitarist presents a concert of jazz fusion and Irish music

Frederick Community College is proud to welcome back alumnus and New York-based guitarist Diego Retana (AA Music, 2013) for a special concert at the Jack B. Kussmaul Theater at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24.

Retana will be joined onstage by his original jazz-fusion band Mixed State and Baltimore-based Celtic folk band The Pilgrims of Deep Run.

The event is free to attend, with a suggested $15 donation to the FCC Music Program. Tickets can be reserved at https://2025DiegoRetana.eventbrite.com.

Retana is a freelance guitarist and music educator based in New York City. With more than 23 years of performance experience and 15 years of teaching, he has built a career defined by versatility and curiosity across musical genres. He has recorded and performed with singer-

songwriters and groups spanning pop, rock, funk, soul, R&B, jazz, fusion and Celtic traditional styles. His teaching work includes private lessons and ensemble coaching at The Dwight School, where he directs a middle school rock band and a high school jazz/funk fusion group.

“We feel passionately about giving our community access to high quality performances, but it’s extra special to host an alumnus like Diego,” said Mike Gersten, associate professor of music at FCC. “He’s a shining example for our students. To see how comfortable he is playing in such different styles is a testament to his hard work and dedication. We’re thrilled to welcome him back to FCC along with these exciting bands.”

Alongside his professional work in New York, Retana remains active in the

DMV area, continuing to perform with The Pilgrims of Deep Run while also bringing his original projects to audiences nationwide.

Jack B. Kussmaul Theater is at Frederick Community College. Admission is free, with a suggested $15 donation

to the FCC Music Program Get tickets at https://2025DiegoRetana.eventbrite. com

For more information, email mgersten@frederick.edu, or call 301846-2566.

In conversation with Georgia Rae Braun

BY ROY GHIM Special to The News-Post

Georgia Rae Braun is gearing up for a solo show at Cafe Nola on Oct. 24 not long after releasing her single “Ohio.” Anyone who listened to that on major streaming platforms will have been instantly transported to the Midwest by way her bourbon-tinged voice and gorgeous layers of slide and acoustic guitars.

With traces of Tom Waits, Bob Dylan and more contemporaneously Lana Del Rey in her musical DNA, Braun crafted something that lingers and haunts well past an initial listen.

Braun blazed onto the local scene as lead guitarist for Sunniva, adding a different element to the band’s sunnier vibes.

“She’s a great guitar player,” said Sunniva frontman Danniel Knight II. “She has the coolest, smoky-warm, blues type of vibe, so she added a cool twang to our sound that fit the songs we were writing.”

Braun now returns to her own material she had been gradually amassing. A glimpse of that two years ago: Braun performed one of her first songs, “Cocaine and Milk,” with local songwriter Tony Wilkins, available to watch on social media. Tad Achey of Zootu was on hand, recording a live video in which they “just nailed the song with so much inner passion in one take,” he recalled, “Seriously impressive.”

Achey wound up producing Braun’s single, which he observed,

“She has such good vision,” Achey said. “Each session, [she’s] ready to let it all out.”

She’s assembled a trio of musicians who worked with Adrienne Smith and Natalie Brooke to flesh out her songs plus a few interesting covers for the show. She’s excited about playing with all the other musicians on the bill at Cafe Nola, including Philadelphia-based Ryan Yingst and Frederick’s Portside Chapel, who will close out the evening.

What surprised me when talking to her was that she hasn’t always been confident about sharing her music. I spoke with Braun about the nucleus of her songwriting; in turn, she explained her rapid evolution of finding her voice and her way around the guitar, and how Sunniva gave her a leveling up in that department. We also talked about juggling different elements of being both in and conversing about the Frederick music scene from her vantage point of having studied journalism in college.

Before joining Sunniva, you were living outside of Frederick. How did you spot the music scene here?

I came to sort of discover the

faked my way through jamming, enough to be in Sunniva.

In 2024, I first saw you playing with Sunniva onstage at the Frederick Arts Center (now the Frederick Center). Everyone asked, who was this new guitarist that was totally shredding?

Yeah, part of it was timing. I’ve always been kind of a lazy musician. I never really learned much theory or certain techniques. But I think with Sunniva, it was really good. All those guys went to music school, so they just kind of pushed me to be better. It was good timing. I was just wrapping up college and couldn’t find a job, and so I just kind of threw myself into playing guitar, and I learned so much. I learned about dynamics, I learned about tone, I learned about gear, got my pedal board set up. I think it really accelerated my growth as a guitar player, for sure.

You were on Sunniva’s “Moving Light” EP, just released last summer, correct?

Yeah, I played on their latest EP. That’s me on lead and lap steel and some backing vocals. Once I got into Sunniva is really when I cemented myself in the Frederick scene. I moved here a little over a year ago, so now I just feel like part of the community officially.

You’re heading into a solo situation. What precipitated that, or was that the plan all along?

Frederick music scene through open mics. I was living in Purcellville, Virginia, at the time. I just started playing my own stuff as a solo artist, and from there I met Tony Wilkins. He really pushed me to come out and play music. This was around 2022.

And you collaborated on a song together?

Yeah. He’s a great songwriter, collaborator and one of my best friends now. I wrote “Cocaine and Milk” one day and I asked him, “What do you think?” And he was like, “Oh, I love it!”

I never really thought of myself as a lead vocalist. I always felt like I heard him singing that song, not me. So, we split the difference and decided to do it as a duo. Then Tad Achey worked on getting a video for the song. That was really the first time I’ve ever been like, “Hey, here’s my music,” because I’ve been real shy

IF YOU GO

Georgia Rae Braun & Co., Ryan Yingst and Portside Chapel live at 9 p.m. Oct. 24 at Cafe Nola, 4 E. Patrick St., Frederick. $5 cover, 21 and older. 301-694-6652 for more info.

about it my whole life.

So you came onto the radar of the Frederick music scene when you joined Sunniva?

Once I released that song, that was really kind of the catalyst. Danniel from Sunniva was looking for a new guitar player, and I had just posted that video with Tony online. Danniel said, “Do you want to try playing lead for us?” And honestly … I so did not think I was going to be able to play lead. But I was like, “Yeah, sure, totally,” and I guess I just

Sunniva was on a hiatus, and I just sort of drifted around aimlessly and felt like I needed to do something. I had had this song “Ohio” that I recorded. It was really just a demo, but I was like, ah, f— it, I’m gonna just release it as a single. And the response was pretty good. I was pretty happy with how it turned out. I’ve always been doing these collaborative things, so it was cool to have total creative control, down to the aesthetic of the promotion and the creative direction of the cover and all that.

That song has a lot of sonic depth. It starts with a sparse atmosphere, then builds and creates this world that evokes a time and place. To me, I see a river and there are leaves that are turning. Maybe I’m off base there, but there’s definitely an emotional pull. Tell me about your approach to crafting this song.

I’m really happy to hear that it’s evocative. I feel like all my favorite artists are like that — the fact you see something, down to the season and the scenery. I love that. Like Tom Waits, it’s just evoking a vibe. I love Lana Del Rey; she’s also really good at that. I love the idea of world-making. I think that there’s a cinematic element to that.

I actually wrote that song right before I was going to Ohio. It was some school holiday we had off. I’d never been to

Canines on the Creek returns to Frederick

For the sixth consecutive year, the Francis Scott Key Lions Club will host Canines on the Creek, a celebration of Frederick’s dog-loving past and present.

The event features a dog parade and Halloween costume contest for dogs and owners, along with exhibits, prizes, giveaways and demonstrations. It will be held at the Carroll Creek Linear Park Amphitheater in downtown Frederick from noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 25, rain or shine. This event is held in conjunction with the Downtown Frederick Partnership, the City Recreation Department and the nonprofit organization Leader Dogs for the Blind.

Advance registration for the dog costume contest and parade is $25 per dog. Spectators are welcome to attend for free. Guests are encouraged to bring canned dog food items in support of the Humane Society of Frederick County. Participants can register at fsklions. org/canines. Monetary donations are welcome but not required.

Proceeds from the event benefit Leader Dogs for the Blind, an organization the Lions founded and are intimately involved with, as well as other Lions Club charities. Leader Dogs for the Blind provides guide dog training, matching services and client orientation and mobility training, leading to a life of independence and confidence for blind and low-sight individuals.

Judging categories for the costume contest are best owner-and-dogthemed costume, best small breed costume, best medium breed costume, and best large breed costume. First-, second-, and third-place prizes will be awarded in each category. Many door prizes will be awarded as well.

All dogs must be well-behaved, on a leash and up to date on vaccinations at the time of registration. Local celebrities, such as Frederick Mayor Michael O’Connor, will serve as judges. Many

Competitors in Canines on the Creek in downtown Frederick in 2024.

exhibitors will also provide costume contest prizes, door prizes and periodic giveaways to attendees.

“The parade and costume contest are a lot of fun,” says FSK Lions event chair Gary Bennett. “The first two years, the event featured St. Patrick’s Day and Fourth of July themes, respectively. We decided to move our event to Halloween a few years ago and keep it there because of the ease of coming up with a costume and to

take advantage of Frederick’s normally spectacular October weather. Now we get over 100 dogs and hundreds of spectators. We not only have the parade and costume contest but also demonstrations from dog trainers, which will be loads of fun.

“Training and providing leader dogs for blind individuals is very expensive but very much needed in the blind and low-sight community. Lions have always been especially supportive of

this group,” Bennett added. Visit fsklions.org/canines for more information or to register as a participant or exhibitor.

FSK Lions Club meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Elks Lodge on Willowdale Road in Frederick. For reservations, contact membership chair Nancy Foy at 225-229-6264 or membership@ fsklions.org. See fsklions.org for more information.

Master illusionist Vitaly brings show to Frederick

“Vitaly: An Evening of Wonders” will come to Frederick this week.

Jeremy Daniel

Blurring the line between the improbable and the impossible, world-renowned illusionist Vitaly brings An Evening of Wonders to the Weinberg Center for the Arts in Frederick at 8 p.m. Oct. 24.

With illusions that breathe life into paintings, make objects disappear, and challenge perception itself, Vitaly has astonished audiences from Broadway to international stages.

His performances blend storytelling, visual artistry and sleight of hand into a theatrical

experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

Praised by the Chicago Tribune as “one of the most captivating and enjoyable illusionists in the world today,” Vitaly invites audiences of all ages into a realm where dreams materialize and everyday logic dissolves.

Tickets start at $25 and are available at weinbergcenter.org, by calling the box office at 301-6002828, or in person at the Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

The Frederick Mom’s recommendations for the weekend of Oct. 24

Activities to do with the kids this weekend, courtesy of The Frederick Mom.

History Trick or Treat

6 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 and 3 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25

Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 N Market St., Frederick

$5/person

This weekend, you can walk through history with your family while trick or treating! At Rose Hill Manor Park, move throughout the property visiting costumed historical characters to learn more about our past and get candy at the same time! Fun for children and adults alike. All visitors 2 and older must register and are welcome to trick or treat. Sign up for a 90-minute time slot through recreater. com.

•••

Spooky Skate Night

8 to 10 p.m. Oct. 24

Skate Frederick, 1288 Riverbend Way, Frederick

$8/person + $4/skate rental

Does your family like ice skating? If so, attend Skate Frederick’s Spooky Skate Night event this Friday!Think costumes, hype music and ice skating — all in one night. Wear your best spooky or comical costume and make me memories on the rink, skating to Halloween jams all night long. Skate Frederick will be giving out prizes for “Most Creative,” “Scariest,” and “Funniest” costumes. There’s also a snack bar to grab late night treats. If you need to rent ice skates, the rental cost of $4 is separate than the admission cost. •••

Halloween in Downtown Frederick

9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Oct. 25

Throughout downtown Frederick Free

Events all day downtown! From 10 a.m. to noon, your favorite boutiques in downtown Frederick are hosting Trick or Treating for kids! Bring the entire family, including the pup, for Halloween in Downtown Frederick. A practice trick or treating hour for children with disabilities will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. You can then bring your pumpkin pale to trick or treat over in Everedy Square for its Trick or Treat Courtyard Bash from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Also, between noon and 5 p.m., Carroll Creek is the venue for Canines on the Creek, a hilarious and adorable dog costume contest and parade. To end the

With the leaves changing colors, this might be the best time to bring the family and your friends to enjoy the beauty of fall in the mountains at Cunningham Falls State Park. For a small donation, enjoy hayrides in the park and then gather around a campfire for s’mores and good company this Saturday and Sunday. You may even see Smokey Bear making an appearance!

Fall Fest

1 to 5 p.m. Oct. 25

Mt. Airy Carnival Grounds, 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy Free

‘Trunk or Treat’ event on the farm. Come dressed up and treat or treat by the cow pastures! Arrive early at 5 p.m. if your family is able to be a part of the Trunk or Treat and help pass out candy from your decorated trunk. There’s a playground on site, adorable farm animals, and Grand View Acres Farm is also where you will find homemade ice cream from its very own Happy Cow Creamery.

•••

Trunk or Treat at 4D

Noon to 4 p.m. Oct. 26

Fourth Dimension Fun Center, 4725 Arcadia Drive, Frederick Free

4D is hosting yet another awesome event — this time to get in the scary season! On Sunday, your kids can wear their costume and go “trunk or treating” in the parking lot between noon and 4 p.m. Enjoy the candy, fun giveaways, and a scavenger hunt! For $5, get artsy and paint a pumpkin. Or sign up for “Spooky Tag” which is laser tag with Halloween characters at $10 per player. There’s also arcade, bowling lanes and other games to try … plus a full menu and bar.

•••

Cow Fest

2 to 6 p.m. Oct. 26

Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick $5/person

evening, watch a free Halloween movie at Carroll Creek Amphitheater. The movie “The Addams Family 2” begins at sundown. •••

Hayrides in Cunningham State Park

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 25 and 26

Cunningham Falls State Park, 14274

William Houck Drive, Thurmont

$5/donation per person, children in car seats are free

Join Delta Home Group for a Saturday afternoon full of fun activities for all ages. DHG is partnering with local businesses to bring the community a great afternoon of free games, a bounce house, music, pumpkins, face painting, and more! Food will be available for purchase on site at the Mt. Airy Carnival Grounds. Register at dhgsells.com and be entered to win awesome prizes.

Trunk or Treat on the Farm

6 to 7 p.m. Oct. 25

Grand View Acres Farm, 8728 Dollyhyde Road, Union Bridge Free

If your family hasn’t visited Grand View Acres Farm yet, this may be your gentle nudge to visit this Saturday. From 6 to 7 p.m., they’re hosting a safe and fun

The Flying Cows is hoping to break the world record for most people collectively dressed as cows, and it’s happening this Sunday at the Frederick Fairgrounds! Come dressed as a cow (preferably in a Flying Cows onesie) for this awesome family- and pet-friendly festival appropriately called Cow Fest! There will be a Helicopter Candy Drop, Kid Zone, story time by Frederick County Public Libraries, a Fun Run by Charm City Runs, real Highland cows to meet and cuddle, food trucks, a beer garden, and live music by Milk Mountain and Let There Be Rock School Band. Get your Cow Fest tickets and your cow onesie at goflyingcows.com.

Tiffany Mahaney is at least a fifth-generation native to Frederick County, and she now proudly raises her own family here. To see more local family friendly things to do, follow her on Instagram @ thefrederickmom.

BY ROCCO GEPPI

Special to The News-Post

Giving voice to history, story and the human spirit

When Timothy Andrés Pabon received word that he had won the 2025 AudioFile Earphones Award for his narration of “The Last Great Dream: How Bohemians Became Hippies and Created the Sixties” by Dennis McNally, the longtime voice actor and performer was grateful, but his focus wasn’t on accolades.

“I’ve moved into a different part of my life where I’m not really thinking about the recognition so much,” Pabon said. “It’s just executing the project and having as much fun as possible while I’m doing it. I think I’m really lucky to have such a cool job.”

That “cool job” is one Pabon approaches with depth. For him, narration is not merely reading words into a microphone — it’s an act of empathy, of stepping into the canoe with every character, perspective and idea in a book.

“I think of every story I narrate as a love story,” Pabon explained. “And love, in this sense, isn’t just a feeling, it’s wanting what is best for the other person. Once you understand what a character, or even a nonfiction subject, believes is the ‘good life,’ then you can locate the conflict when they fall short of it. That’s where the story lives.”

FINDING THE VOICE OF THE ‘60S

Pabon’s award-winning performance brought McNally’s sweeping history of 1960s counterculture to life, a subject he already felt connected to.

“I’ve always been interested in the counterculture, and I love the Grateful Dead,” Pabon said. “That music and that experimentation always resonated with me.”

Capturing McNally’s voice, as both a historian and the Grateful Dead’s longtime publicist, required careful balance. Pabon described it as finding the rhythm and syntax embedded in the writing.

“He was so clear about his love for the Dead, it came across in the way he wrote. That made it that much easier to narrate.”

The book shifts between cultural observation and immersive, gonzo storytelling, which gave Pabon freedom to inhabit both roles.

“Sometimes I was the observer; sometimes I was right in the middle of

the scene,” he said. “Sliding between those perspectives was a lot of fun.”

Yet not every moment was easy. In narrating passages that described violence or chaotic scenes, Pabon found his personal reactions pulling him away from the text.

“You run into yourself,” he admitted. “I’d think, ‘What are you people doing?’ But then I had to check that voice and return to the book’s focus: the power of music, of the Dead, to bring people back to peace. That’s where the narrative wanted to go.”

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF STORYTELLING

Pabon’s approach is shaped by his background as an actor, director and songwriter. He’s less interested in “putting on silly voices” and more focused on the psychology of each character or figure.

“The placement of the voice comes from the psychology of the character,” Pabon said. “It’s about where they live

emotionally, what they love, what they’re striving for.”

That empathetic grounding is essential for keeping listeners engaged, especially during dense passages of history or fact. His trick? He imagines he’s speaking to his best friend.

“I can see her face, her reactions,” Pabon explained. “If she starts to roll her eyes, I know I need to adjust. That keeps it real, conversational and alive.”

Pabon also protects his concentration by shutting out distractions.

“I put tape over anything that shows the time. No microwave clock, no phone. There’s nothing but the character and the moment,” Pabon said. “If you drift, if you start thinking about your next break or the garage door, the book keeps going without you. Everything you need is in the text. You just have to stay with it.”

LESSONS FROM SUCCESSES AND FAILURES

Not every narration has landed the way Pabon hoped. He recalled narrating

a book on Francis Ford Coppola where his personal distaste for the director’s treatment of others bled into his performance.

“It came across like the narrator was just tired of him,” Pabon said. “But the book was supposed to be a thrill ride. That was a failure on my part. You learn from those moments as much as, or more than, from your successes.”

That humility and self-awareness, paired with his depth of craft, have made Pabon a standout voice in audiobook narration. Reviewers often cite the nuance he brings to his work, which he credits to empathy above all else.

“Empathy is the holy grail,” he said.

A LIFE IN STORYTELLING

Pabon’s path to narration grew out of his broader career in the arts. He has performed on stage and screen, directed theater and written music. Each discipline informs the others, he said.

“Theater gave me a sense of rhythm and live energy. Songwriting taught me to distill emotion. All of it feeds into audiobook work,” Pabon said.

At home in Frederick, where the mountains and skies shape his sense of place, Pabon balances artistry with family life. He shared how even a conversation with his wife years ago about whether to have a second child became, in hindsight, an exercise in embodying multiple voices and perspectives.

“One day I’d argue against it, the next she’d take that side. That’s what narration is: you embody opposites inside yourself, you wrestle with the conflict, and you express the turmoil,” Pabon said.

Looking ahead, Pabon continues to embrace the variety of projects that come his way. Whether fiction or nonfiction, history or contemporary storytelling, his process remains rooted in empathy and presence.

“At the end of the day, I’m not the guy you want behind an Excel spreadsheet,” he joked. “But if you put me in a booth with a story, that’s where I belong.”

And for listeners, that dedication ensures that the stories he voices, whether of bohemians, dreamers or everyday people, resonate with the listeners and their expectations.

Rocco Geppi is a freelance writer, having earned his professional journalist credentials in his late teens, and has made a career out of his passion.

”Experience the Creativity” — through Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Work in a variety of media from members of the Olney Art Association. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Contemporary Kumiko” — through Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. The work in this exhibition is inspired by Kumiko, a Japanese art form established in the Asuka era (600–700 AD). These intricate pieces made of wood, fabric, gold leaf, and paper are part of David Gootnick’s work which introduces Kumiko to the broader audience. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Contemporary Innovations: Erin Fostel — A Room of Her Own” — through Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Fostel’s charcoal and graphite drawings are focused on the bedroom as a unique place where a sole woman occupant can be free of the objectification and expectation imposed upon her most anywhere else. The work acknowledges each woman through representation of her space, rather than her body.

Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondaySaturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Seven Ideas About Paradise” — through Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This immersive experience in mixed media work by Julie Maynard takes inspiration from various mythological vantage points to explore the idea of paradise and humanity’s preoccupation with it.

Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondaySaturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

“Bio-Translations” — through Oct. 26 at Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. Work by Craig Cavin. Call 301-473-7680 for gallery hours or for an appointment to view the show.

”Five Chicks With Brushes” — through Oct. 26, Links Bridge Vineyards, Tasting Room, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. An exhibit of artwork by a group of local artists called the Hands of the Artists. The artists are Sandy Cook, Pam Herrick, Ann Lundahl, Robin Seidel and Stephanie Torres. The exhibit features a variety of still life

“Contemporary Innovations: Erin Fostel A Room of Her Own” runs through Oct. 26 at the Delaplaine Arts Center in Frederick. Shown here, “A decade of memories.”

and landscape paintings, many of which celebrate local Maryland scenes. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends or by appointment. 301466-2413.

”If These Walls Could Sing ... “ — through Oct. 26, Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Featuring local artists Sonja Mishalanie and Kathryn Phebus, in a tribute to the role music plays in the creative process. Hours are Saturday and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. eastsidearts313@gmail.com.

”Harvest Hues” — through Oct. 26, Gallery 322, 322 N. Market St., Frederick. Celebrates the abundance of fall with paintings, sculptures and assemblages that highlight the season’s rural activities. Many of these works reflect the bounty of farms and garden plots that fill the local farmers’ markets, stores and area restaurants. Hours are 4-7 p.m. Friday, noon-8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. or by appointment. 240-9612242 or gallery322.com.

”Futurity Dredge” — through Oct. 31 at Vault of Visions Art Gallery, 1 N. Market St., Frederick. Featuring artwork by James Connors, whose

”Around Our House” — Nov. 1-30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Using traditional oil painting methods and the tradition of still life as a theme, C. Fred Tyner’s works take on a contemporary feel when the specificity of the objects are considered, merging the past with the present. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. 301-6980656 or delaplaine.org.

Veterans Show — Nov. 1-30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This biennial exhibition showcases artwork made by former service members of the United States military. Works in a variety of media. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. 301-6980656 or delaplaine.org.

”After Party” — Nov. 1-30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Mixed media by Eric Rottcher. His work in this exhibition is an exploration of notions like joy, chaos, identity, and the tensions between the highs and lows in life. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

work invites viewers to experience drawing not only as a visual act but as a deeply spiritual practice of perception, transformation and creation. Connors explores the ways in which organic textures, machinic forms and intuitive mark-making reveal a state of unending birth. 240-315-5483.

Frederick County Art Association

2025 Exhibit — through Jan. 5, 2026, Frederick Health — Crestwood, 7211 Bank Court, Frederick. Works in oil, watercolor, mixed media and photography by some of Frederick County’s most talented artists. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240-215-1460 or frederickhealth.org/crestwood.

”Fleeting” — Nov. 1-30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Photography by Garett and Kacie Walker. Bridging the gap between documentary and conceptual photography, the work in this exhibition is a look into the relationship between humanity and the natural world, reminding us that life is fleeting. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. 301-6980656 or delaplaine.org.

”The Women, The Houses, The Water” — Nov. 1-30, Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Lee Foran’s contribution to the exhibition is a series of fiberbased creations that weave together narratives of domestic life, human connection and personal reflection. Linda D. Acierto’s evocative seascapes, in acrylics, inspired by the oceans, seas and bodies of water she has encountered both locally and during her travels abroad. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. eastsidearts313@gmail.com.

”Natural World in Photography: East Meets West” — Nov. 1-30, Links Bridge Vineyards, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. Exhibit of artwork by Maryland naturalist photographer Jim Mosher. The exhibit presents views of nature recorded while traveling the country and sailing the East Coast. It includes images of the western landscape and wildlife, and of the Chesapeake Bay and waters south along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. Open weekends 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. or by appointment. 301602-5733 or linksbridgevineyards. com.

(Continued from 4)

fun and engaging experiences for teens, and a host of thoughtprovoking programs for adults.”

Brick and mortar can’t contain FCPL’s resources and services, Hissong went on. “We love connecting with the community through our bookmobiles and pop-up library experiences. It’s important for us to always be meeting new people and to invite them to use and enjoy all the library has to offer.”

FCPL strives to meet people where they are, so FCPL uses a plethora of marketing methods to reach existing and perspective customers.

“For the past several years, use of Frederick County’s public libraries has grown tremendously, because our team is doing a great job connecting with the community through outreach and showing them that there really is something for everyone at their public library,” FCPL communications manager Kelly Cambrel said.

WEBSTER

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McClurg accepted the introduction, and he and Carrera began corresponding. About six months later, McClurg visited Frederick for the first time to meet Carrera in person, and their collaboration grew from those early encounters.

“One of the most meaningful things [professor Bauer] did for me was to be very giving about reaching out to his own network on my behalf,” McClurg said. “I truly can’t thank him enough for it.”

When McClurg called, Carrera said they immediately connected. They exchanged manuscripts and realized it was only natural that they might someday share a reading together.

The library system has grown their audience across digital platforms like social media and through their website. FCPL also continues to produce various print marketing that is used in branches and at outreach events. FCPL also reaches out to people in person

and through text messaging and USPS mail.

“At the end of the day, we’re here to provide library services to every person in Frederick County,” Cambrel said. “Increased traffic indicates that we’re moving closer to that goal.”

IF YOU GO

“Re-Defining Narrative and Illustration” exhibition, book reading and conversation with Johnny Carrera and novelist Brook McClurg. Free and open to the public on Oct. 25 at 20 W. Second St., Frederick. Attendees can park at the Church Street parking deck.

1 p.m. — exhibition of art and books inspired by the Illustrations of Merriam-Webster Dictionaries

2:50 p.m. — opening reception with light refreshments and both authors available to sign books.

5:25 p.m. — Carrera and McClurg will make introduction and give history of the illustrations that connect their two books. Carrera will share the story of Noah Webster’s sojourn in Frederick in 1786. The authors will give short readings from their books, engage in conversation and take questions from the audience.

“At the outset, the idea was that it would just be Brook’s Reading, but then when Brook set his date … I thought, surely I would have the first version of my book ready to share

by then, and I asked if I could join him,” Carrera said. “Because both books were inspired by dictionaries and the same set of illustrations, it gives the reading a unique focus.”

THEATER

Inebriated Halloween blends history, humor and haunts at MET-X

MET-X invites audiences to raise a glass and join the fun with its latest installment of the hit “Inebriated” series: “Inebriated Halloween.” The show opens Oct. 24, and runs for two weekends at the Maryland Ensemble Theatre in downtown Frederick.

Created by Laura Stark and Thomas Scholtes, “Inebriated Halloween” blends history, hilarity and a touch of terror in a raucous night of storytelling. With the technical expertise of Stephen Craig and Shayden Jamison, this spooky spin on the series promises some of the scariest — and possibly most inebriated — stories yet.

“The Inebriated Series has been perfect for any holiday or historical event,” said director Laura Stark. “Halloween has always been my favorite time of the year, and bringing them both together seemed like the perfect fit!”

The production is led by director Laura Stark, with Scholtes doubling as assistant director and performer. Joining them behind the scenes are stage manager Shayden Jamison, sound designer Stephen Craig and properties designer Olivia Pietanza.

The cast brings to life (and afterlife) an outrageous lineup of characters: Thomas Scholtes as FDR, Jesus, and Clark Gable; Sonny Etzler as Orson Welles, Monster, and Al Jolson; Katie Cave as H.G. Wells, Scientist, and Squirrel; Lauren Johnson as In Black, Bobby “Boris” Pickett, and Joan Crawford; and Lori Laird as Judy Garland and Dr. Richard Burr.

Part improv, part sketch, “Inebriated Halloween” is a celebration of history’s most haunting tales told through a boozy, comedic lens.

Performances take place Oct. 24 through Nov. 1. Please note this production is intended for audiences 21 and over.

Showtimes are at 8 p.m., with two showtimes on Oct. 31 at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased by phone at 301-694-4744, online at marylandensemble.org, or in person at the MET at 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

explores the beauty in the paranormal and macabre Strathmore’s

BY ERIN JONES Special to The News-Post

Alarming reports of paranormal activity have emerged from the Mansion at Strathmore in North Bethesda. The portraits have icy stares that follow visitors as they walk past. Macabre works of art have appeared — a flour crafted from bone, a broomstick suspended in the air, a black dress evocative of a gothic novel. And then there’s the inexplicable, spine-tingling sensation of the supernatural.

These strange sightings began to appear Oct. 4 and are expected to continue through Nov. 8 as part of the Mansion’s “Hauntings” exhibition. In addition to the ghostly gallery, a lineup of hauntings-themed programming will also be offered.

Many visitors to Strathmore may have enjoyed a performance at the grand music hall, walking through the tunnel of undulating rainbow lights to and from the parking garage. However, the 1902 Mansion, a short walk from the hall, is a vibrant venue itself. The Mansion serves as a more intimate concert space, wedding and private event venue, and art gallery.

The Mansion also serves as the setting for Afternoon Tea, a beloved tradition in its 40th year. Tea time at Strathmore typically takes place on Tuesday, Wednesday and sometimes Saturdays at 1 p.m. and mirrors the English tradition of high tea. While October’s Afternoon Teas have been seasonally themed as a nod to Halloween and the “Hauntings” exhibition, the Mansion is also offering a special Midnight Tea on Oct. 24.

Rather than occurring at midnight in a literal sense, the tea takes place at 9 p.m. but invites visitors to imagine the eeriness of a midnight tea. The aesthetic is inspired by the darkness of a midnight sky where the stars are scant. The tea is herbal, so sleep will not be hindered, and pours a deep purple hue. The setting will include music and literary nods to macabre masters like Edgar Allan Poe. While the event will be on the first floor, some of the participating artists from the “Hauntings” exhibition upstairs will be

giving demonstrations to show how their artwork was created.

The “Hauntings” art show is located on the second floor gallery of the Mansion.

“The show’s premise is about that sense you get — that sixth sense — that maybe something beyond your ability to see is with you, standing beside you,” said Lesley Morris, director of Mansion Galleries and the curator of the show, along with Ari Edwards and Tyler Christian. “That’s the beginning concept of this, that there’s some beauty in the paranormal or the macabre.”

The collection draws on a variety of media: prints, oil paintings, watercolor, charcoal, pastel, ceramics and sculptures, as well as a few unusual forms. Tony Shore’s “Fortune Teller,” for example, is acrylic on velvet. Josie Kirckof’s “The Bone Rose” is a delicate flower, crafted from fish bones.

“Whether it’s a beautiful broom that’s been carved by an artist or an oil painting that pulls from references from ‘The Raven’ by Edgar Allan Poe, all of the pieces are imaginative, and the viewer can take that piece and bring it into their own memory or their own sense of what that kind of scary storytelling does,” Morris said.

The Mansion’s setting adds to the gallery’s immersive experience.

“The Mansion has wonderful historic architecture and elements that lean into this time period,” Morris said. “There’s a romanticism to ghost stories and to films with spectres and spirits in them. This time period that the house was built provides a really unique atmosphere that you wouldn’t get in a traditional contemporary gallery space.”

Hauntings goes beyond visual art, however. Its array of accompanying events reflects the diversity of functionality and art forms that the Mansion can host.

On Oct. 11, the front lawn, which contains a gazebo and hosts free concerts in the summer, was transformed into a parade grounds for the Halloween Pet Parade. Participants showcased their costumed animals. The event drew around 50 people

Strathmore CEO and Jefferies Hazangeles

Compass Atelier Art

Kessler,

presided over the event, awarding prizes for best pet/companion costume, best overall costume and best homemade costume.

Kessler will return on Nov. 5 to give a lecture titled “The Gothic Color Palette,” taking audiences through his top five scariest works of art in the Western canon. His remarks will explore not only the works themselves but the influence those pieces have had on art and design.

On Nov. 1, the mansion will host a screening of the 1922 silent film “Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror,” with live accompaniment from Strathmore’s artist-in-residence musicians. They will perform an original film score composed by a former Strathmore artist-in-residence, Simone Baron, and the screening will mark its world premiere.

The silent film was directed with a metronome to keep a unified rhythm to the work, a quality that has garnered the interest of composers over the years.

“Because there is such a strong rhythm throughout the movie, musicians love to work with it,” Morris

The Mansion at Strathmore creates an atmospheric setting for its “Hauntings” art exhibition and coinciding fall programming.

Photos courtesy of The Mansion at Strathmore

IF YOU GO

“Hauntings” art exhibition exploring supernatural themes runs through Nov. 8 at the historic Mansion featuring ghostly artwork in its galleries alongside special events that celebrate the macabre and mysterious.

Midnight Tea (9 p.m. Oct. 24, $60) reimagines Strathmore’s beloved Afternoon Tea as a decadent after-dark experience, with ghostly ambiance and guests who possess extrasensory abilities.

A Live Music

noted. “The way that the film was directed opens the mind of composers to really think about the imagery on the film and what sounds, music and melody can enhance that.”

Whether through costumed animals, music, film, visual arts or tea, the Strathmore is celebrating the spooky and sublime in unique, creative ways this fall. The exhibition and accompanying events are two years in the making and with no plans to be repeated, so visitors interested in experiencing Hauntings should make plans now to catch it before it vanishes.

Erin Jones is a freelance writer, former humanities teacher and owner of Galvanize & Grow Copywriting. She holds a BA in English from Hood College and an MA in English from the Bread Loaf School of English, through which she studied literature at Middlebury College and Oxford University. Learn more at erinjoneswriter.com, or follow her on Instagram @ErinJonesWriter.

Screening of “Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror” (7:30 p.m. Nov. 1, $34) presents the 1922 silent film classic accompanied by live musicians from Strathmore’s artists in residence program.

“The Gothic Color Palette” lecture (7:30 p.m. Nov. 5, $12) features artist Glen Kessler revealing his top five scariest artworks from the Western canon, sharing unnerving backstories and the artistic techniques behind their macabre mood. The Mansion at Strathmore is at 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville. Call 301581-5100 for more information.

Over 130 vendors

All kinds of fibery goodness!

The Frederick Fairgrounds, Frederick

local food trucks+tastings

Fleece Sale

Hosted by Frederick County Sheep Breeder’s Association

Kids Zone from 11am-2pm

Face painting by Tigers & Unicorns, Oh My ($)

Local Food Trucks

Eklectic Coffee, Grilled Cheese Please!, Rice Around the World, The Pita King, The Savagery Food Truck, Three Daughters Food Truck, Traditional Authentic Mexican Food, and Wonderbowls

fall!

DON’T MISS FLICKS & FIBERS this

Sunday, October 26

Warehouse Cinemas Frederick 1301 W Patrick St, Frederick

Fried Green Tomatoes 11:30am & 1:00pm

Enjoy a unique movie experience where you can relax in heated recliners, work on your latest yarn creation and enjoy watching a movie on the big screen. Tickets are only $5. Special themed brunch cocktails available.

PLUS, CHECK OUT THE FiberFest Swap Meet/Yard Sale and stop by the FiberFest table for a chance to win prizes.

The first 50 people to stop by the FiberFest table on Sunday will receive a free tote bag.

This Halloween, treat yourself to your nostalgic TV favorite

As a young, obnoxiously precocious child, Halloween was, surprisingly, my favorite time of year.

MICHAEL HUNLEY

I say surprisingly because I was a fairly timid boy, scared of the dark and even walking down the horror movie section in the video store. But there was just something about the Halloween season, when the elaborate and spooky decorations came out and the leaves started changing as the weather got cold ... well, back when the weather actually got cold around this time before we ruined the climate.

But I just loved it all, and some of my happiest memories as a child are from Halloween and getting dressed up and going trick-or-treating. But nostalgia is a fickle mistress at times, and my experiences during that time may not have been as lovely as I recall (such as how my mother recently reminded me of the one Halloween I ate too much candy and projectile vomited in bed on my Teddy Ruxpin).

There is one part of my youthful Halloween past, though, that does still hold up and isn’t tainted by Snickers-laced vomit — and that’s the Halloween TV specials that I watched seasonally as a kid and still love to this day.

I truly believe in my heart that every family has a Halloween TV special that they watch together every year, whether it’s the Garfield Halloween special from the ‘80s where he’s haunted by ghost pirates or the “That’s So Raven” episode where she turns into a cow. In my family, though, my TV-obsessed self made us watch everything every year, from “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” to “Raggedy Ann and Andy in The Pumpkin Who Couldn’t Smile” (I didn’t say everything we watched was good).

My absolute favorite, though, was a British-made special called “The Worst Witch,” starring Diana Rigg, Tim Curry and Mrs. Garrett from “The Facts of Life.” Based on a series of books, it was sort of the

Harry Potter before Harry Potter became a thing, focusing on a young witch and her misadventures at a magical school. And to say I was obsessed with “The Worst Witch” is an understatement — I rewatched it all the time, quoted it constantly and sang the songs continuously (oh, yes, it was a musical, too). If “The Worst Witch” was a Labubu, I would have bought all of them and hung them anywhere and everywhere.

About four Halloweens ago, wanting to see if it was as wonderful as I remembered, I decided to hunt down “The Worst Witch” after having not seen it for nearly 30 years (which is crazy because I’m only, ahem, a doe-eyed 21-year-old). I found a copy of the DVD on eBay (yes, I still collect DVDs) and popped it in and ... well, it was not as good as I remembered. It was even BETTER! From the wonky production values to the awful special effects and ridiculous songs, it was an absolute delight in ‘80s cheesiness, something

I have a soft spot for in my heart.

Because that’s all part of the joy of these TV specials. They capture the essence of our childhood joy during Halloween and wrap it up in a roughly 24-minute treat that’s a little scary but mostly goofy.

Many will tell you that it’s no use living in the past through nostalgia, but there is something to be said for at least trying to ease modern societal pain by rewatching something you loved as a kid that can still bring you amusement. I mean, if enough adults rewatch “Happy Gilmore” so much that Netflix makes a sequel to it, then I can have my yearly rewatch of “The Worst Witch.”

The same extends to a lot of Halloween-centric kids’ movies that are perennial favorites, like “Hocus Pocus” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” which have fandoms that have truly taken on a life of their own, judged solely by the merchandise found at Hot Topic

and that one goth girl from your high school who always wore black Doc Martens boots during gym class. These films have become so beloved that parents who loved them when they were kids are sharing them with their own kids, thus creating new holiday memories. We’ll never fully be able to experience Halloween as a child again (and based on my experiences, that might be for the best), but that doesn’t mean we can’t occasionally try to recapture that youthful high without having to dress up as a Ninja Turtle and go door to door with an old pillowcase. Because if you can’t make time to watch Tim Curry singing in front of a green screen while dressed as a vampire Liberace, then you’re truly missing the spirit of Halloween. Michael Hunley is a copy editor at POLITICO’s E&E News in D.C. He previously worked as a copy editor for The Frederick News-Post. Contact him at mr85mt@gmail.com. Metro

7TH ANNUAL HARVESTFEST ARTISAN AND CRAFT FAIR

SAVE THE DATE

Sat Oct 25, 10a-7p Sun Oct 26, 9a-1p

St John Regional Catholic School Gym at St Katharine Drexel Catholic Church 8414 Opossumtown Pike Frederick, MD 21702

Participant inquiries and additional info: https://www saintdrexel org/ event/harvestfest-2024/

CASH BINGO

Johnsville Ruritan

Sat., Nov. 1, 2025

New Midway Fire Hall

$20 00 Per Person

Doors open 5p; Bingo: 7p 20 Reg Games, 3 Specials & Tip-Jars; Food avail Proceeds for Scholarship Fund

Tickets: Karen 410-775-7519

CASH BINGO

Sunday, Nov 2, 2025

Woodsboro American Legion Auxiliary Doors open 12 pm, games @ 1:30 pm $40 for 25 games, includes 3 specials @ $150 and 2 jackpots @ $500; Reserve early and receive free special game-call Peggy at 301-514-7164; King tuts, bingo balls, holder jars and door prizes; Food, drinks, baked goods available.

Donate canned food item for local food bank and receive free special game Proceeds benefit scholarships, veterans, and youth

COUNTRY KITCHEN CARRY-OUT

St Paul's Lutheran Church 5 E Main St, Burkittsville MD

Apple Dumplings $6 00 ea Bean Soup $9/qt

Beef Slippery Pot Pie $10/qt

Country ham sandwiches $5 00 each

Bake table available

Pre order by Oct 25

Pick-up Sat Nov 1 (9am-11am)

Call 301-473-5299 or 301-834-8915

FREE CONCERT

Bring your friends and family and enjoy the music of HOPPIN’ MOLLY

Sun., Oct. 26, 2025, at 4 PM St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1914 Ballenger Creek Pike Point of Rocks, MD

A free-will offering will be collected to benefit COIPP!

GLADE UCC OYSTER, TURKEY & HAM

BUFFET DINNER

Walkersville Fire Hall

79 W Frederick St Fri Nov 7 • 4-7p Sat Nov 8 • 11a-4p

Adults: $30 cash $31 credit card

Children 6-12: $15 5 & under: Free Carry-Outs: $1 extra Avail until 3:30p on Sat Dinner@Gladechurch org 301-845-6775

HENRY'S

HAM SANDWICH, CRANBERRY RELISH AND BAKE SALE

St John's Lutheran Church 8619 Black's Mill Road, Creagerstown, Thurmont MD

When: November 22nd from 10 Am – 1 PM Country Ham sandwiches and City Ham w/Cheese sandwiches $5 each Cranberry relish is offered in two sizes: pints for $4 and quarts for $7 Requests for Baked Items are also being taken. Deadline for Orders: November 16

To order, please contact Carmi Sayler at 301-401-0633 or text 240-529-7471 with your request

HOLIDAY BAZAAR

Calvary UM Church 131 W Second Street Frederick, MD November 15 9:00am-3:00pm

Handmade Crafts, Holiday Decorations, Silent Auction, Kids Crafts, White Elephant Room, Luncheon from 11:00-1:00, Live Music, Bake Sale, Calvary’s famous Cheeseballs, and a trip for the children to the North Pole to see Santa! Come to shop, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and ring in the season!!!

HOLIDAY BAZAAR

Sat., Nov. 15th, 2025

Libertytown Fire Hall 8:00 am – 2:00 pm 12027 South St Libertytown, MD 21762

Crafts, Homemade goodies, sandwiches, soups, bake table, raffles and much more For more information for table rentals call Mary 301-401-2824

Sponsored by Libertytown Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary

MEAT BINGO

Occtober 25, 2025

$40 Admission Includes 6 Card pack And Meal 20 Games 10 Games for Meat Packages Worth $150+ 10 Games for $100 Cash Doors open @ 5:30 Games start @ 7 p.m. Woodsboro Volunteer Fire Co 2 South Third St , Woodsboro, MD For reservations and info Call Nancy at: 240-405-2068 Maximum 150 players Snacks and beverages available for purchase NO Outside food or drinks allowed

NEW YEAR'S EVE BINGO

12-31-2025

Thurmont Event Complex

Over $17,000

Doors Open @ 5:00 p.m.,

Bingo Starts @ 8:00 p.m.

Meal Served: 6-8 p m

CASH BAR • TIP JARS

Kitchen Open During Break

Local Mentions Local Mentions Local Mentions

No Reserved Seating - First Come, First Served Basis Only No Exceptions!

**We reserve the right to lower payouts if less than 300 tickets sold**

Tickets: 301-748-5359 or 301-271-3820 or Eventbrite.com

Benefits The Thurmont Community Ambulance Company 13716 Strafford Drive Thurmont, MD 21788

NEW YEAR’S EVE BINGO & BUFFET

(Buffet of Turkey & Shrimp)

December 31, 2025

New Midway Vol Fire Co

Doors Open: 5:00 Games Start: 7:30 Admission: $50 00 by 12/16/2024, After 12/16/2024 $60 00 includes 30 Reg Games $100 Minimum$1000 Jackpot Free Party Favors Extra Cards Available Only 250 Tickets Sold ATM Available For Info Call 301-898-7985 or 301-271-4650

PRYOR'S ORCHARD

Apples, Pears & Cider

Ida Red, Late Fuji, Stayman Cameo, Red & Yellow Delicious Apples

Bosc & Asian Pears Honey, Nuts, Jellies & Fruit Butters

Also veggies as available White & Sweet Potatoes

Cauliflower & Broccoli

Turnips & Winter Squash & Assortment of Fall Items

Always call first: 301-271-2693

Open Daily 8:00am-6:00pm 2 miles west of Thurmont off Route 15 take 77 West, 1 mile to Pryor Rd www PryorsOrchard com

SCENIC VIEW ORCHARDS

Crimson Crisp, EverCrisp, Mutsu, Cameo, Stayman, Golden Delicious, Cortland, Ginger Gold, Gala, Honey Crisp Apples, Asian, Bosc, Bartlett, Seckel & Magness Pears, Apple & Pear Cider, Plums, Kennebec Potatoes, Beans, Onions, Cole crops Tomatoes, Squash, Peppers Honey, Jams, Jellies 16239 Sabillasville Rd Sabillasville MD 21780 Open 10:00-5:00 Daily 301-271-2149 scenicvieworchards com

Frederick Farmers Market 1215 West Patrick St

Every Saturday 10-1:00 YMCA Farmers Market 1000 North Market St Every Tuesday 3:30-6:30

SOUP & SUB SALE

Middletown Volunteer Fire Company Auxiliary Carry-Out Only

Chicken Noodle Soup - $9/qrt 8" Subs-ham, turkey & cold cut w/cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion & pickle: $8/ea Country ham sandwiches: $5/ea

Cut-off date: 10/29

Pick up date: 11/5

10AM-6PM at MVFC Activities Building 1 Fireman's Lane

Karen 443-871-9075 lv msg

Janie 301-471-9604 lv msg

Lisa 301-639-1416 lv msg/text

Pat 301-524-6169 text

Thank you for your support!

SPORTSMAN’S BINGO

Sat, November 8, 2025

DOORS OPEN 5:00, BUFFET 6:00

GAMES BEGIN 7:30

NEW MIDWAY VOL FIRE CO

20 Games (10 Games paying $200 Cash, 10 Games for Guns), 50/50, Money Jars, Gun Jars

$40/Person includes Buffet Dinner

Tickets: Buddy 301-271-4650 or Nick 301898-7985

THURMONT CHRISTMAS MARKET CRAFT AND VENDOR SHOW

Sat., Nov. 15 & Sun. Nov. 16

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thurmont Event Complex 13716 Strafford Drive, Thurmont, MD

Food will be available for purchase provided by the Thurmont Ambulance Company

Santa will be visiting

Vendor information: Contact Jennifer at jensgems2018@yahoo com or 301-800-3336

General Information: Contact Joyce at 301-748-4344

*All proceeds benefit the Thurmont Community Ambulance Company*

TURKEY,

FRIED

OYSTER

& COUNTRY HAM DINNER

Bush Creek Church of the Brethren 4821A Green Valley Road, Monrovia, Maryland 21770

Rt. 75 Between Rt. 80 and Monrovia 301-865-3013

Saturday, October 25, 2025 12:00 p m – 5:00 p m

Ticket sales begin @ 11 am

Menu includes mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, sauerkraut, cranberry sauce, dressing, cole slaw, rolls, butter, ice tea, hot tea and coffee Adults - $35; Children 6-12 - $12 Under 6 – Free; Carry-Out - $31 Cash or check. No credit cards.

VIGILANT HOSE

COMPANY NEW YEAR'S EVE BINGO 17701 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg, MD Wednesday, 12/31

Doors Open @ 5:30pm Games @ 8pm All Inclusive 9 pk/$50 for 30 games incl 2 $2000 Jackpots 6 SPECIALS @ $500 each All other games $300/Incl Dinner Platter!

Reserved seating if tickets purchased by 12/12

Tickets purchased after 12/12 will be $60 No checks mailed after 11/28 For info: Pam @ 240-472-3484

Reserve right to change payouts if 200 are not sold

WEEKLY BINGO

Every Friday Night Doors open @ 5 p m , Bingo starts @ 7 p.m.

Bonanza, Early Bird, Regular, Specials, Jackpot!

Small Jackpot-$500 Big Jackpot-$1500 Great Food!

Thurmont Event Complex 13716 Strafford Drive Thurmont, Maryland

Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, Inc

WOLFSVILLE RURITAN CLUB

Fresh Pork Butchering Nov 14-15

Request a Price List and preorder at RuritanClubMD@aol com (preferred) or 301-293-2426 by 11/2

EARLY 1941 CASE SC

Runs well, new battery, mechanically sound, new tires $2500 OBO Call 301674-4934 or 240-793-9786

ESTATE SALE

Inside, Fri, Sat & Sun Oct 24 - Oct 26

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 417 Logan St, Frederick

INDOOR/ OUTDOOR YARD SALE

Saturday Nov 1, 2025

8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lewistown Vol Fire Dept 11101 Hessong Bridge Road

LIQUOR

COLLECTOR

Searching for SEALED / UNOPENED liquor bottles, older the better! Payment in CASH! Christopher Text/Call 443-244-2084

SMALL TOY POODLE PUPPY 4 SALE

Chocolate male toy poodle Family raised and socialized. Up to date on vaccines, dewormed and micro-chipped He comes with a written health guarantee and a nice puppy kit with food Born-7/13/25 Asking $950 00 if interested please call 301-241-4159

CHILDCARE - MIDDLETOWN, MD (SPECIAL)

Kiddies World Daycare presents a unique opportunity for its TODDLER slots, offering six weeks of FREE daycare for new fulltime enrollments One FREE week each month for the first six months!!!!!!! Limited slots available Call for additional details

Services Services Services

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SHADY GROVE CABINET SHOP

STRICTLY STUMPS & MORE TREE

Thursday Oct. 23

CLASSES

Parsons Newman Lecture Series: “What So Proudly We Hailed: Francis Scott Key, A Life,” with Marc Leepson — 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. In his biography, “What So Proudly We Hailed: Francis Scott Key, A Life,” the historian and journalist Marc Leepson explores the life and legacy of the former Frederick County resident, and reveals unexplored details of the life of this American patriot: including how the young Washington lawyer found himself in Baltimore Harbor on the night of Sept. 13-14, 1814; how the poem he wrote morphed into the National Anthem; and his role as a confidant of President Andrew Jackson. 410-707-1105. outreach@frederickhistory.org.

ESL High Beginner’s Conversation Classes — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 East Moser Road, Thurmont. We welcome adults who want to practice their English to a conversation class hosted by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Students will practice their speaking and listening skills with conversations guided by an instructor from the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Please note, registration is required by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Tween Create-a-Ghost Portrait (ages 9-13) — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Step into the haunted art studio! In this program, you’ll design and create your very own ghost portrait — silly, spooky, or stylish. All supplies are provided, and your one-of-a-kind ghostly artwork will be yours to take home.

301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Teen Time: Painting with Wool (ages 1118) — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Create a festive fall pumpkin design on fabric with wool! Learn about how to “paint” with wool using the art of needlefelting. This program is for teens in 6th through 12th grades. 301-600-7250. fcpl.org.

ETCETERA

Mason Dixon flea market — at Tonya Pilkerton , 14637 Sherwood Drive, Greencastle, Pa. New open air flea market alongside I-81, open weekends through Oct. 31. Vendors, food, restrooms, picnic tables, benches to rest. Kids set up free and fundraisers are free. 717-765-1311. tonyaschroyer@yahoo.com.

2025 Exhibits at the Museum of Frederick History — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. See our all new and renovated exhibits, now through Dec. 13. $10 adults, $5 seniors and students. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

Adult Adaptive Program: Finger Painting and Dance — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Middletown Branch Librar , 31 E. Green St., Middletown. This program is developed for adults with developmental disabilities and their caregivers. Come and create art, fun, and memories! Each person will be given a canvas to work on, and our instructor, Patty, will guide you through some fun techniques to use. After this 30-minute art class, we will put on some fun dance music, and people can look at what others have created! 18 and older. 301-600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Curators of The Culture @ Hood College — 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Hood College, 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Art, music, books, animation and more. Hosted and organized by Taurean Washington. 301-465-1087. tcw1@hood.edu. www.taureanverse.com.

Trick or Terror — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. Community members are invited to dress up for trick-or-treating and participate in fun activities with McDaniel’s athletic teams. Located in Kenneth R. Gill Stadium at McDaniel College. ocm@mcdaniel.edu. www.mcdanielathletics.com.

“Unsettling” Candlelight Walking Tour of Mount Olivet Cemetery — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Key Chapel of Mount Olivet Cemetery, 515 S. Market St., Frederick. All new edition of the tour for 2025. This is not a ghost tour, although we will talk about one or two. Instead, the name of the “walking class” says it all, as the stories slated to be reverently told are guaranteed to leave you with an uncomfortable and “unsettled” feeling. You will likely feel sorrow, compassion and empathy for the decedents whose graves are visited on our sojourn. Many have been featured in historian Chris Haugh’s ongoing “Stories in Stone” blog series. $20. 240-285-8519. calicojac@comcast.net. history-shark-productions.coursestorm.com/ category/walking-tour.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 7 p.m. to at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Frederick. Take a remarkable journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge. True documented stories of the “paranormal” with “Maryland’s Oldest Operating Ghost Tour!” Reservations recommended. $17 for adults. 301-668-8922. info@MarylandGhostTours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

23rd URBANA INDOOR ART & CRAFT SHOW

Urbana

Sponsored

FAMILY

Musical Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Music, movement and stories for the whole family. Designed for babies of all ages with a caregiver. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Elementary Explorers: Skeletons — 2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Participate in a variety of experiences related to science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. This program is designed for children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. 301-6007200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Safe Harvest — 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Hood College, 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Families from the Frederick community are invited to this safe, free, and student-run trick-ortreating Halloween celebration. Safe Harvest provides games, arts and crafts, activities and more for parents and children under the age of 12. Participants are encouraged to dress in their Halloween costumes. Parents or guardians are required to accompany their children throughout the evening.

Family Fun: STEM Night — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. STEM related stations will be set up for hands-on fun and experimentation. Age group: Elementary. 301-600-6329. cdillman@frederickcountymd.gov. fcpl.org.

FESTIVALS

Fall Festival — at Summers Farm, 7503 Hollow Road, Middletown. 45+ exciting activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! 301-304-3031. info@summersfarm.com. www.summersfarm.com/fall-festival.

GALLERY

Four Alumnae, Four Paths Open Reception — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. A variety of works are showcased by recent McDaniel College Art alums EJ Lee, a mixed media collage artist who graduated from McDaniel in 2015; Sarah Méndez, a narrative figure painter who is a 2024 graduate of McDaniel; Quyen Nguyen, a multidisciplinary artist who earned a bachelor’s degree in 2020; and Brenay Spencer, who is a 2024 graduate of McDaniel working in various media, including clay, fiber, paint, and photography.  410-857-2595. ocm@mcdaniel.edu.

HEALTH

“Unprepared for the Next Pandemic” featuring Dr. Stanley Plotkin — 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at Beneficial-Hodson Library 2006, 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Join the Microbiology, Public Health & History film festival at Hood College for a showing of “Contagion” (2011). The film will be followed by a panel discussion on various issues that this film raises. Panelists include Dr. Stanley Plotkin, of the Wistar Institute, who helped develop our current rubella vaccine; Dr. René Najera, of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia; Brian Dean Abramson, of the National Vaccine Law Association; and physician assistant Deanna Bridge Najera. Refreshments will be provided. RSVP at chee@hood.edu, as seating is limited. Also on Zoom; register online for a Zoom invitation (https://tinyurl.com/ mph-film-fest). 931-301-6996. chee@hood. edu. tinyurl.com/mph-film-fest.

MUSIC

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older. 301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

Friday Oct. 24

ETCETERA

Day Trip: Virginia Arboretum — 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Frederick Senior Center, 1440 Taney Ave., Frederick. The State Arboretum of Virginia stands in the center of the 172 acres of Blandy Experimental Farm (Boyce, Va.). Learn about Blandy’s curious and quirky history while discovering unique tree specimens in the collection. The labelled tree and shrub collections date back to the early 1930s. The arboretum has the largest Conifer collection in the Southeast and a 300 hundred tree Gingko grove. After the guided tour, take time to explore on your own.

$35. 301-600-7020. virtualseniorcenter@ frederickcountymd.gov. frederickcountymd.gov.

Guided Exhibit Tours — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Experience the Museum of Frederick County History through a guided tour. Join either archivist Jody Brumage or curator Amy Hunt as they explore the exhibits. Each tour is a unique experience based on the interests of the group and what special things staff wants to highlight that week. Descriptions

of each week’s tour can be found on the Heritage Frederick website, which includes accessibility notes. Tours are included with admission.

$5, $10. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org. frederickhistory.org/event-calendar. McDaniel College Athletics Hall of Fame Celebration — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. McDaniel College’s Alumni Association honors alumni athletes who personify the college’s tradition of excellence with the Athletics Hall of Fame awards. Visit mcdaniel.edu/homecoming to purchase tickets or for more information. Located in Baker Memorial Chapel at McDaniel College. ocm@mcdaniel.edu. mcdaniel.edu/homecoming.

Night of the Living Drag — 7 p.m. to at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. The Divas are back in The Maryland Theatre Ballroom for Night of the Living Drag — a Halloween-themed drag show! Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and creepy specialty cocktails to keep you fueled for this 2-hour spooktacular performance. See website for ticket information. 21 and older. 301-790-2000. boxoffice@mdtheatre.org. www.mdtheatre.org/night-of-the-living-drag.

Sara’s Sandbox — 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Cactus Flats, 10026 Hansonville Road, Frederick. Variety of music.

Spooky Skate Night — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Skate Frederick, 1288 Riverbend Way, Frederick. A night of costumes, music and skating fun! Wear your best costume and skate to Halloween hits all night. Costume contest prizes for most creative, funniest and

scariest costumes will be awarded at 9 p.m! Don’t miss this fun night on the ice at Skate Frederick! All ages. $8 admission + $4 skate rental. 301-662-7362. skatefrederick.com/public-skating.

FAMILY

Storytime Stretchers — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Story Stretchers brings stories to life through gentle stretching movements, helping children connect with tales in an interactive, playful way. As kids listen, stretch and move, they will build early literacy skills while fostering body awareness and mindfulness in a fun, engaging environment! This storytime is geared for ages up to 5 with a caregiver.  301-600-7200. bbrannen@ frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Superhero Storytime Stretchers — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Story Stretchers brings stories to life through gentle stretching movements, helping children connect with tales in an interactive, playful way. As kids listen, stretch and move, they will build early literacy skills while fostering body awareness and mindfulness in a fun, engaging environment! This storytime is geared for ages up to 5 with a caregiver. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Trail of Jack-O-Lanterns with Trick or Treating — 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Green Meadows Petting Farm, 10102 Fingerboard Road, Ijamsville. Admission includes our

Trail, fire pits, fun farm show, and our Animal Barn (open 6 to 9 p.m.), trick-or-treating for children from 7 to 8 p.m. The Trail closes at 9 p.m. Available for purchase will be night hayrides, pumpkin flashlights, Trick-or-Treat bags, glow necklaces, and more! Gates open 5:30 p.m. Last admission is 8:30 p.m.  $16 (credit) for 2 and older (babies free). 301865-9203. info@greenmeadowsevents.com. greenmeadowsevents.com.

Mount Scary presents Family Movie Night: “Halloweentown” — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Watkins Park , 615 Center St., Mount Airy. A fun night under the stars. Imagine finding out you are a witch and your grandmother (who is also a witch) lives in a magical place where those with special abilities can live in peace away from the mortal world! BYO seating. LHS Band Boosters will selling concessions at this event. Rain date Nov. 1. 301-829-1424. nhernandez@mountairymd.gov. www.mountairymd.gov.

Kindred Hills Hayride and Haunted Trail — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends at Kindred Hills, 8421 Ball Road, Frederick. The madness starts with a brief hayride into the darkness, then you’ll walk along a dimly lit trail through the woods that will lead you past haunted remnants of a previous time until you find your way back to the safety of the modern day. $30. 240-397-9825. info@kindredhills. com. kindredhills.com.

FESTIVALS

Downtown Hagerstown Halloween Block Party — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at South Potomac, 38 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Featuring bounce houses, trick-or-treat, and an epic costume contest (kids and adults) you’ll want to swoop in on this spooky-filled evening!  240-382-0520. lcarroll@hagerstownmd.org. mainstreethagerstown.org.

History Trick-or-Treat — 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 N. Market St., Frederick. Walk through history while trick or treating at our annual event. Move throughout the property visiting costumed characters to learn more about history and trick or treat at the same time! Fun for children and adults alike! All visitors 2 and older must register and are welcome to trick or treat. $5. 301-600-2936. fcprmarketing@FrederickCountyMD.gov. bit.ly/FCPRHistoryTrickOrTreat.

MUSIC

Drum Circle with Aya Cultural Arts Studio — 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Drum circle facilitator Ayanna Gallant of Aya Cultural Arts Studio weaves together her training in Village Music Circles, West African drumming and mindfulness to guide participants in a rhythmic journey playing amazing rhythms together, inviting various instruments from around the world, songs, movement and whatever else rhythmically moves you. Drop in on May 30, then fourth Fridays through October. $10 suggested donation. 301-662-4196. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. www.ayaarts.com.

FCC Welcomes Guitarist Diego Retana — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Frederick Community College, Visual & Performing Arts Center, 7932 Opossumtown Pike (JBK Theater, Parking Lot 9), Frederick. Concert featuring

The Pilgrims of Deep Run, a Baltimore-based ensemble bringing the rich sounds of Celtic music to life, and timesink, a jazz fusion band from NYC, blending genres and pushing boundaries. A $15 tax-deductible donation (per attendee) to the FCC Music Program is suggested. 301-846-2566. mgersten@frederick.edu. 2025DiegoRetana.eventbrite.com.

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Every Friday in the Cocktail Lab we’ll be servin’ up our deliciously wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right. 21 and older. 301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling. com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

THEATER

Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery — 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. Sherlock Holmes and his crime solving partner Dr. John Watson will take to the stage to solve one of the pair’s most notorious cases, The Hound of the Baskerville this fall. However, this is a Sherlock Holmes mystery with a twist. The play’s afoot! From the award-winning mastermind of mayhem, Ken Ludwig (Lend Me a Tenor and Moon Over Buffalo), comes a fast-paced comedy about everyone’s favorite detective. Tickets vary by day.

301-662-6600. WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“Inebriated Halloween” — 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. A hilarious and spooky journey through some of your soon-to-be favorite stories of history with the latest installment of the Inebriated series, “Inebriated Halloween.” Created by Laura Stark and Thomas Scholtes, with the technical expertise of Stephen Craig and Shayden Jamison. For mature audiences. $25. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/ inebriated-halloween.

Off-Key at MET Comedy Night — 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Do you love musicals but wish you could see something new? Do you enjoy comedy and live music? This show is a fully improvised musical based on your suggestions, accompanied by a full band that plays a unique improvised score right in front of your eyes!  $15. 301-6944744. contact@marylandensemble.org.

Saturday Oct. 25

CLASSES

Namaste for Dance: Yoga with Fawn & Reb3l Groove with Susan — 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Drop in for one or both classes. A great way to get energized for your weekend, it’s a Namaste for Dance collab! No experience necessary with these skilled instructors to guide you. See website for details and to register. $10 each class. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/programs/sky-stage. Freedom Bang Class — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road,

Walkersville. Freedom Bang is a pre-choreographed fusion of boxing, HIIT, hip hop, world dance, optional weighted gloves and just a touch of attitude. Offering a wide range of intensity options to help you customize your workout. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.

Conversation Class for English Language Learners — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Adults who want to practice their English are welcome to a conversation class hosted by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Participants will practice their speaking and listening skills with conversations guided by an instructor from the Literacy Council of Frederick County. 18 and older. 301-600-7250.

Green Burials with Michael Judd — 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at The Common Market Co-op, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. Are you curious about Home Funeral and Green Burial practices/options in Maryland? Join Michael Judd as he invites you to consider choices for endof-life care, home funeral, home burial, and green burial practices. $10. 301-663-3416. arobinson@commonmarket.coop. www.commonmarket.coop/classes-events/ green-burials-with-michael-judd.

Untold History: Scandalous, Tragic, and Unusual Stories from Burkittsville’s Past — 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at South Mountain Heritage Society, 3 E. Main St., Burkittsville. There are many stories from Burkittsville’s long history, some better known than others. This special walking tour will reveal forgotten stories from Burkittsville’s past, some funny and scandalous, some tragic and humanizing, and others just plain unusual. Tickets via Eventbrite. 240-818-1610. southmountainhs@gmail.com.

ETCETERA

McDaniel College Homecoming — at McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster. McDaniel College alumni, families, and friends are invited to cheer on the Green Terror while participating in McDaniel’s unique tailgating tradition. Registration is required for some alumni-specific events. Located in Kenneth R. Gill Stadium at McDaniel College. ocm@mcdaniel.edu. www.mcdaniel.edu/homecoming.

Mount Airy CROP Hunger Walk — 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Watkins Park, 615 Center St., Mount Airy. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. in the parking lot of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 609 Center St., with a walk around Watkins Park starting at 9 a.m. Register onsite or online Donations can also be made online with 25% of all funds raised remaining in our community to support the assistance programs of Mt. Airy NET. 301-829-9244. prospect.marvinchapel.umc@gmail.com. events.crophungerwalk.org/ crophungerwalks/event/mountairymd.

Annual Gigantic Used-Book Sale — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at South Mountain Heritage Society, 3 E. Main St., Burkittsville. Thousands of newly-donated books will be available for sale at the annual Gigantic Used Book Sale at South Mountain Heritage Society. 240-818-1610. southmountainhs@gmail.com. southmountainheritage.org/events.html. Myersville Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Municipal parking lot, 301 Main St., Myers-

ville. Saturdays through Oct. 25. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

Plant and Animal Interactions — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Middletown Branch Library , 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Join Bernadette Roche, Loyola professor and ecologist as she presents on animal and plant interactions! Participants are encouraged to bring native seed to exchange or donate to the Middletown seed library. 301-600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Foundations of Frederick Walking Tour — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Experience the history and beauty of downtown as knowledgeable guides share the fascinating stories that make up historic Frederick, Maryland. Tour starts at the Museum of Frederick County History, 24 E. Church St. Reservations required. $5 to $12. 410-707-1105. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org.

Paint and Sip — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Indulge in the flavors of fall with scrumptious cookies and warm apple cider. Our instructor-led painting session will feature a cozy autumn theme, using traditional fall colors. No experience necessary. If bringing a large group, please call ahead so we can plan accordingly. Seats and supplies are limited —please arrive early. Teens and older. 301-600-6329. www.fcpl.org.

The Fool’s Journey: An Introduction to Tarot — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Middletown Branch Library , 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Learn what tarot is and what it isn’t, and the framework that makes tarot cards unique.  301-600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Death in Different Cultures — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at C. Burr Artz Library, 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Join us for this Death Series program where we will be exploring deaths in different cultures, presented by Consetta Ambrose from Hood College. 301-600-1630. espangler@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Haunted Hop: A Ghoulishly Great Dance Class! — 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Join us for a frightfully fun dance class where ghosts groove and skeletons shimmy! From Thriller to the Time Warp, Carissa Barth with FIBE Dance will show you the moves. It’s sure to be a fang-tastic good time. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Conor & the Wild Hunt: A Halloween-Themed Event — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Grab your besties or your boo (pun intended) and head to Sky Stage for a spooky evening under the stars with ghost stories, film and live music in a ca. 1762 stone building shell full of history! Conor & the Wild Hunt will set the mood with ambient spooky sounds while a ghost story tour guide tells you about hauntings in historic Frederick, followed by a musically-narrated 30-minute film about a girl discovering generations of family hauntings in their ancestral home. Then the band will kick in to a set of spooky-season-themed jams. Tickets on Eventbrite or at the door. Doors 6:30 p.m. All-ages (may be too scary for the kids). $15. skystage@ frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil. org/programs/sky-stage.

Murder & Mayhem Walking Tours — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. There’s plenty of ghost tours to be found this time of year, but ours is spooky AND true! Delve into the true crime stories that haunt the streets of Frederick. From burglaries and brawls to bootlegging and bedaubing (vandalism), Frederick’s history is full of all things macabre — and we’re here to share them with you! This tour discusses violence and crime and is recommended for visitors age 12+. Pre-registration required. $12 adults, $10 ages 60+, $8 ages up to 12. 410-707-1105. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org.

Channel Zero: Goth Darkwave Post-Punk DJ Night — 8 p.m. to 11:55 p.m. at Sandbox Brewhouse, 880 N. East St., #201, Frederick. Goth night returns! Channel Zero is a new recurring dark dance event bringing sounds and sights of goth, post-punk, ‘80s, & darkwave to Frederick. This next installment of Channel Zero is the Masquerade Ball edition. A dark dance floor just for you, awaits. braindead.live/calendar/channel-zero-1.

FAMILY

Halloween in Downtown Frederick — 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Downtown, Frederick. From 10 a.m. to noon, your favorite boutiques in downtown Frederick are hosting trick-or-treat for kids! Bring the entire family, including the pup. A practice trick-or- treating hour for children with disabilities will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. You can then bring your pumpkin pail to trick-or-treat over in Everedy Square for its Trick-or-Treat Courtyard Bash

from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Also, between noon and 5 p.m., Carroll Creek is the venue for Canines on the Creek — a hilarious and adorable dog costume contest and parade. To end the evening, watch a free Halloween movie at Carroll Creek Amphitheater. The movie, “The Addams Family 2” is the “Movie on the ‘Big Scream’” and it begins at sundown.

Read to a Dog — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Practice reading with a furry friend! This program is for children ages up to 10 with a caregiver. 301-600-7250. fcpl.org.

Magnificent Milk and Dairy Storytime with Frederick County Dairy Princess — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. All princes and princess are invited to celebrate all things dairy with a special storytime featuring Frederick County’s own Dairy Princess, Leah Spurrier! Bring your cameras and royal crowns (and attire) for great photo opportunities. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Trick or Treat Craft — noon to 2 p.m. at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Pop in to Dancing Bear after Downtown Frederick’s Trick-or-Treating festivities end and join us for a craft (while supplies last). Intended for kids ages 5+. 301-631-9300. info@dbeartoys.com. dbeartoys.com/event/trick-or-treat-craft.

Trunk N’ Treat — 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Thurmont, 7 Sunny Way, Thurmont. Decorate your trunk (no scary

scenes, please!) or just come and enjoy treats, games, puppet show.  Trophy awarded for Best Trunk. Bring a nonperishable food item for the Thurmont Food Bank. 301-471-9898. janjones0626@gmail.com. www.fbcthurmont.org.

Monster Mash — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Rock Creek Rec Center, 55B W. Frederick St., Walkersville. A ghoulishly good gathering, come dressed in your best costume for dancing and fun! Monster dance party, costume contest, Halloween-themed games, prizes and crafts. $5. 301-600-2936. fcprmarketing@ FrederickCountyMD.gov. bit.ly/FCPRAdaptiveMonsterMash. Trunk-or-Treat on the Farm — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Grand View Acres Farm, 8728 Dollyhyde Road, Union Bridge. A safe and fun “trunk-or-treat” event on the farm. Come dressed up and treat or treat by the cow pastures! Arrive early at 5 p.m. if your family is able to be a part of the trunk-or-treat and help pass out candy from your decorated trunk. There’s a playground on site, farm animals, and Grand View Acres Farm is also where you will find homemade ice cream from its very own Happy Cow Creamery. 301-676-8591.

FESTIVALS

Lucy School’s Green and Steam Day — 9 a.m. to noon at Lucy School, 9117 Frostown Road, Middletown. Join Lucy School for a special morning of nature, learning, and hands-on exploration! 9 a.m. bird walk, 10 a.m.-noon activities blending “green” with science. All ages.

201-920-0273. dan.buck@lucyschool.org. www.lucyschool.org.

Run to the Rescue 5K and Public Safety Career Expo — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. With a scenic course across the FCC campus, this race honors the public safety professionals who run, dispatch and drive to our rescue every day. With proceeds benefiting scholarship funds at FCC, this event provides support to those students who will one day be those very same professionals. Participate in-person or virtually. Family-friendly fun includes a trick-or-treat event for kids (weather permitting). Meet representatives from a wide range of public safety organizations, including state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as the fire service, military and emergency management. Register for race online. $50/$30. ebarr@frederick.edu. macemps.org/run.

Farmer ChuckBone’s Pumpkin Patch Fall Events — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Farmer ChuckBoone’s Pumpkin Patch, 6269 Ed Crone Lane, Frederick. Open weekends through Nov. 2. Pick-your-own pumpkins, hayrides, petting zoo, barrel train rides, gravel pit, pig races, nature trail, corn maze, slides, farm-related activities for kids, more.

$7. 240-220-0675. decrone@comcast.net. www.farmerchuckbone.com.

Canines on the Creek — noon to 5 p.m. at Carroll Creek Linear Park Amphitheater, Corner of Market Street and Carroll Creek, Frederick. Strut your mutt at our annual celebration of dogs in kooky get-ups. This

Halloween costume contest and parade around Carroll Creek is sure to delight kids of all ages. Exhibitors, demos, and prizes, too! All proceeds benefit Leader Dogs for the Blind and other Lions Clubs charities. Spectators are free — just bring canned dog food to donate! $25. 301-606-3012. gabennett01@ comcast.net. www.fsklions.org/canines.

Gentle Giants Fall Fest — noon to 6 p.m. at Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue, 17250 Old Frederick Road, Mount Airy. Held right on our beautiful working farm, surrounded by our magnificent draft horses! Experience the magic of fall with live music, thrilling mounted archery demonstrations, mouthwatering eats from local food & beer trucks, classic carnival-style games, and cozy hay rides through the fields. $10, ages under 5 free. 443-285-3835. events@gentlegiants.org. www.ggfallfest.com.

Fall Festival — 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Brook Hill United Methodist Church, 8946 Indian Springs Road, Frederick. Free fun and fellowship. Join us by our fire pit and picnic pavilion for a day of fall fun. Food, chili cookoff, pumpkin decorating, scarecrow making, s’mores, candy stations, games for the family. Rain or shine. Pre-register. 301-758-0356. childrens_ministry@bhumc.org. brookhill.ccbchurch.com.

History Trick-or-Treat — 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 N. Market St., Frederick. Walk through history while trick or treating at our annual event. Move throughout the property visiting costumed characters to learn more about history and trick or treat at the same time! Fun for children and adults alike! All visitors 2 and older must register and are welcome to trick or treat. $5. 301-600-2936.

fcprmarketing@FrederickCountyMD.gov. bit.ly/FCPRHistoryTrickOrTreat.

History Trick-or-Treat — 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 N. Market St., Frederick. Walk through history while trick or treating at our annual event. Move throughout the property visiting costumed characters to learn more about history and trick or treat at the same time! Fun for children and adults alike! All visitors 2 and older must register and are welcome to trick or treat. $5. 301600-2936.

fcprmarketing@FrederickCountyMD.gov. bit.ly/FCPRHistoryTrickOrTreat.

FILM

Scary Movie Night in the Park: “The Cabin in the Woods” (R) — 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at High Knob Overlook at Gambrill State Park, 8346 High Knob Road, Frederick. Attendees should bring water, bug repellent, chairs, and be prepared for terror. A group of kids go to a remote cabin in the woods where their fate is unknowingly controlled by technicians as part of a world-wide conspiracy where all horror movie clichés are revealed to be part of an elaborate sacrifice ritual. 301-835-5501. baker89james@gmail.com.

GALLERY

Berkeley Springs Studio Tour — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ice House Co-op Gallery, 138 Independence St., Berkeley Springs, W.Va. Continues Oct. 26. Self-guided driving tour in and around Berkeley Springs, W.Va., featuring 16 nationally and regionally known artists at

9 studio locations. It includes contemporary and traditional art and fine crafts in many different media. Artists will display their work for sale and demonstrate and/or describe the processes used to create their unique works. Maps will be available at the Ice House and at shops around town. For more info and a downloadable map go to BSStour.org. 304-258-9840. jjheath304@gmail.com. www.berkeleyspringsstudiotour.org.

Art in Action! Christine Merry Live Painting Demo — 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Vault of Visions Art Gallery, 1 N. Market St., Frederick. Watch art in action! Christine Merry is an award-winning oil painter based in Maryland. She had a multifaceted career that included running a graphic design business, publishing a book, and illustrating children’s stories and exhibiting her artwork widely. The rugged coastal setting has influenced her most recent work. 240-315-5483. emma@vovgallery.com. vovartgallery.com.

OUTDOORS

Green and Steam Day — 9 a.m. to noon at Lucy School, 9117 Frostown Road, Middletown. Join us for a special morning of nature, learning, and hands-on exploration!9:00 am – Presentation and Bird Walk led by the Frederick Bird Club, a Chapter of the Maryland Ornithological Society. 301-293-1163. bonnie.monnier@lucyschool.org.

Whosebumps at MET Comedy Night — 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 West Patrick Street, Frederick. Whosebumps! is a live, improvised comedic play inspired by the Goosebumps book series. This is sure to be a spooky and hilarious evening. Perfect Halloween entertainment. $15. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org.

THEATER

The Canterville Ghost — 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at ESPloft, 16 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Fully staged this year. A perfect October ghost story! Enjoy this charmingly fun Halloween story about an American family who moves into a haunted English manor —  filled with Oscar Wilde’s famous wit. Tickets are paywhat-you-can. 301-305-1405. contact@esptheatre.org.

Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery — 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. Sherlock Holmes and his crime solving partner Dr. John Watson will take to the stage to solve one of the pair’s most notorious cases, The Hound of the Baskerville this fall. However, this is a Sherlock Holmes mystery with a twist. The play’s afoot! From the award-winning mastermind of mayhem, Ken Ludwig (Lend Me a Tenor and Moon Over Buffalo), comes a fast-paced comedy about everyone’s favorite detective. Tickets vary by day. 301-662-6600. WOB@wayoffbroadway. com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“Inebriated Halloween” — 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. A hilarious and spooky journey through some of your soon-to-be favorite stories of history with the latest installment of the Inebriated series, “Inebriated Halloween.” Created by Laura Stark and Thomas Scholtes, with the technical expertise of Stephen Craig and Shayden Jamison.

For mature audiences. $25. 301-694-4744. contact@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/ inebriated-halloween.

Sunday Oct. 26 CLASSES

Presence on the Page: The Process of Nature Journaling with ThorpeWood — 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at ThorpeWood, 12805A Mink Farm Road, Thurmont. Step outside, slow down, and discover the beauty in the details of the natural world. In this hands-on program, participants will learn the basics of nature journaling — a creative practice that blends observation, writing and sketching to deepen our connection with the environment. 301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

ETCETERA

Pink Ribbon 5K — 8 a.m. to at Hood College, 601 Blazer Trail, Frederick. Join us at Hood College or virtually! Benefits the Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund. Included in the cost of your 5K registration: A well-organized and professional event, race T-shirt and the satisfaction of finishin a race! Timed live event pre-registration $35 through Aug. 31, $40 Sept. 1 through race day. Untimed live event $32 through Aug. 31, $35 Sept.1 through race day. Virtual event $35 (shirts may be shipped to virtual participants for a fee of $6). Ages under 10 free with a registered adult (shirt not included).  $35. 301-663-9252. patty@pinkribbonfrederick.org. pinkribbonfrederick.org.

Civil War Style Church Service — 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Historic Rocky Springs Chapel, 7817 Rocky Springs Road, Frederick. Attend a Civil War-style, nondenominational Christian church service. Chaplain Edward “Scott” Sturdivant will preach the sermon wearing Civil War period attire. A short living history program will follow the church service. HRSC is dedicated to using living history programs to accurately educate the public on Christian practices and the impact of faith on American society during the Civil War.  The wearing of Civil War period attire is encouraged but not required. 240-409-8361. kmcallison@verizon. net. historicrockyspringschapeland schoolhouse.org.

Historical Fashion Show: A 1776 Runway — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Fashion your thing? Then see what was the latest and greatest in Revolutionary America! Join local historical costume designer and re-enactor Barb Christie as she shares what was the latest fashion in The Thirteen Colonies at the time of the Revolutionary War.  Those of you anticipating the new November PBS Ken Burns’ series “The American Revolution” will love a live sneak peek at the era’s clothing and social history. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. www.frederickcountymd.gov.

Bowman House and Museum — 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Bowman House and Museum Museum, 323 N. Main St., Boonsboro. The 19th-century log Bowman House Museum and Pottery open to the public for tours 2-4:30 p.m. every fourth Sunday of the month

between April through October. Hearth cooking demonstrations of 18th & 19th century foods will be prepared according to the meats, vegetables and fruits that would have been available during that time. Stroll leisurely through the raised bed vegetable garden. 301-432-5889. info@boonsborohistoricalsociety.org. boonsborohistoricalsociety.org/ bowman-house.

Reducing the Threats to Maryland’s Birds — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Barb Kemerer will discuss the steps we can take to reduce the threats facing birds today and identify steps we can take on a personal, local and state level to improve the survival rate of all birds. Barb is a 40-year resident of Frederick County and a certified Maryland Master Naturalist. She is also a board member of the Maryland Ornithological Society. 18 and over. 301-600-7250. fcpl.org.

FAMILY

Trunk-or-Treat at 4D — noon to 4 p.m. at Fourth Dimension Fun Center, 4725 Arcadia Drive, Frederick. Kids, were your costume to trunk-or-treat in the parking lot. Candy, fun giveaways and a scavenger hunt. For $5, get artsy and paint a pumpkin. Or sign up for “Spooky Tag,” which is laser tag with Halloween characters, $10 per player. Other activities, too. 240-651-1060. 4dfun.com.

R.E.A.D with WAGS — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Children read to Reading Education Assistance Dogs. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Mount Scary presents Haunted CaBOOse — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mount Airy Caboose , 2 N. Main St. , Mount Airy. The Town’s beloved restored B & O Railroad Caboose Mackenzie has become haunted! Come enjoy some family-friendly thrills and chills. Baked goods will be available for purchase. Free coloring pages and pencils, courtesy of Mount Airy Children’s Dental Associates, will be given out while supplies last. $2 per person suggested donation. 301-829-1424. nhernandez@mountairymd.gov. www.mountairymd.gov.

Kindred Hills Hayride and Haunted Trail — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Kindred Hills, 8421 Ball Road, Frederick. 7-10 p.m. weekends. The madness starts with a brief hayride into the darkness, then you’ll walk along a dimly lit trail through the woods that will lead you past haunted remnants of a previous time until you find your way back to the safety of the modern day. Go to kindredhills.com for details regarding dates and times, and to purchase tickets. $30. 240-397-9825. info@ kindredhills.com. kindredhills.com.

FESTIVALS

Cow Fest — 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick. The Flying Cows is hoping to break the world record for most people collectively dressed as cows! Come dressed as a cow (preferably in a Flying Cows onesie) for this awesome family- and pet-friendly festival! There will be a helicopter candy drop, Kids’ Zone, story time by Frederick County Public Libraries, a fun run by Charm City Runs, real Highland