There are a number of Halloween events on tap in Manteca.

They range from a “Monster Mash” party on Maple Avenue Thursday to a citywide decorating contest.

‘Monster Mash’ Oct. 27

The Monster Mash in downtown Manteca is taking place on Thursday, Oct. 17, starting at 6 p.m. in the 100 block of Maple Avenue.

It will feature Halloween costume contests for families and pets.

The evening will include live music, food trucks, vendors, plus a beer and wine garden.

There will be goodie bags for both kids and pets as well as tricks and treats.

The Manteca Recreation & Community Services division has also arranged for costumed characters to be on hand for meet and greets.

‘Night at the Museum’ Oct. 26

Manteca will once again have a “Night at the Museum.”

The third annual Halloween event hosted by the Manteca Museum and Historical Society will take place on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the parking lot of the museum, 600 W. Yosemite Ave.

Included will be all types of Halloween themed games such as “Find the Eyeball,” “Ring the Witch’s Hat,” “Bone Bag Toss,” and others geared for children.

Let’s not forget about the “Pumpkin Walk,” which is one popular games of the past few years. The game is played with children walking in a circular path that is numbered,
 The Manteca Museum and Historical Society will be having its third annual "Night at the Museum" Halloween Event on Saturday, October 26th from 3 to 5 pm in the Parking Lot of the Museum at 600 W. Yosemite Ave.

 All types of Halloween themed games like "Find the Eyeball", "Ring the Witch's Hat", "Bone Bag Toss" and many others will be available for the children to play.

 One of the most popular games in the past years is the "Pumpkin Walk." Children walk in a circular path that is numbered.  When the music stops, children are on a number and if their number is called they get to choose an elaborately decorated pumpkin to take home for Halloween as their prize.

Children must be accompanied by a parent, grandparent or guardian.  Recommended ages are from 2 to 12 years of age.  Popcorn will be free throughout the afternoon. A hot dog meal, including a hot dog, bag of chips and a drink, will be available for purchase for $3.

Prizes and candy will be given out for those who participate in the games and events.

Museum President, David Nefouse, hopes "Night at the Museum" will bring young families, new to our community, to participate and enjoy the day with Museum volunteers.  The Museum will also be open during the event, with docents giving tours if desired. Should you have any questions regarding "Night at the Museum" you may contact Museum President, David Nefouse, at (650) 521-7119.

Trunk or Treat oct. 26

The Manteca Recreation & Community Services is also hosting a Trunk of Treat on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to noon.

It will take place downtown on Maple and Yosemite avenues.

The event will also feature food trucks, vendors, live music, a car show, as well as character meet and greet in addition to trick or treat from trunks and booths offered by various businesses and organizations.

For more information or to register your business/organization to pass out candy, email tmuschott@manteca.gov

Halloween decorating contest

The Manteca Recreation & Community Services citywide Halloween decorating contest registration is now open and closes Oct. 23.

Categories will include scariest, most creative, best haunted house, classic Halloween, and judges’ choice.

There is no fee to enter.

Participants must reside within the city limits.

To register call 209-456-8600 or email: tmuschott@manteca.gov to register.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com