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Not many Halloween events send trick-or-treaters home with geodes, but the Mines Museum of Earth Science’s annual Spooktacular is one of them.
The event, which is the museum’s largest outreach event of the year, opts for non-candy treats and science-based tricks each October.
On Oct. 17, hundreds of families came from near and far, wearing costumes that ranged from “Star Wars” characters to ghouls and goblins.
Each group braved the museum’s “haunted” first floor — complete with cobwebs and a spooky mine — as well as several booths and activities spread across the parking lot. There, other local museums and organizations taught children about Colorado’s rocks, fossils, animals, plants and more.
Attendees have described how the candy-free event is a nice change of pace, and also appreciated how Spooktacular blends Halloween haunts with educational opportunities.
Geode-cracking has always been a particular favorite, but other activities like face-painting and character meet-and-greets are also well-loved.
The Mines Museum of Earth Science offers free admission year-round. For more information, including museum hours and exhibits, visit mines.edu/museumofearthscience.
