Spooktacular Pub Crawl, Business Trick-or-Treat return to the South Cape next Saturday
Those looking to enjoy some Halloween festivities can get an early jump next weekend via a pair of annual events in the South Cape.
The South Cape Hospitality and Entertainment Association’s 13th annual South Cape Spooktacular Pub Crawl takes place Saturday, Oct. 24, around varying establishments from 7 to 11 p.m.
The 21-plus event takes attendees to 14 different locations to enjoy drink and food samples, with guests encouraged to dress in their best costumes.
Of the popular event, SCHEA President David Delli Paoli said, “Halloween is such a fun time of year, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together. Between the Spooktacular Crawl and our community trick-or-treat event, there’s something for everyone. What makes these events special is seeing our local businesses, residents, and families come together to celebrate. We love creating experiences that bring people downtown, support our merchants, and make lasting memories. It’s about much more than Halloween. It’s about building a stronger, more connected community while having a great time.”
A trio of limo buses will be available to transport drink-or-treaters from bar to bar, making it easy to explore the festivities without having to drive between stops.
Paoli said seeing attendees dressed up is the best part of the event each year.
“It’s absolutely one of the highlights of the year,” he said. “People really go all out with their costumes, and every year we’re amazed by the creativity. You never know what you’re going to see walking down the street. From hilarious costumes to elaborate creations, the atmosphere is just electric. There’s something about Halloween that brings out the kid in all of us. It’s a chance to forget about the everyday stresses of life, have some laughs, and enjoy a great night with friends. And when the entire community gets into the Halloween spirit, it makes the experience even better.”
Participating locations and samples include:
• Seed and Bean — TBA
• BackStreets Sports Bar — Toasted Marshmallow, Reese’s Cups
• Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery — Green Slime Shot, Caramel Apple Pretzel Bite
• Cruiser’s Lounge — TBA
• The Dive — Devil’s Brew, Gummy Eyeballs
• Dixie Roadhouse — Caramel Apple, Snickers
• Hooked Island Grill — Frankenstein Green Punch, TBA
• Monkey Bar — Boozy Monkey Punch, Tootsie Roll
• Rack’em Spirits & Times — Midnight Margarita, Gillian’s Cigarette Chocolate Pretzel
• Paradise Pizza — Pumpkin Pie White Russian, Hot and Spooky Pizza
• Ralph’s Place — TBA, Fruit and Chocolate
• Rusty’s Raw Bar & Grill — Blood Transfusion, Twizzlers
• Tiki Hut Bar & Grill — Tipsy Pumpkin, Haunted Tiki Treats
• The Dek Bar — TBA
Of the themed drinks and appetizers, Paoli said, “It’s a huge part of the fun. Our participating establishments have the opportunity to get creative with spooky cocktails, clever names, and Halloween-inspired food. It’s not just about grabbing a drink or a bite to eat. It’s about the experience and discovering what each location has come up with. The crawl also gives people a great reason to visit different establishments, discover new favorites, and support our local hospitality businesses. It’s a win for everyone.”
Tickets are $25 in advance or $20 for designated drivers. Day-of tickets, if available, are $30.
Early check-in is from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Big John’s Plaza (near Pinch-a-Penny) or Dolphin Key Resort (under the front awning). Late check in runs 7:30 to 10 p.m. at Dolphin Key Resort (under the front awning). All ticket holders must be present with ID to receive a wristband, passport and check-in trinket.
To enter the photo booth contest, have your picture taken at the official photo booth at Dolphin Key. Photos will be uploaded to Facebook, and the public will vote.
For tickets and more information, visit southcapeentertainment.com or find the event on Eventbrite.
South Cape Business Trick-or-Treat
Bring your kids for an afternoon of fun on Saturday, Oct. 24, as they fill their bags with goodies from South Cape businesses. Each location will be handing out candy, trinkets, or one of many fantastic higher-value treats, including gift cards to some amazing local spots.
The eighth annual event runs from noon to 4 p.m., where a limo bus will safely transport children and families across Cape Coral Parkway.
“This is one of my favorite events because it’s all about the kids and the joy of Halloween,” Paoli said. “This year, we have nearly 40 participating retail business locations where children can trick-or-treat. That’s an incredible number of businesses coming together to create a special experience for local families.
“Imagine being a child, dressed in your favorite costume, going from business to business, collecting candy, meeting friendly faces, and enjoying all the excitement of Halloween. It’s like a giant community-wide Halloween adventure
“And what makes it even more meaningful is that it’s an opportunity for families to spend quality time together and create memories their children will carry with them for years. With the Santa Life Foundation involved, creating moments of childhood magic and happiness is especially close to our hearts. We believe a little magic can make a big difference in someone’s day.”
Don’t forget to visit the official photo booth located at John Michael’s Jewelry to snap a spooky picture for free with a photographer.
“For the businesses, it’s an opportunity to open their doors, welcome families, and introduce themselves to people who may never have visited before,” Paoli added. “A family might come in for a piece of candy today and return next week as a customer. But the bigger picture is the relationships we’re building. Kids get to know the friendly faces behind our storefronts, parents discover businesses they might have overlooked, and our merchants become more than just places to shop. They become part of the community’s traditions and memories. Small businesses are the heartbeat of our community, and events like this remind everyone why shopping local and supporting our neighbors matter so much. At the end of the day, we’re not just handing out candy. We’re building connections, strengthening our local economy, and creating a little Halloween magic for everyone.”
Those wanting to participate can register for free online at Eventbrite.
To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com