FAMILY FUN

from My Jarrell Magazine • October 2021

NEIGHBOR LEIGH

Getting in the Spirit-s

While being "ghosted" by a sweetheart is a bad thing, and those playing a spectator sport or performing on a stage have always disliked being "boo'ed, " this Halloween tradition is actually a simple demonstration of friendship and neighborly good will.

BOO!

Booing is a Halloween tradition of surprising neighbors with treats during the month leading up to the holiday. It usually begins in late September, ends Halloween night, and has been proliferating in the United States since the early 1980s. The game goes by many names, depending on location, including "Ghosting", "Spooking", and "Hobgobling."

Technology has made it much more simple to Boo someone, and social media sharing has helped to bring much more attention to the craze. The ease of printing signs and easy online sharing has helped the game become more popular and widespread in recent years.

It has even grown to the point that stores like Target and Etsy sell ready-to-go and personalized "You've Been Boo'ed" gift boxes to make it even easier to play the game.

PLAYING THE GAME

Families sneak special treats onto neighbors' or friends' porches after dark with a note attached saying "You've Been Boo'ed". That family is asked to "boo" another family or two, spreading the fun. After being boo'ed, the family is supposed to hang a ghost in their window to signify they have already been "boo'ed."

Boo-ing is also another means of allowing children and families to celebrate Halloween together. Concerns about safety, too much sugar, and unfamiliarity in new neighborhoods has led many communities to favor chaperoned parties or Griswold-style haunted houses, and Trunk-or-Treat events over the traditional October 31 door knocking.

EDITOR NOTE: For some, if Boo-ing feels like another task to add to your already-busy list, we suggest putting up a "We've been Boo'ed flyer right away. 

"Mom Tribe Jarrell" has already kicked off a "Boo" game so be sure to visit their Facebook group to get all the details and join in the fun. To join the group, simply answer a couple of questions about your family, and the admins will add you to the Tribe.

MONSTER MILE: Get dressed up, bring the family, and come walk the track at the Jarrell High School Football Field. It’s a come-and-go event October 30th from 5-8pm. Many business, organizations, and churches will have candy and other giveaways along the journey of the Monster Mile! There will be other games, food and bounce houses too.

There is still time for businesses and organizations to join the sponsor team. There is no cost to join—just scan the code to sign up to share your goodies with the crowd.

Bobbing for Pumpkins

If you're looking for something different for your "pumpkin patch" experience this year, a short drive to Leander is the answer. The Leander City Parks and Recreate Department is sponsoring a one-of-a-kind activity at the Bledsoe Pool.

OH MY GOURDNESS

If you are already missing summer, you can jump into the pool to choose your pumpkin, or stay dry and scoop one out with the nets provided by the event staff. Then the fun really starts; paint, sequins, glitter and other supplies will be provided to create a gourdgeous work of art. Scan the code to pre-register (recommended) $8.00 admission for 1 + a large pumpkin $5.00 admission for 1 + a medium pumpkin Mini pumpkins will be provided for children under 1 year old, while supplies last.

For more information, contact the Leander Parks and Recreation Department at 512-528-9909 or email landerson@leandertx.gov.