2009 Family Friendly Halloween Happenings on Long Island

A crisp nip in the morning air, farm stands are full of fresh produce; yes, it's that time of year again - time for families to get outside and enjoy all the fall festivities Long Island has to offer! With so many fun Halloween events, it's impossible to visit them all. Below is a brief list of some favorites for the younger crowd.

For many families, Hicks Nurseries in Westbury plays a pivotal role in kicking off a happy haunting season. For generations, "Otto the Ghost" has been scaring up animated fun during the annual fall festival. Activities include a haunted hay ride, a pumpkin patch, a petting zoo, and seasonal taste treats including roasted corn, candy apples, cider and so much more! Arrive early on October 4^th to witness the giant pumpkin weigh off! This season's festival kicks off on September 19^th and runs weekends through Halloween. Visit www.hicksnurseries.com for more information.

For those with little ones who crave physical fun, head over to Brightwaters Farms. This charming country oasis is one of Long Island's best kept secrets. The 30 acre farm is tucked away on Manatuck Boulevard in Bay Shore. There you'll find "A Little Farmers Playland" with giant slides, a hay tunnel, John Deere Pedal tractor races and all the quintessential fall family fun you'd expect with a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, hay rides and a fully stocked country store! Visit www.brightwatersfarms.com/fall/index.html for more information.

Long Island Children's Museum is always a crowd-pleaser, and at Halloween they really deliver with a slightly spooky Ghostly Gala. This event takes place on Saturday, October 24^th at the museum. Show off your costume, meet live animals, decorate goody bags, trick-or-treat , construct crafts and enjoy spooky music. There will also be special guests from the Bat Conservancy. Advanced tickets are available beginning September 29^th and are only $9 each. Visit http://licm.org/images/LICMOct_09.pdf for information.

The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County are proud to host a "Trick or Treat Trail" at Camp Edey in Bayport. This is one family-friendly festival that's sure to bring smiles to both boys and girls! With over a dozen activities throughout the day, including trick-or-treating, a fun maze, games, crafts, and a costume pageant every hour, the day is packed with fall fun. Best of all, this Halloween event takes place rain or shine! Admission is only $10 plus, adults are free!

For more Halloween events visit www.lihauntedhouses.com