Halloween Activities in Anamosa, Iowa
Halloween is a time to celebrate, a time to be scared and a time to have fun. So if you are in Anamosa, Iowa, and are wondering what to do for Halloween, know that exciting activities are just a short drive away. Anamosa has something for all ages around Halloween time. So get your costumes ready. It is time for some good old Halloween festivities! Does this Spark an idea?
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Anamosa Pumpkin Fest
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This event is the staple of Anamosa Halloween activities. Anamosa considers itself to be the pumpkin capital of Iowa, and every year a pumpkin festival and pumpkin weigh-off is held in the town. The pumpkin weigh-off is one of the most popular in the United States and draws pumpkin growers from all over the midwestern United States. The Pumpkin Fest includes the carving of pumpkins, a pumpkin recipe contest, a scarecrow contest, and various other things such as a 5K run, a beer garden, a parade and a chili cook-off. The following day also features a pumpkin pancake breakfast. This event is usually held the first or second weekend of October.
Holy Cross Cemetery
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For those looking to be spooked out around Halloween time, take a trip to Holy Cross Cemetery. This cemetery is said to be haunted and will undoubtedly provide you with the rush of fear you have been looking for. People from Anamosa claim that the lone tree sitting behind the group of trees in the cemetery was used for hangings and was a former Native American burial ground; if you truly want a scare, it is recommended to take a trip to see this ghost-ridden tree.
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Nightmare Manor Haunted House
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This haunted house is in Cedar Rapids and is roughly a 40-minute drive from Anamosa, but is worth the travel time for those looking to go to a high-quality haunted house. Nightmare Manor centers its haunted house around the story of Homeless Tom and Uncle Pete's death. Their two souls are said to haunt the manor. The price of entry was $9 for adults and $8 for children in 2010. Active military, firefighters, law enforcement and seniors also get a $1 discount.
Edinburgh Ghost Town and Museum
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The Edinburgh Ghost Town and Museum is a great place to go to around Halloween time in order to learn more about the Jones County "ghost town" near Anamosa and about other history concerning Anamosa and the greater Jones County. This museum offers a wide variety of events from folk festivals to civil war reenactments. It is especially interesting to go on a group tour there during the Halloween season. Be sure to call in advance as the place is usually only open on Sundays. Admission is free but donations are accepted.
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