Haunted Holiday

Halloween enthusiasts have been waiting all year, and the time has finally arrived for the haunted holiday. South Florida residents have many opportunities to celebrate at area events.

Begin with Boca Raton's Pumpkin Patch Festival, where more than 2,500 pumpkins await. The event, on Oct. 6 & 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Mizner Park Amphitheater, will include carnival rides, pumpkin decorating, entertainment and pumpkin- themed food.

"Bring the whole family and join us as we celebrate autumn," notes the venue's website.

Purchase a pumpkin, and then head for the decorating tent, where supplies will be available to create the perfect jack-o-lantern.

Boynton Beach's Haunted Pirate Fest and Mermaid Splash returns to East Ocean Avenue on Oct. 27 & 28. Visitors at the two-day event will experience pirate re-enactments, street performers, magic shows, interactive mermaid tanks, a costume contest, 11 entertainment areas, treasure hunts and interactive pirate ships.

"This family-friendly event will transform the downtown area into a bustling Old World port reminiscent of the Renaissance era," notes the website.

Finally, head to the South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beach for Fright Nights, whose website warns guests: "Ready. Set. Scream."

Four haunted houses are sure to leave you breathless, including Das Krankenhaus, where you'll meet the Angel of Death; The Mansion on Meadow Lane, occupied by zombies; Twisted Tales, where you'll descend into darkness; and The Cuckoos Nest 2, where you'll encounter a deranged woman freed from her padded prison cell.

The event, held on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from Oct. 11-27, also features "scare zones," midway rides, food vendors, street performers and live entertainment. O

For more information, visit myboca.us, bbpiratefest.com or myfrightnights.com.