Library to host free Halloween programs: pumpkins, costumes, linocut, movie & more

Browse all of the Harvest and Halloween events at www.mysaline.com/october/.

The Saline County Library has unveiled its schedule of Halloween events for October 2026, offering free family-friendly activities across its branches in Benton and Bryant, as well as a community movie night at Mills Park.

Highlights of the seasonal lineup include the return of the popular Costume Closet, a pumpkin decorating contest, Trunk-or-Treat, folklore presentations, storytimes, and workshops. Read the list below.

👻 The festivities begin Thursday, Oct. 1, at 9:00 a.m. with the opening of the library’s annual Costume Closet across all branches. Costumes for all ages—including adults and pets—will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one costume per person. Costumes are free to keep and do not require returns, though borrowers are asked to leave hangers at the front desk. The Costume Closet will run through Nov. 1.

🎃 Also starting Oct. 1 is the library’s Pumpkin Decorating Contest. The library will supply pumpkins at all branches (limit two per family while supplies last), or participants can bring their own to decorate using provided craft supplies. Entries will be accepted Oct. 1–7, with public voting taking place Oct. 8–24. Winners will be announced Monday, Oct. 26.

Additional featured events on the schedule include:

🎬 Movie in the Park (Halloweentown): Saturday, Oct. 17, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Mills Park. The outdoor screening of “Halloweentown” (Rated PG) begins around 7:40 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Limited snacks will be available. In the event of bad weather, the movie will be canceled.

🍬 Trunk or Treat: Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Benton branch parking lot. Celebrating the Saline Reads book choice, “Always, Clementine,” this year’s event features mouse-themed costumes, activities, yard games, and candy distribution.

🫈 Legends of the Arkansas Backwoods: Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Benton branch. Local comic book author and illustrator Gustav Carlson, creator of “Backwood Folk,” will present on Arkansas cryptids and folklore while drawing live illustrations.

📖 (Not So) Spooky Storytime: Friday, Oct. 30, at 10:30 a.m. at the Benton branch. Designed for children ages 5 and under, Youth Services Programmer Ms. Dana will lead stories, songs, dances, and crafts. Costumes are encouraged, and candy will be served at the Youth Services desk.

🔪 Spooky Linocut Workshop: Saturday, Oct. 31, at 10:00 a.m. at the Bryant branch. Beginners can learn the basics of linocut printmaking and create custom prints. All supplies are provided.

Browse all of the Harvest and Halloween events at www.mysaline.com/october/.