The annual “Halloween Party,” a free event at Harwood Heights Village Hall presented in partnership with the Harwood Heights Youth Commission and the village, attracted approximately 70 people on Oct. 26 to the Harwood Heights Recreation Center.
“I give the Youth Commission members a lot of credit. They put together and do all the work, they run around and get all the goodies, they decorate, said mayor Arlene Jezierny, adding that the commission works “to make our village look good.”
Children’s activities included arts and crafts, coloring and costume contests, a parade and more. Halloween costumes of all types featured traditional themes – such as witches – and such popular as the bright yellow Minions or red and blue Spider-Man.
Jezierny wore a festive sweater in an orange Halloween color for the Saturday afternoon party.
“They’re here to enjoy the holidays, show off their fun costumes, and it’s all about building camaraderie, having kids meet other kids in the community, and parents,” Jezierny said about participants. “We enjoy this one.”
Joe and Christine Napolitano, of Harwood Heights, attended with their children Lorenzo, 4, Gianna, 6, and Luciano, 9.
Joe Napolitano hoped his children would “create memories” and experience “good family time.”
Zaina Suleiman, 2, of Norridge, attended with her mother Bayan Suleiman. The young girl was dressed as a witch, wearing a black tulle dress and witch hat headband with purple detailing.
“She’s been practicing her witch laugh for days,” Bayan Suleiman said with a smile.
Dentist Tara Culligan, of Dental Care Professionals of Harwood Heights, staffed a table with giveaways, including pencils, toothbrushes and, of course, candy. She also promoted good oral hygiene.
“We’re here to be just part of the fun,” Culligan said. “Having a lot of candy one day is not a big deal, it’s the repeated exposure to candy over and over and over that’s not great. But, certainly having fun on Halloween with candy is acceptable.”
Karie Angell Luc is a freelancer.
