By Andy Diffenderfer
Correspondent
LaFAYETTE, Ga. – The city’s annual Scare on the Square event may be designed to attract children ages 4-12, but organizers have a hidden motive for the 25th edition of the frightfest.
IF YOU GOWhat: Scare on the SquareWhen: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29Where: Downtown square, LaFayette, Ga.How much: FreeInformation: Call the LaFayette Main Street and Economic Development Department at 706-639-1519.
“It draws people to downtown,” said Catherine Edgemon, MainStreet and economic development director for the city. “It’s the biggest event in downtown all year.
“As a side benefit, we’re hoping people become more aware of what’s in their community,” including businesses and historical buildings, Edgemon said.
Thirty-five merchants and five or six civic organizations will participate in the event, sponsored by the Bank of LaFayette and the LaFayette Downtown Development Authority.
“Everybody likes it,” said George Gilbert, vice president at the Bank of LaFayette. “Parents like it because the city closes off the square, and it’s a safe place kids can go trick-or-treating. Merchants like it because they can see all these customers and make contacts.”
He estimated that about 2,300 people attended Scare on the Square last year, a number that could go up this year because a football game is scheduled the same night at LaFayette High School.
Roads will be blocked off around the square, located along Main Street downtown, so children may trick-or-treat safely at businesses. The free candy also should mean trick-or-treaters from other area communities will enjoy the festivities, organizers said.
At 6 p.m., a Halloween costume contest for children ages 12 and under will be held at the grassy lot beside LaFayette Presbyterian Church. First-, second- and third-place winners will be selected.
The LaFayette-Walker County Library, at 305 S. Duke St., will hold a book sale and special activities during Scare on the Square. The library will offer free crafts, face painting and scary stories.
Andy Diffenderfer is based in LaFayette, Ga. Contact him at andydiff97@comcast.net.