The region is gearing up to mark Hallowe’en and Moat Brae is leading the way.
Scotland’s National Centre for Children’s Literature and Storytelling in George Street, Dumfries, is hosting The Return of Evileria.
Organisers said the spooky performance event is suitable for children aged 5+ and will be on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. There will be hour-long performances at 7pm, 8pm and 9pm, with an admission charge of £5 to £9. It is limited to groups of 30 per performance and all children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
A Moat Brae spokesperson said: “Something despicable has taken root in the Enchanted Land. Something dark, horrid and, well, weird. The books in the library won’t talk to each other, and even the pirates are afraid. Could it be that the twisted fairy Evileria stalks the halls of Moat Brae once again?
“The show can be enjoyed by newcomers and former adventurers alike, with each intrepid young audience member receiving a genuine Moat Brae certificate stating that they have been very brave and survived the show. There will also be a special Hallowe’en bar with party games in the Lost Boys Bistro.”
To prebook tickets, email tickets@peterpanmoatbrae.org.
Saturday will see the Rosefield Mills Gallery Fright Tent set up at Dumfries Town Market in the High Street, offering spooky games and free prizes for children.
They are also hosting a fancy dress competition on the Plainstanes at 1.30pm with prizes for the best boy and girl.
Annan’s Lonsdale Cinema is showing a selection of Hallowe'en films, including Hocus Pocus on Saturday and Sunday.
Owner Alan Towers said it is a chance for parents to bring their “little monsters” for a trip to the cinema to see one of the family-friendly spooky movies – and Hallowe’en fancy dress is being encouraged.
Hallowe’en films for grown-ups only include The Rocky Horror Show on Saturday, The Shining on Sunday and new movie, Hallowe’en Kills, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. See the cinema’s website or call 01461 206901 to pre-book.
Moffat Rugby Club’s Ashleigh Douglas is organising a pumpkin trail around the town and neighbouring Beattock after the successful inaugural one last Hallowe’en.
Residents are being asked to decorate their windows or gardens with Hallowe’en decorations, including pumpkins, which can be viewed from the pavement or road outside, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
A trail map is being created featuring the addresses of those who register.
