Families decked out in costumes from cute to creepy took over downtown The Dalles this Halloween afternoon, marking a festive day filled with treats, costumes, and community spirit.

So you’re basically a family of weird artists? I ask about 20 minutes into our conversation, and the pleasing look that alights on their faces means they know it’s a compliment. To be clear: my understanding of weirdness is a deeply affectionate and creative one; this might be one of the coolest and most artistic families I’ve encountered in a long time.

Celebrate Halloween with a day dedicated to creepy crawly bugs and bats on Saturday, October 30th from 10 am to 3 pm at Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Pacific Northwest entomologist Maggie Freeman will be providing lots of fun educational materials including a bug collection of large native moths, butterflies, beetles, cicadas, bumblebees, grasshoppers, dragonflies and LIVE Madagascar hissing cockroaches.

Looks like someone has been waiting a long time at 1629 E. 13th Street. Well, don’t worry your cold bones about it. Halloween is just 33 days away, as yards are already speaking to our mortality and inner goblins. Jayme Reineccius put up this display recently as the entire neighborhood gets into the spirit of spirits.

This display at 4000 Brown’s Creek Road brings a bit of a smile even if it hints at our mortality this morning, Friday, Oct. 30. That’s even more reason to seize the moment. With just a day to go before Halloween locals are dressing up.

Calling all ghosts, goblins, and gremlins, Halloween is just around the corner, and it's your time to shine. On the corner of E 8th and H St. in The Dalles a ninja turtle doll and metal robot are seen frolicking in the yard of spook! Do you have any Halloween themed decorations or costumes plans that will out-do your neighbor? Want a little friendly competition?