Courtesy Photo In this photo taken by Heather Rae Photography, participants in the 2023 Falloween VIP Party enjoy early admission to the trick-or-treat trail at Dinosaur Gardens in Ossineke.

OSSINEKE — Dinosaur Gardens and Vivero Industries are thrilled to invite the community to the 6th annual Falloween, taking place on Sunday, Oct. 6. This beloved family-friendly Halloween event kicks off at 4 p.m., with gates opening for a night of spooky fun. Admission is $7 per adult, while children 16 and under attend for free. To keep things running smoothly, this year’s Falloween will be a cash-only event.

As part of the Falloween tradition, local businesses will participate on the Trick-or-Treat Trail, handing out candy to guests as they stroll through the dinosaur-themed park, transformed into a Halloween adventure. The event will also feature local food vendors and a pumpkin patch by Alpena General Store.

A fun unique setup for photos will be offered to get a beautiful image at a great price by a professional photographer.

“I am looking forward to seeing so many people from our area and surrounding areas come to this amazing event,” said Heather Shape, owner of Heather Rae Photography. “I hope people take the opportunity to get a fun memory captured with me.”

Guests can vote for Best Vendor Display/Costume Contest at the pavilion and enjoy lively Halloween music.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to connect with families,” said Shannon Vivero, owner of Vivero Industries. “We’re grateful for the overwhelming support from vendors and the community, which makes this such a special event every year.”

Before the main event, a VIP Party will take place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Limited to 100 guests, the experience includes access to the putt-putt golf course and a fossil dig, each with a festive Halloween twist. VIP guests will also have a meet-and-greet with the one and only Chompers, and early access to the Trick-or-Treat Trail at 3:30 p.m. Tickets for the VIP Party are $15 per person, with children 2 and under free. Prepayment is required, and tickets are non-refundable. VIP wristbands will be available for pick-up the day of the event.

“Families look forward to the VIP experience every year,” said Nicole Godrey of Dinosaur Gardens. “It’s a great way to kick off the fall season with a little extra fun, and the kids love the fossil dig and putt-putt with all the Halloween decorations.”

Be sure to register early for VIP tickets through Dinosaur Gardens’ Facebook page, as space is limited and tickets are selling fast.

Vendors, both returning and new, are excited to participate in the event.

“Freedom Recovery Center is proud to join the Falloween event at Dinosaur Gardens. We are so excited to see so many safe family-friendly activities happening in our community,” said Jason Beatty, owner of Freedom Recovery Center.

Samantha McMillan of Rebel Roots Hair Studio said, “The Rebels are so excited to join this spooky Falloween party! We are looking forward to seeing all the cool costumes and decorations.”

For vendor inquiries, please contact Shannon at 989-590-7603. For questions about the VIP Party, contact Nicole at 989-858-1477. For more information, visit Dinosaur Gardens Facebook page.