What did the Slytherin wear to run a 5k? We don't know—we haven't raced yet. Bad jokes aside, this unsanctioned-Harry-Potter-themed fun run welcomes costumed muggles of all ability levels, including kids (under 16 are free), dogs, and babes in strollers. 

At night, a trio of haunted houses and darkened rides take things into spine-tingling territory. By day, though, the theme park's tamer rides and family-focused Booville provide more delights than scares. Kiddos in full Halloween garb can participate in the weekend costume contests at 3pm, while trick-or-treating, a hay maze, and arts and crafts keep spirits high between rides on the Frog Hopper.

It's pets and people on adorable parade through Volunteer Park, ending with a costume competition and prizes awarded in categories like Spookiest Pet and Best Pet/Owner Combo.   

Before the children run amok, gather your little witches and wizards for an afternoon of high (spirited) tea. Witches' brew will be on hand, of course, as will special severed finger foods like macarons, cupcakes, and prosciutto, brie, and apple sandwiches. 

Kids can meet Northwest Trek's roster of nocturnal creatures, follow decorated animal paths to trick-or-treat stations, and play games in their disguise of choice. Consider this a way to embrace the season without making it all about the candy.

Dress up your little ghouls and wander the grounds of Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium to participate in themed games and watch the animals gorging on gourds. And, yes, the underwater pumpkin carving demonstration returns because knives and oxygen tanks are always a good combination.

Kids get kitted out with snacks and a pumpkin to paint, while grown-ups can sip nonalcoholic beverages and play games in relative (because let's be real) peace. A costume contest adds extra incentive to dress the part.

The Phinney Neighborhood Association returns with its for-purpose daytime trick-or-treat event. Costumed kiddos can wander the stretch of businesses along Phinney and Greenwood Avenues (between 65th and 85th is generally the most bustling) to get candy, while collection boxes accept donations of nonperishable goods for FamilyWorks and the PNA's hot meal program.

Daytime trunk-or-treating meets fall festival in Auburn, complete with inflatables, food trucks, games, crafts, and music. This event is targeted toward families with children ages 2–10; canned food donations are encouraged for Auburn Food Bank.

Who doesn't love a low-stakes mystery? The week of October 23, download a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt map and find those clues throughout downtown Renton. On October 28, come in your Halloween-y best to enjoy live music and a pet costume contest, and to submit your completed map in exchange for a goodie bag reward.