Each year, Sunol Wilderness honors the history of humans in the area at the Sunol Heritage Festival, from Cochenyo Ohlone-speaking Taunans to homesteaders who came to the area in the 1860s. The Polka Cowboys will provide live music, and attendees can try crafts and ranch activities, and listen to Ohlone stories. A presentation for the park district’s 90th Anniversary will take place at 11:30am. The October 19 event runs 11am – 3pm. www.ebparks.org/sunol-heritage-festival
Creepy crawlies aren’t that scary! Not at Sulphur Creek’s Unhaunted House and Carnival, which is more educational than scary. Kids can learn about bugs like ants and honeybees and their role in the environment, make their own bug as a craft, play games and listen to a storytime. Kids under 12 must have a paying adult; kids under 3 are free. Carnival tickets are sold separately at the event. The event takes place at Sulphur Creek Nature Center in Hayward the evenings of Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19. Tickets are $8. Register on the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District website. www.haywardrec.org/1991/Nature-Centers
Newark’s Howl-o-ween is the chance for furry friends to show off their costumes! The event takes place on October 19 at NewBark Dog Park in Newark, and includes a vendor and resource fair, giveaways, photo booth and of course a costume contest! The event runs from 10am to 12:30pm. www.newark.org/departments/recreation-and-community-services/upcoming-events
Pacific Commons will host its annual Chalk Festival at the Block on Sunday, October 20. At the colorful celebration, professional chalk artists and attendees will decorate the sidewalks of the shopping center with chalk art—with a special Kids Chalk Zone for younger participants. There will also be balloon artists and face painting stations. In a press release Brandi Hardy, Director of Marketing for Pacific Commons, shared, “We’re excited to host another year of the Chalk Festival and look forward to seeing the sidewalks alive with color and imagination.” The event will run from 12pm to 3pm. www.pacificcommons.com
