Long Beach is gearing up for some wholesome Halloween as El Dorado Nature Center preps to throw its third annual Howl-o-ween Festival this Saturday, October 19, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. According to a press release from the City of Long Beach, the family-focused fiesta promises a bundle of fall-themed fun, from trick-or-treating to animal edutainment, set against the verdant backdrop of this urban oasis at 7550 E. Spring St.

Mixing the eerie allure of the season with the educational aspect of the Nature Center, the city's Mayor Rex Richardson is lauding the event as a prime opportunity to knit the community closer together. "The Howl-o-ween Festival is great opportunity for our community to come together and enjoy some spooky fun at our beautiful El Dorado Nature Center," he was quoted in the press release.

Kids and parents alike can dive into a cauldron of activities—think bounce houses dubbed the Ohhh-possum Patch, face painting, and arts and crafts. And for those curious souls brave enough to meet the creatures of the night (or at least day), an animal education village will be ready to indulge. For the peckish, there'll be an array of spooky snacks, with food trucks on hand providing convenience.

While parking won't drain your wallet, a modest $5 donation is suggested to benefit Partners of Parks Friends of El Dorado Nature Center, according to Fourth District Councilman Daryl Supernaw, who seems to be visibly fired up about the event. "I’m looking forward to seeing everyone at this year’s fun Howl-o-ween Festival," he told the City of Long Beach.