All Shires Eve is a Halloween Extravaganza in Houlton, Maine

Downtown Houlton will transform into a Halloween extravaganza this Friday, October 31, as All Shires Eve returns for its fourth year of fun. The community-wide celebration starts downtown at 4 p.m. and runs until late, offering something for every age - from family-friendly activities in the afternoon to lively entertainment in the evening.

All Shires Eve is hosted by the Community Impact Alliance, a local nonprofit dedicated to strengthening community connections through fun, inclusive events. The group has organized the Halloween celebration every year since its launch in 2021.

“When All Shires Eve first started, it was just a handful of people with a shared idea to bring a little more life downtown on Halloween night,” says Lilly Haggerty, a member of the Community Impact Alliance and founder of the annual event. “Over the years, it’s grown into something the whole community looks forward to.”

There will be many free events for the community this year, including a Trunk-or-Treat sponsored by local businesses and organizations. Some other activities include a Witch’s Walk, a kids’ hayride, a costume contest, a pumpkin pie-eating contest, karaoke, and a Thriller flash mob. There will also be food trucks and vendors available so folks can grab dinner and shop.

Organizers say the goal is to create a single place where families and friends can enjoy all their Halloween festivities together.

"All Shires Eve is important because it gives families a safe, welcoming place to come together right in the heart of downtown,” says Haggerty. “Having it on Halloween makes it extra special - it keeps everything in one spot where kids can trick-or-treat, enjoy the fun, and families can relax knowing it’s all community-run. It’s about creating joy and connection in a safe, family-friendly environment while celebrating a holiday that brings everyone out.”

The Community Impact Alliance will also be collecting food and monetary donations at the event, which will be donated to local food pantries serving the Houlton area.

“Events like this bring people out, get neighbors talking, and remind us all how much fun it can be to come together as a community,” says Haggerty. “It also helps highlight our local businesses and makes people want to keep showing up, getting involved, and building something special together.”

The Community Impact Alliance encourages everyone to come in costume and enjoy the downtown atmosphere as Houlton businesses and volunteers help bring Halloween to life.

The event is planned to happen rain or shine. For updates and the full schedule of events, visit the Community Impact Alliance Facebook page.