by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
It really felt like October on a recent chilly Saturday morning, which was perfect for Walpole’s annual Halloween on Main, a trick-or-treating event that was followed by Falloween, the town’s fall party. Though chilly, it was also beautiful: wall-to-wall sunshine really made the foliage pop - a lovely backdrop for the festivities.
Halloween on Main is believed to have originated in 1994 as an exciting pre-Halloween trick-or-treat option. This also supported the downtown area by getting people to walk it and explore the shop offerings on foot rather than the usual quick drive-by. Judging by the growing crowd, the event has only become more popular over the years.
As trick-or-treating wrapped up, groups gathered back on Stone Field. The area had been transformed into an exciting autumn fete featuring a variety of fall-themed inflatables, music, face painting, and balloon twisting. Hundreds of locals of all ages joined in the celebration. It was a great way to spend such a gorgeous late October afternoon.
Now in its third year, Falloween is a reimagining of Harvest Fest, the former fall celebration. “We hope to build off of the theme each year,” Assistant Recreation Department Director Lauren Antonetti had explained to us after the inaugural event back in 2023. “We are excited to see what works and what doesn’t, growing the event into something the community can really look forward to.” The department’s hard work is clearly paying off, as Stone Field was packed this year.
It’s possible that the continuation of these beloved annual activities and the memories made at them are part of what makes Walpole such a special place to live. We look forward to seeing what next year brings!
