Area Geisha, Anakin Skywalker and ninja got together for a Halloween pumpkin carving at Longboat Key Club and Resort Harbourside Grille Deck on Sunday, Oct. 31. The children and their parents enjoyed lunch and some parents joined in the pumpkin carving. There was a costume contest and a pumpkin-shaped piñata.

This Weimaraner puppy got lots of love at the 12th Annual Firehouse Chili Cook-Off Sunday, where she was seen snoozing on the shoulder of her owner.

Local firehouses competed in the 12th annual Firehouse Chili Cook-Off Sunday, on Osprey Avenue.

Waldorf Sarasota held their annual Halloween Fest and Lantern Walk Sunday, Oct. 30, at Pine Shores Presbyterian.

Dog owners brought their furry canine friends out for a day of fun at Payne Park. Proceeds from the event benefit Southeastern Guide Dogs.

More than 20,000 people were expected to attend the third annual Sarasota Pumpkin Festival at the Sarasota Fairgrounds.

There were devils everywhere, and it seemed to be hell on earth at Sarasota Yacht Club's Halloween dinner and dance on Saturday, Oct. 29. There were also visits from the King and Queen, Marc Antony, Cleopatra and the Wicked Witch of the West. There was a festive fall-themed menu and entertainment by the Big Z Band.

Kids and parents got very creative Saturday, Oct. 29, during Family Mask Day at Artists on the Court.

A slight rain Oct. 28 didn't keep East County families from flocking to Lakewood Ranch Main Street for Lakewood Ranch Community Activities' annual Boo Fest celebration. Attendees enjoyed face painting, games and other family-friendly activities.