Halloween eats that go beyond sweets

Perhaps you are too old for trick-or-treating, but that doesn't mean you can't have something tasty this Halloween season. Bars and pubs will have a mix of entertainment given the weekend-friendly timing of the occasion. On Oct. 31, Frank's Community Pub in Strathcona invites you to do the Monster Mash at karaoke, enter a costume contest, and enjoy "tricks and treats" in addition to its menu of grilled cheese sandwiches, craft beer, and more. The bar could use a hand right following a costly break-in — not chill, as far as tricks go. Some bars are going bigger than others. Dolly's Cocktails near Government Station is ditching the all-pink-everything look for cobwebs, skeletons, and ghouls. Its Horror Hotel pop-up runs through Nov. 1, featuring a seasonally appropriate menu that includes an Obsession-themed shot.

Some may want to celebrate the season at an actual hotel — namely, the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. It's celebrating Día de los Muertos on Oct. 30 with a four-course dinner paired with tequila, plus welcome bites and a cocktail. The menu features al pastor pork taquitos, prawn infladitas (puffed corn snack), traditional holiday bread, a black bean tamale, mole chicken, and dark chocolate mousse. Tickets are $139. (Love mole? There's a masterclass on making it at La Morenita on Oct. 27.)

There's foodie fun to have with kids in tow, too. The Carrot Community Arts Coffee House hosts The Headless Carrot Halloween Party on Oct. 30. Eats include candy, hot dogs, and marshmallows, while activities include crafts, pumpkin carving, and a dance party. There are also ways to get out of town and support agritourism while celebrating All Hallow's Eve. Kiwi's Haunted House at Kiwi's Garden Centre & Nurseries in Acheson supports the Parkland Food Bank on Oct. 29 and 30; the Haunted Pumpkin Festival is on at Prairie Gardens in Bon Accord until Nov. 1, with a special pancake breakfast event on Oct. 31; and the Harvest Festival at Cluck & Crumble Farm in Onoway features various activities and a farm store stocked with hot and cold eats on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.