NORWAY – The Cat in the Hat, Samantha the Skunk, Baxter, Belle, ghosts and goblins, and more will be roaming the streets of downtown Norway on Friday as children and adults gather for the annual Halloween Festival.

The event takes place from 2 to 5 p.m. beginning at the Norway Memorial Library on Main Street. Last year, more than 600 people walked Main Street for the event, many dressed in costumes.

“They’re all doing neat things,” Recreation Department Director Deb Partridge said of the 30 or so businesses that have already signed up to participate in the trick or treat and scavenger hunt that has become a tradition at Halloween each year. Participants will enjoy music, dance, games, ghost stories, crafts and treats as they begin their journey down Main Street.

The adventure will begin at the Norway Memorial Library where there will be crafts, witches brew and goblin treats, and a scavenger hunt for those age 10 and up.

“It’s always hectic. It’s always fun,” library Director Ann Siekman said.

Siekman said Dorene Vail of the Rowe Elementary School in Norway will be reading ghost stories from 4 to 4:30 p.m. where trick or treat scavenger hunt sheets can be picked up along with healthy snacks and a chance to make Halloween crafts. Coupons will also be handed out from Pizza Hut and glow dog tags from Modern Woodmen of America.

The new dance studio Toe, Tappin and Jazz will be performing on the corner next to the library, where 3-foot-high Halloween figures are planted.

Last year, when there was a coincidental half-day at school, Siekman said the library alone drew some 450 to 500 people. This year, officials say the eventwide turnout might not be as large because school is in session.

Music will be provided by the No Name Banjo Band at the Weary Club and a gruesome ghoulie guessing game will be available at the town’s kiosk.

Partridge said the Fire Department will have an open house with fire prevention demonstrations, the smoke trailer and a chance to meet Sparky and McGruff from 2 to 8 p.m.

The Second Congregational Church at Main and Paris streets will have a UNICEF party and haunted house from 5 to 7 p.m. Game tickets are three for $1. Refreshments will be served for a nominal fee.

At Norway Rehabilitation and Living Center on Marion Avenue, children ages 11 and under are invited to trick or treat at the haunted house and haunted graveyard from 6 to 7 p.m. At the Responsible Pet Care and Pawsibilities Thrift Shop on Waterford Road, people who bring a treat for cats will get a treat back from noon to 9 p.m.

The events are open to the public regardless of residency. For more information, contact Partridge at 743-6651 or [email protected].