The Buffalo Bill Center of the West throws its annual family-friendly Halloween celebration, Hootin’ Howlin’ Halloween, on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 2-5 p.m.

Luke Deurmier, interpretive specialist in the center’s Interpretive Education Department and coordinator of the event, says, “Come dressed as your favorite spooky character and find yourself on a ‘Phantom Frontier.’”

The Center of the West’s family-oriented events always include fun and hands-on activities for children and their families to enjoy. Attendees will find an exciting array of activities to do together. They’ll learn about carnivorous plants, listen to scary stories — and may even encounter some phantom animals walking on their own.

Activities take place throughout the Draper Natural History Museum, with stops along the way for trick or treating.

A popular part of Hootin’ Howlin’ Halloween is judging the annual pumpkin carving contest. These jack-o’-lanterns, carved by some of the artsy members of the Center of the West’s own staff, range from scary to humorous to beautiful. All attendees are invited to vote for their favorite jack-o’-lantern during the event.

The Phantom Frontier Hootin’ Howlin’ Halloween Family Fun Day is $5 per child or $15 per family — whichever is less — and free for Buffalo Bill Center of the West members. The event is made possible through support from the R. Harold Burton Foundation.

For more information on this Halloween Family Fun Day, contact Deurmier at luked@centerofthewest.org or 307-578-4005. For details on all Center of the West events coming up, visit centerofthewest.org/events.