by Rachel Hunter
Laughter echoed through the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center on Friday, October 17, as costumed youths and their families poured in for the Gouverneur Recreation Department’s 30th Annual Community Costume Spooktacular. The event was a celebration of imagination, community togetherness, and the joy of giving back.
The Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center had been transformed into a Halloween wonderland, with witches, ghosts, and ghouls setting the scene for an evening of festive fun. Gouverneur Recreation Director Casey Canell greeted children with a playful “evil laugh,” while Head Recreation Attendant Michelle Prashaw and a team of dedicated volunteers welcomed families with smiles and helping hands. Town Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr., Code Enforcement Officer Rick Wood, and Lisa Wood of the Community Center also joined in, showing their support for the youth of Gouverneur. It is estimated that there were over 125 persons in attendance.
Children reveled in the Halloween magic with a lively costume parade, a playful contest full of creative flair, and a high-energy dance party made possible by DJ Brandon Griffin. Carnival games added to the excitement, keeping little hands busy and big smiles glowing all night long. Children were delighted to receive festive Halloween toys and décor, gifted as tokens of appreciation for their spirited participation. Slices of warm pizza added to the celebration, served as a tasty thank-you to every young ghoul and goblin who joined the fun.
The Spooktacular was more than costumes and candy—it was a celebration of community spirit. Volunteers generously gave their time, local leaders joined in with support, and families gathered to create lasting memories. Many attendees expressed heartfelt appreciation for the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center as a warm and welcoming space, and the buzz is already building for the Gouverneur Recreation Department’s 31st Annual Community Costume Spooktacular in 2026.
For more information about upcoming events with the Gouverneur Recreation Department, call 315-287-0524.