This year I was really busy during October. I wasn’t able to plan a Halloween party. It’s too bad, because I love having Halloween parties.
Here are some photos from a couple of years ago.



Anyway, I’m not having a party tonight or tomorrow. But tonight we visited a special Halloween event that our city has.



Lots of little kids and a few adults go to this event in costume. The volunteers who work there have fun, and my money is given to charity. I really enjoy going there every year.
I hope you have a great Halloween, or a great October 31st if you aren’t interested in Halloween!
P. S. Enter the contest! It’s so easy–just share your ideas with us! Only 2 people have entered so far…your chances are good!
Carve (v.): to make an object or shape by cutting a piece of wood or stone (usually). However, it’s also the special verb that we use for making jack-o’-lanterns. (Ex. “My grandfather carved this wooden toy.”)
Favor (n.): a small gift given to guests at a wedding banquet, birthday party, etc. (“party favor,” etc.). (Ex. “I’ve heard that in Taiwan and Japan, the wedding favors are really nice.”)
Local (adj., also n.): related to where you live or the area you are talking about. (Ex. “The local bookstore is really good. I never have to leave my neighborhood to buy books.”)
In costume (phrase): Americans usually don’t say “fancy dress.” (That’s British English.) We say “I’m going in costume”/”I’m going in costume as Superman” or “I’m wearing a costume”/”I’m wearing a black cat costume.” If everyone already knows you’re talking about costumes, you can use “go as”: “I’m going as a mermaid.”
Charity (n.): a group that gives money, items, training, or other help to people who need it. (Ex. “That charity is famous for helping poor women start businesses.”)
Volunteer (n., also v.): someone who does a job without being paid, because he or she wants to (often for a charity). (Ex. “Volunteering with a local tourism office is a good way to practice English.”)
Tart (adj.): having a sharp, sour taste–some apples are more tart, and some are more sweet. I like apples that are both! (Ex. “I like frozen yogurt that still has some tart flavor in it.”)