Halloween 5k Coming To SeaWorld Orlando

Spooky season is less than 2 months away and a Halloween 5k is coming to SeaWorld Orlando.

Halloween is a very popular holiday, so much in fact, that I have friends that started decorating right after 4th of July. For some, Halloween isn't just one day but a state of mind. And all over the state of Florida are fun Halloween-themed events and if you like to run and celebrate all things scary, you won't want to miss this fun race, Howl-O-Sprint, at SeaWorld Orlando.

If you find a calendar with various 5k's, there seems to be one to fit just about every theme. Looking at those coming up in Southwest Florida, I see one for dog rescue, breast cancer awareness, turkey trots, jingle jogs and more. And this Halloween, it'll be time to tie those laces and do some stretches to get ready for the Howl-O-Sprint 5k at Seaworld Orlando. And even better, it'll happen on Friday the 13th!

On Friday, September 13, the Howl-O-Sprint 5k will take place after the park closes during Howl-O-Scream starting at 11:50pm. Not often do we see running events starting after dark, but this will be special with the park lit up and full of after hours thrills. Because the race will be run during a big Halloween event, the race course will go through haunted parts of the park, scare zones and through roller coasters decked out in spooky decor. And after the race, the fun continues with themed treats and live entertainment. How perfect for Friday the 13th!

For more info on the Howl-O-Sprint 5k and to register, click here

If you haven't been to Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando, put that on your list this year. It was actually rated the #1 Best Theme Park Event by USA Today readers in 2023.

The number of Halloween events in Southwest Florida are too many to count. It's a fun time of the year and the kickoff to the rest of the holiday party season. If you are attending an event or throwing one, there are so many options when it comes to themes, décor and food. Almost too many. I am going to help narrow down the food part for your Halloween soirees whether they are for the adults, the kids, or both. If you are stuck, maybe you'll find some inspiration in these videos. Here five ways to boost your Halloween food game for TikTok Tuesday.

I love this crazy, creepy holiday and so does just about everyone else on social media. My TikTok feed has been full of Halloween related videos from costumes to décor and everything in between. If you have not decorated or carved your Halloween pumpkins yet, here are some great videos from last week that might help out.

All of those videos are great. However, the ones that have really been catching my eye are those dealing with food, fun appetizers, desserts and even entrees. They not only use seasonal ingredients but they also have added twists that will make your friends, family and kids say, "Cooool." I did not include the traditional "Mummy Dog" here. That is where you wrap a hot dog in strips of pastry dough to look like a mummy. I figured everyone already knows about this one.

You don't have to have a TikTok account to view the videos. Just scroll down and hit play from this post. All videos are office and kid friendly. There are some really easy ideas as well as some that take a little more effort. I've even thrown in a bonus video for parents at the end.

So this isn't acutally a pizza bite made with sweet pumpkin puree. It's a savory bite made into the shape of a pumpkin. It really is smart and creative. Not to mention it looks delicious. And you can customize the ingredients, using all of your favorites.
https://www.tiktok.com/@chefgenevieve/video/7278092989732506926?_r=1&_t=8gVLkKu07fa

There is something about eyeballs for Halloween that people love. And there is something about deviled eggs at a party. If you have any Easter Egg dye left over, pull it out for these. I've seen this done with blue food coloring for the eyes and a slice of olive in the middle for the iris. It's a little more authentic than this green. However, this gives you the idea.

These cheesy eyeballs are so versatile. You can make them and put them on a plate for a snack, add them to a cheese and charcuterie board, or do what this guy did. He made a bouquet of skewerd goodies for a Halloween gathering. It takes a little effort but the outcome looks worth it.
https://www.tiktok.com/@nikkalcaraz/video/7023058111254564102?_r=1&_t=8gVOIPlnluN

Speaking of cheese and charcuterie boards, this is how you make one for Halloween. All you need are a couple of pieces from a skeleton and a long wooden board to take it over the top. This is so easy, so cute, and so delicious. You can really get creative with this as a base. Good for any Halloween party.
https://www.tiktok.com/@foodplattermum/video/7281539798639185154?_r=1&_t=8gVNvzmMKMN

I know there are plenty of sweets to go around for Halloween. However, I have to include one dessert. Especially one that has a bit of savory and is so cool looking on your table.

Quesadias are quick, easy and kid friendly. If you struggle with getting the little ones to eat before a Halloween event, perhaps this will help.