REXBURG—Hemming Village will bring a little magic to Rexburg on Friday as its annual Hocus Pocus event returns with a wizarding theme.
“We’ll have spells. We’ll have floating pumpkins and floating candles, and so I’m really excited about the ambiance that you can expect for the Harry Potter theme,” said event organizer Cami Wills.
Organizer Cami Hemming Wills, yes, Hemming, said she and her siblings started the Halloween tradition nearly 20 years ago because of their family’s love for the holidays and the community. What began with about 800 to 900 visitors has grown to draw an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 people during the three-hour event.
This year’s celebration will feature Harry Potter-inspired characters and decorations. Staff members will dress as familiar characters while keeping the atmosphere welcoming for families with young children.
A train provided by the police department and its D.A.R.E. program will become the Hogwarts Express, offering free rides. Visitors can also try a basketball hoop attraction, enjoy music from a DJ and explore games and activities hosted by Hemming Village’s retail tenants.
Another returning attraction will give guests an opportunity to see and hold live spiders, snakes and other critters with assistance from handlers. Wills said the display, organized by Julie Parkinson, consistently draws curious children and families.
“We just hope people will come and support and be excited and happy and go with a lot of candy and just have a good night, because Halloween can be a little bit crazy,” Wills said.
Planning for this year’s celebration began in February. About 20 staff members are helping with decorations, costumes and other preparations, while sponsors provide financial support to keep the event free.
Food vendors will offer meals for purchase, and retail businesses will remain open into the evening. Beyond the Halloween activities, Wills hopes visitors will discover the businesses in Hemming Village and feel her family’s appreciation for Rexburg.
“So, this is something that we can do to give back to the community,” Wills said.
The celebration will take place along the street between First West and Second West, across from Café Rio, near the Cedars Heights buildings and Deseret Book. The event area will be closed to traffic. Parking will be available around the park, behind Hemming Village and in its parking garage.
Hemming Village’s annual Hocus Pocus event will take place Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., featuring trick-or-treating, carnival games, characters in costume and activities for visitors of all ages. Visitors are welcome to dress up and stop by anytime during the event.