With Halloween just around the corner, the Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve will return with its fall festival later this month.

The festival will take place on Oct. 30 from 1 to 4 p.m.

The free festival will feature an array of fun, family-oriented activities. Through the crafts and games onsite, attendees will learn about the wildlife inhabiting the preserve.

There will also be a “spooky” trail and maze for visitors to explore.

Helen Kuhns, executive director of the preserve’s foundation, said the trail is catered to younger kids.

“Adults and older kids have tons of stuff to go to that may be too spooky for the little kids,” she said.

She assured parents that the “spooky” trail is “G-rated spooky” and will be chock-full of Halloween décor and props.

The hayride will circle around Lake Ballard. There is a small donation requested for the ride, but Kuhns said bringing in canned goods for the food bank will allow guests to ride at a discounted rate.

Hot chocolate, cider and popcorn will also be served.

Additionally, several community and non-profit organizations will be in attendance and discuss their current projects.

Kuhns said last year’s fall festival attracted more than 400 children and parents.

“Last year, the word got out,” she said. “It was the biggest event we have ever had at the park.”

She believes there will be a strong showing at this year’s festival as well.

“Everyone who came had a good time,” Kuhns said. “Fall is a nice time to spend outside.”

The preserve encourages guests to wear Halloween costumes. However, it requests no masks.

For more information, visit www.hofflercreek.org.