October marks Isla Vista Recreation and Park District’s (IVRPD) 50th anniversary as an independent special park district, and to commemorate the occasion, IVRPD will be hosting the return of its Haunted Pumpkin Patch in creative partnership with Lucidity.

IVRPD looks to build upon the popularity of last year’s Halloween event by bringing the Haunted Pumpkin Patch into Anisq’Oyo’ Park in downtown Isla Vista for three nights, 7-11 p.m. Saturday Oct. 29 through Monday Oct. 31.

The outdoor event will feature a theatrical experience with live-action storytellers, film screenings, carnival games and activities, two silent disco nights, a Ferris Wheel, Día de Los Muertos altars, costume contest, and a live “Thriller” flash mob performance by World Dance for Humanity.

“Congratulations to the Isla Vista Recreation and Park District on their 50th anniversary,” said 2nd District Supervisor Gregg Hart. “I am proud to have the IVRPD in Santa Barbara County’s 2nd District. I have witnessed the positive change it makes every day in the lives of Isla Vista residents, and I’m proud to work beside this institution for the benefit of the community.”

“The district was thrilled when we learned that its 50th anniversary would coincide with Halloween because it gave us an opportunity to shape traditional elements of Halloween into a more cross-cultural experience that celebrates the diverse history of Isla Vista,” said Kimberly Kiefer,  IVRPD general manager.

“We are grateful to be working once again with our creative partners at Lucidity and the Environment Makers. We hope everyone can join us for this exciting community event,” she said.

“Lucidity simply loves working with the IVRPD and appreciate the way they show up as humble guardians of open spaces for the benefit of all Isla Vista community members,” said Jonah Gabriel Haas, Lucidity marketing director and co-founder. “We endeavor to support them in their good work by producing, inclusive, participatory, artful experiences for people to play, grow, and dream together,”

“IVCRC is stoked to support IVRPD in creating lasting memories with kids, family, and students alike on a Halloween evening. Events like these affirm that, no matter the years in your body, there will remain in everybody a child — a child with a bottomless well of creativity and compassion,” said Yiu-On Li, Isla Vista community relations committee internal chair and event sponsor,

The event is free admission and open to all ages in Anisq’Oyo’ Park, 950 Embarcadero Del Mar. There are four access points: Embarcadero Del Mar at Pardall, Embarcadero del Mar at Seville, Embarcadero Del Mar at Madrid, and Embarcadero del Norte at Madrid.

Note that the event features special effects, theatrical lighting, and projection art by event partners, the Environment Makers.

The Haunted Pumpkin Patch is first-come, first-served, and free pumpkins will be provided while supplies last. Drugs, weapons, and alcohol are prohibited, and no smoking or vaping. Guests are urged to access the park via bicycle, SB Metro lines 11, 24x, 27, or other means of alternative transportation.

For ADA accommodations, dial 805-350-8751. Direct questions or comments to Nicholas A. Norman, nnorman@ivparks.org.