OUT OF DODGE: Westfield’s AddamsFest — Creepy, Kooky, Mysterious & Spooky

You’ve read the title, and you already have the theme song humming in your head…

Well in two snaps of a finger this Halloween season, you could be in nearby Westfield celebrating AddamsFest—a three-day town-wide celebration of Charles Addams and his beloved “Family.”

Born in Westfield, NJ in 1912, Charles Addams was one of America’s greatest cartoonists. He is of course best known for The Addams Family, which eventually grew from an assortment of cartoons into TV, film and Broadway productions.

In recognition of their native son, AddamsFest transforms Westfield—with Addams Family themed events, movie screenings, art exhibits and much more, as residents and businesses work together to create a unique experience that can only be found in Westfield. The event is almost entirely volunteer run by people who love the town and want to show the world just how special Westfield is.

Starting in early October, Wicked Windows of Westfield has local retailers vying for the spookiest storefronts in town, with window displays conceived and brought to life by area artists, decorators and business owners.

Residents join in the fun with “Haunt Your House,” sponsored by Coldwell Banker Westfield East and Coldwell Banker Westfield West. Homes all across Westfield put their own artistic skills on display, with prizes for the most creative.

Speaking of artists, the Charles Addams Art Exhibit and the James Ward Mansion runs from October 22-30. The collection will feature 40 handpicked original drawings, cartoons and personal photographs. Suggested donation is $5-$10, and a portion will go towards the Charles Addams Fund which provides scholarships to Westfield High School seniors pursuing a career in the arts.

AddamsFest continues on Saturday, October 27 at Mindowaskin Park with a free event at 10:00 a.m. that includes a play zone, and adaptive needs pumpkin stroll and inflatable obstacle course. The Opening Ceremony officially starts off the festival at the Mindowaskin Gazebo at 10:30. Then stroll over to the replica Addams Family house.

Morticia’s Movies at the Rialto Theatre include screenings of The Addams Family Movie (of course) and Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Chill on Quimby & Elm will feature live music from Valencia School of Music, School of Rock and RMC Studios, dance from Westfield Ballroom and Valencia School of Music, plus phenomenal works of art from Manic Pumpkin Carvers.

On Sunday the 28th, Pugsley’s Trunk Or Treat continues the family fun, with a parade, candy and more!

***