FOLEY — The Forward City is headed for some spooktacular fun this week as the Uptown Foley Halloween Party takes over downtown Foley Thursday evening — literally.

“The city closes (U.S.) Highway 98 and Orange Avenue to (Alabama) 59 at Alston (Street),” said Linda Hula of Foley Visitors Center, sponsor of the event, in a phone interview.

That will prepare the way for a Halloween party for the entire family. According to Hula, it will feature appearances by Foley Police and Fire departments and the Foley Optimist Club, as well as at least four inflatables, including a jumping house and obstacle course, as well as booths hosting a cake walk and carnival games.

“It ranges from bean-bag toss to electronic games and a fishing pond,” Hula said, “and Halloween videos will be shown.”

Booths will line the streets with lots of candy offerings for trick-or-treaters.

“It gives kids the opportunity to trick-or-treat,” Hula said.

That’s not all. Participants are encouraged to dress in costume for the event, of course. But not just for the trick-or-treating.

“There’ll be a costume contest,” Hula said, adding that Jack Williams will serve as contest master of ceremonies.

Winners of the contest, which will be located at the parking lot behind Wright’s Drug Store, will be selected in categories of two-year increments.

“From infant to 2 years, 3 to 4 and on from there,” Hula said. “Mayor Koniar will be there to hand out trophies.”

Winners will even be chosen for the 16-adult category.

“We have a king and queen selected from that age group,” Hula said.

If history is any indication, selecting winners of the contest, which begins at 6 p.m., won’t be easy.

“These judges will have a terribly tough time,” Hula said.

She explained that the Halloween Party has become a staple in the Forward City.

“It’s an annual event,” Hula said.

One that attracts quite a crowd to downtown Foley.

“Last year, we estimated it at about 2,000,” Hula said.

Admission to the Halloween Party is free. So is parking. However, Boy Scout Troop 77 will have concessions available for purchase.

The Uptown Foley Halloween Party is scheduled for 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday. For more information, call Hula at 251-943-1300.