Sachse residents can write a scary story, hunt for hidden pictures and dress up in '90s costumes at the Sachse Public Library in October, all for free.

The library's October calendar packs more than a half-dozen Halloween-themed programs into four weeks. The headliner is the annual Scary Story Contest, which opens Monday, Oct. 5, and accepts submissions through Saturday, Oct. 17. Kids, teens and adults can enter stories of 500 words or fewer. Winners will be announced Monday, Oct. 26.

The library's programming calendar describes the contest as a returning annual tradition.

A library-wide scavenger hunt runs Monday, Oct. 12, through Oct. 17. Participants of all ages can search for hidden pictures throughout the building and claim a prize at the front desk.

The month closes with a '90s-themed Halloween Party on Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 6 to 7 p.m. The free, come-and-go event features crafts and games. The library is encouraging attendees to wear '90s-era costumes and bring candy bags.

Note: the library will close early that day at 11:30 a.m. for an employee lunch and reopen at 1 p.m.

More October events

The calendar lists several other free programs:

  • Saturday, Oct. 10, 10-11 a.m. — Baby & Me: Baby's 1st Halloween Party, for babies 0-18 months and caregivers
  • Thursday, Oct. 15, 6 p.m. — Try a Hobby: Hot Glue Watercolors, for adults and teens 14+
  • Friday, Oct. 16, 2-3 p.m. — Homeschool Hangout: Halloween Masks, for ages 4-12
  • Monday, Oct. 19, 4 p.m. — Kids Crafternoon: Día de los Muertos Lanterns, for 1st-6th graders
  • Thursday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m. — Make & Mingle: Mixed Media Pumpkins, for adults 18+
  • Saturday, Oct. 24, 2-4 p.m. — Teen Weekend: Spooky Dungeons & Dragons, for teens 14-17
  • Tuesday, Oct. 27, 10-11 a.m. — Halloween Storytime with outdoor scavenger hunt, all ages
  • Tuesday, Oct. 27, 6-7 p.m. — Book Talk: "Circe" by Madeline Miller, adults

The Sachse Public Library posted on Facebook that all October programs are free and open to all ages. Dates are subject to change; check the library's website or social media for updates.

The library is at 3815 Sachse Rd., Building C. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular storytimes return Nov. 3.