Several Halloween activities have already taken place in the North Coast area, with more coming on the big day, or evening, itself.

In downtown Ocean Shores on Thursday, from 3-6 p.m., it’s time for some old fashion trick-or-treating fun. Kids of all ages should visit participating local merchants that are displaying an orange pumpkin card in their window on Halloween for a spooktacular time!

NanSea Stables, just north of Ocean Shores at 255 SR 115, is open to the public Thursday 4-8 p.m. for Halloween at the Barn, with trick-or-treating, costume prizes, pumpkin bowling, bobbing for apples and more.

At the Ocean Shores Convention Center, the Ocean Shores Firefighters Association will host its 49th annual Halloween party starting at 6 p.m. Thursday. All ages are welcome for free candy, prizes, games, and more.

Highlights include the annual costume contests, beginning at 7 p.m. and broken down by age groups from infant to 12. In addition, Ocean Shores merchants and others each year provide a variety of goodies for all the trick-or-treaters.

Many civic groups have booths inside the Convention Center, which at times resembles an elaborate house of horrors or a crowded midway, with treats, games and spooky displays lining three aisles of the main room. Firefighters expect more candy will be given out than ever before. Admission is free and donations to the Ocean Shores Food Bank are always gratefully accepted.