Downtown Sandusky dresses up as the ‘Halloween Capital of Ohio’ ahead of Witches Walk

Downtown Sandusky is getting a Halloween makeover, with more than 150 light poles wrapped in corn stalks and more decorations still going up.

The Greater Sandusky Partnership organized the project with the city of Sandusky, whose greenhouse staff are among those doing the work. The city said a "big reveal" is planned this weekend. The project is sponsored by the Sandusky Witches Walk and The Emporium at West Market Street.

The decorations are part of a push to brand Sandusky as the "Halloween Capital of Ohio," a title both the city and Witches Walk organizers are using.

Witches Walk turns 15

The Sandusky Witches Walk, a nonprofit fundraiser in its 15th year, is running events all month for the first time. The main event is from 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, at Jackson Street Pier.

Organizers have announced:

• The Witches Walk and community parade
• An opening ceremony and a Guinness World Records dance attempt
• A Broadway-style musical and a Stevie Nicks tribute show
• Costume contests and an Enchanted Market for VIP ticket holders
• Drink specials at downtown restaurants and bars
• A passport stamp raffle with $5,000 in prizes

A ticket is required to march in the parade, join the dance and enter the raffle, according to the event website. VIP tickets cost $45 plus a service fee and cover events all month. Organizers say prices go up on event night.

The event says net proceeds go to local programs for young people and seniors, including the Kiwanis Club, Meals on Wheels and efforts to raise high school graduation rates.

Organizers say the walk has drawn more than 15,000 people downtown in past years. Their schedule for the rest of October is still being filled in.

Sources: City of Sandusky on Facebook; Sandusky Witches Walk