In Franklin County, Kentucky, the arrival of Halloween were often accompanied by anxieties for parents. The educational value was absent and safety concerns were presented by most families in the case of traditional trick or treating. Realizing that there was a gap, the UK Franklin County 4-H Program along with the Kentucky State 4-H Program and Kentucky State University planned a mission to tailor the Halloween celebrations into an educational opportunity through the Halloween Extravaganza.

The problem at hand was clear: that, the lack of safe and enriching Halloween activities for youth. Consequently, the organizers came up with an all-inclusive program with elements of education besides creating a safe atmosphere for the Trick or Treaters.

Aiming at the youth aged under 18, the Extravaganza attracted families living in places of Franklin County and engaged them in educational activities. Ranging from Environmental Education to Emergency Preparedness, Aquaculture, Natural Resources, and Nutrition there was a wide variety of learning opportunities. At the end of the event, each participant received an event bag which had educational materials in it, thereby making the experience both entertaining and educational.

Key to the success of the Halloween Extravaganza is the 50 hardworking adult volunteers that supported the event. These persistent efforts, as well as the cooperative contributions of the Kentucky State 4-H Program and Kentucky State University, contributed to the success of the meeting.

The influence of the Halloween Extravaganza was far-reaching. With 125 highly motivated youth participants and a great number of 784 people through indirect contacts the event had a long-lasting impact on the community. Parents said they were thankful for the education the event offered, and that it met concerns about safety and the needs for education