Get ready for an evening of mystery, suspense and unexpected twists as Southwest Iowa Theatre Group presents Anthony Horowitz's psychological thriller, Mindgame! Directed by Sue Rogers, this gripping production will keep audiences guessing until the very end.

Performances are October 16th through 18th and 23rd through 25th at the Park Playhouse in Shenandoah, with Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $17 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for students. Recommended for mature teenage and adult audiences.

To reserve tickets, call 712-246-1061 or email switg@switg.org.

Get into the Halloween spirit with a FREE outdoor showing of Hocus Pocus on Saturday, October 24th, at 7:00 pm in the Essex School parking lot! Come dressed in your favorite Halloween costume and enjoy a fun movie night with family and friends. A food truck will also be available for refreshments. This event is sponsored by the Essex Community Club and Shenandoah Medical Center. 

Lace up your shoes and show your support for breast cancer awareness! Shenandoah Medical Center is hosting a Breast Cancer Awareness 5K on Saturday, October 24th, at 8:00 am on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail in Shenandoah. Participants will meet at the Train Depot/Sportsmans Park trailhead. No registration is required, and participation is by freewill donation, with all proceeds benefiting the Robert S. Holmes Family Cancer Center. Snacks and pink merchandise will be provided. Come walk or run for a great cause!

Get ready for a spooky adventure on the Wabash Trace! The Haunted Hayrack Ride returns Friday and Saturday, October 23rd and 24th, from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. Hop aboard for a thrilling ride filled with Halloween scares and surprises! A no-scare hour will be offered from 6:00 to 7:00 pm for those who prefer a less frightening experience.

Rides are $10 per person, with a NEW loading location this year at Little Waubonsie Park on Ferguson/Argus Road in Shenandoah. Proceeds support the Essex Junior High D.C. trip!

Get ready for a fun evening of Halloween festivities in Essex! The Essex Community Club's Annual Trunk or Treat will take place Sunday, October 25, from 4:30–6:00 p.m. in the 500 block of Iowa Avenue. Bring the kids in their favorite costumes for an evening of trick-or-treating and community fun! Free hot dogs, chips and water will be provided by the First Presbyterian Church of Essex.

Interested in sponsoring a trunk? Contact Tess at director@essexiowa.com. Please note that pets are not allowed, with the exception of service animals. Event location is pending council approval.