It’s ghosts and goblins time! Are you brave enough to stick your hand in a bowl of goo and grab a clue? Are you ready to hunt for bats in the trees?

Your residents will have a blast running around your community property in search for clues. The best part? All the clues will lead to the ultimate haunted treasure!

Get ready for clues like…

“Out in the dark and under a tree
Look for a graveyard skeleton key
Don't be afraid of guts and goo
For on that key is your next clue” 

This Halloween, a “haunted” community scavenger hunt is a creative and exciting way to bring everyone together.

Preparations

The key to a successful scavenger hunt is in the clues and prep. Thankfully, we’ve taken the hard work out of creating clues. Below you’ll find the easiest way to get your residents from start to finish!

This scavenger hunt requires quite a few props and preparations. Make sure you read over the full instructions which include printable and editable cards and prop ideas here.

***TIP*** Wrap the printed clue cards in plastic wrap to keep them dry. You can also place them in small zipper bags to protect them from the elements (especially if it’s damp out!)

Other props for your haunted treasure hunt

Image source: Pixabay

In addition to setting the scene with spooky props and clues, make the grand finale super exciting with a haunted treasure chest! It’s great fun to have a treasure chest full of candy at the end of the quest. Make sure you pack it full of treats for a big and tasty finish!

Depending on how many kids are participating, you may need to pass out quite a bit of “treasure” candy at the end.

You can purchase a  treasure chest if you are short on time. Or you can make one yourself using a cardboard box: follow this Instructables tutorial .

Here’s a step-by-step video tutorial as well.



***TIP*** Pack your treasure chest full of individual candy packs. This ensures all the greedy goblins (I mean kids) get an equal share in the treasure booty!

Here are ideas of “treasure” candy to include:

• Chocolate coins
• Candy necklaces
• Candy rings
• Other snack-pack sized Halloween treats

Include as many small packs as there are children pre-registered for the scavenger hunt. You may also want to make up enough goodie bags for latecomers or extra unregistered friends and siblings!

Remember to check out other Halloween decorating ideas and events on the blog like these easy-to-make glowing eyes, and the Smash It, Don’t Trash It, Pumpkin Smash.

With a bit of pre-planning (and some spooky decorating) your community can be transformed into the background for an exciting haunted quest!

Happy treasure hunting!