CASSOPOLIS — Just across from the historic Cass County Courthouse is Turtle Lodge, owned by Darin Boyles and Boyles Properties. Inside the brick lodge is a large event space that can fit more than 200 people. This weekend, it will be decorated for Halloween.

Boyles has owned several rental properties in the Village of Cassopolis for several years. He uses Turtle Lodge as a way to support the community by hosting free-to-attend community potlucks, one of which is coming up from 5 to 11 p.m. this Saturday.

“I try to give back and be inclusive,” Boyles said. “It’s all self funded, and just trying to give give people something to do.”

The upcoming potluck is to help the community celebrate Halloween. Boyles will provide the tableware and drinks.

“We do ask that everyone brings a dish if they can, but it’s not required,” Boyles said. “We eat at six. At eight, there’s a band that’s going to be there playing for a while. Life Till Death is the name of the band. It’s kind of a folk rock band. Then we will be doing karaoke after that.”

In addition to the band and karaoke, there will also be a costume contest. In years’ past, Boyles said that people have dressed up as trolls, angels, ninja turtles, vampires and more.

“Some of the older ladies that lived here in town that are involved with the village have come as witches,” Boyles said. “It’s kind of a variety. I’ve had people from almost babies to up to 70 years old come, so it’s kind of all over the place.”

Depending on how many people show up, the costume contest may be broken up into various age groups. If there is less than 100 people, than he said it may be tough to get enough participants to compete in the contest. However, he said the Halloween potluck is generally one of his largest of the year, so he expects there to be plenty participants.

Winners will receive prizes, and candy will be available for the children.

There is a chance of rain on Saturday, but given the capacity of the space, there will be plenty of room inside for community members to enjoy themselves without having to worry about getting wet or cold.

Boyles intends to continue hosting other holiday-themed potlucks in the future. The next one will be at the beginning of December to help the community celebrate Christmas together. Additional potlucks will be hosted in the spring. In 2018, there was a potluck around Easter time.

Those interested in attending the Halloween potluck can show up at anytime from 5 to 11 p.m. There is no need to RSVP, and parking is available on the street.