1 of 7

NILES — The rain was relentless from early afternoon onward Saturday, Oct. 26, but so, too, was the flow of candy and activities in Niles.

From 2 to 4 p.m., 229 children, newborn to 12 years old, and their families registered for Niles District Library’s costume contest. It was hosted at Niles-Buchanan YMCA’s Fall Festival, which featured Halloween-themed activities, an inflatable bounce house and slides and healthy snacks in its gymnasium.

Fall Festival coincided with Niles Elk’s Lodge Trunk-or-Treat next door to the YMCA. Hayrides were provided between the locations, located at 905 N. Front St. and 1322 Canal St.

The events were followed by Downtown Safe Trick-or-Treat from 4 to 5 p.m. in downtown Niles. Attendees, often wearing coats underneath costumes and carrying umbrellas overtop, went from area merchant to area merchant, receiving candy and other free treats.

Niles will officially celebrate Halloween from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31.

ABOVE RIGHT: Mary Eccles and Owen, dressed as a dragon, pose for a picture while attending Niles-Buchanan YMCA’s Fall Festival. (Leader photos/BEAU BROCKETT JR.)

More News

Buchanan City Commission narrows city manager search

Cassopolis school board discusses 2025 bond proposal

$1.5 million in cocaine seized in Berrien County drug bust

Small Business Saturday returns to downtown Niles Nov. 30