October is a lovely month in the Belleville area. The weather is starting to cool down, the leaves are changing color, and there are lots of fun activities to enjoy in the local community. Whether you're new in town or have lived here for a while, here are a few top activities our real estate agents recommend enjoying in Belleville this October.

1. Optimist Club of Belleville Jigsaw Puzzle Contest: 1801 Central School Rd., Belleville, IL 62220
   If you enjoy jigsaw puzzles, why not put your skills to the test at the Optimist Club's Belleville Jigsaw Puzzle Contest? Held at Central Junior High School, this competition is open to all ages and awards prizes to first, second, and third-place teams.
   
   Food and drinks will be served. Each team can have a maximum of four people, and there is a fee of $20 per person to participate. The contest starts promptly at 6:00 pm on October 3rd.
   
   
2. Howlin' Hayride & Moonlight Movie: 1105 Mascoutah Ave., Belleville, IL 62220
   Held at Laderman Park on October 5th, the Howlin' Hayride & Moonlight Movie is an event for kids and adults of all ages. It begins at 5:00 pm with a hayride through Walnut Hill Cemetery. Then, a movie will be played on the big projector screen in the park.
   
   Each participant at the event receives a bag of s'more ingredients to make their own movie treat. Kids under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
   
   
3. Chili Cook-Off: Main St. and Illinois St., Belleville, IL 62220
   Stop by the Downtown Public Square on October 11th  or 12th for some delicious chili. The Chili Cook-Off will feature entries from dozens of local non-profits, small businesses, and individuals.
   
   Attendees can vote for their favorite chili for $1 per vote. Proceeds go to benefit the Community Interfaith Food Pantry.
   
   
4. Witches Brew Walk: Downtown Belleville, IL 62220
   On Thursday, October 17th, the Witches Brew Walk will take participants up and down the streets of Belleville, with stops at local shops and restaurants along the way. The event lasts from 4:00 until approximately 9:00 pm.
   
   Many participants will walk, but there is also a trolley you can ride from stop to stop. This is a great opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping and support some local businesses.
   
   
5. BAHS Howl'oWeen Pet Parade: Downtown Belleville, IL 62220
   Calling all pet lovers! On October 20th, the Belleville Area Humane Society will host their annual Howl'oWeen Pet Parade. You and your pet can sign up to walk, or you can simply show up and watch the parade. Pets and their owners will be dressed up in all sorts of silly costumes!
   
   The parade begins at 1:00 pm. After the parade, there will be a block party featuring food vendors, live music, and more. Bring your own blankets or chairs to sit on, please.
   
   
6. Crafts & Cars: 2300 West Main St., Belleville, IL 62226
   Do you love crafting and purchasing crafts like pot holders, candles, and jewelry? Maybe you're a fan of antique cars. Either way, Crafts & Cars is a fun opportunity to meet others in the community who share your passions.
   
   This event is scheduled for October 26th between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm this year. There will be refreshments available on-site, and all ages are welcome to attend.

We love Belleville for its abundance of community events. It really is a lovely place to call home. If you've been thinking of moving to the area, please contact us. Our real estate agents would love to help you find the perfect home.