By AMY JONES / Associate Editor

HOOVER — The city of Hoover is offering a Halloween celebration with free fun for area residents.

The second-annual Hoover Hayride and Family Night, which is free to the public, will be Oct. 30 from 6-9 p.m. at Veterans Park on Valleydale Road. Parking will be at Spain Park High School, and the Hoover trolley bus will transport people to and from the park.

Erin Colbaugh, events coordinator for the city of Hoover, said the event will offer plenty of activities for little ones.

“It’s a great night for parents to bring out their kids to the park for a night of fun,” Colbaugh said.

Hayrides will be around the large lake at the park, and Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce members will set up booths to hand out candy. Children are encouraged to dress up in costumes and bring bags to trick or treat. The city will also provide a meal for families, Colbaugh said.

“It’s another event we can add for our residents that is fun and enjoyable for the whole family,” she said. “In these economic times, it’s nice to have events to go to that are little- or no-cost.”

Colbaugh said the city expects to see 1,500-2,000 people attend the event.

Pet-A-Palooza, a free event for pet owners and their furry friends, will also be held Oct. 30 at Veterans Park. More information on Pet-A-Palooza will be released soon.