It's finally time to give those Halloween costumes a test run at a few of our favorite spooky events this weekend, including the JP Lantern Parade, Boo at the Zoo, and Monster Mashed Up. Sing at the top of your lungs at Spongebob the Musical, the Annual A'Cappella Competition, and Can't Stop Singing That Song. Kids can geek out at the Robot Block Party and learn how they can make a difference at the Kid Convention at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute. And of course, bookworms must not miss all the fun, literary goings-on for kids and grown-ups alike at the Boston Book Festival. There will be exhibits, music, and live characters from kids' favorite books on Saturday and Sunday.

Have a family member with sensory-related challenges or autism? Check out this special performance of Blue Man Group just for them. 

There will be dancing in the streets this weekend at the Boston Local Music Festival and the Faire on the Square. Princesses and pirates are invited to spend a day at the zoo, and families are beckoned to the harbor for some fall frolicking on Peddocks Island. Art appreciaters should head to JP for their annual Open Studios or decorate special pillows in honor of Native American Day. 

If you already have costumes and candy on the brain, look to our Halloween Fun Guide for inspiration, and check our calendar and Facebook page often for even more ideas for getting out there—this weekend and all spooky season long.

With so many kid-friendly fall fests happening this weekend, parents will have a hard time narrowing down their choices. For music lovers, Roslindale is having its annual Porch Fest, and Strike Up the Bands is back in Somerville. The Boston Local Food Fest is serving up delicious local grub, and family members young and old can get inspired to move at the new Boston Social Fitness Festival. Animal fans can go on an owl prowl, practice yoga with goats, and check out a new exhibit on butterflies. Gamers won't want to miss Boston FIGFest—now at a new location.