Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com


The Legend of Sleepy Howell and the Headless Horseman 5K return to downtown Howell this weekend.

The Legend of Sleepy Howell is set Saturday from 3 to 5pm and dubbed Livingston County’s largest outdoor trick-or-treating event. There’s free trick-or-treating on Clinton, Court, and Church Streets; along with Halloween and fall-themed activities including a touch a truck event.

Organizers say the longstanding community event offers a fun and safe trick-or-treating experience; and especially helps kids living in rural areas.


The Headless Horseman 5K and Monster Mile is also back and said to be “spookier than ever”.

The dusk event will be in-person and kick-off at the corner of State and Clinton Street. The Monster Mile is at 5:30pm, with the 5K at 6pm. Costumed participants will wind their way through the historic neighborhoods and through Scofield City Park and Lakeview Cemetery.

This year's race will have a rolling start with runners starting at 6pm – meaning people can start the race anytime between 6pm and 6:10pm. Organizers say that will allow for participants to be spaced out at the start of the race, along the course, and at the finish line. Walkers, strollers, assistive devices, and dogs on 6ft leashes are welcome.

The cost for the 1 Mile is $20, and $35 for the 5K. Registration is required.

There are some reminders for those who live in the area and motorists.

Flyers have been placed distributed at homes around town and the route, informing that there might be some disruptions to driving patterns between 5pm and 8pm Saturday.

People are encouraged to cheer on the runners by being outside from 6 to 7:30pm.

People are also asked to avoid driving and parking along the course if at all possible. There’s no parking on State, Thompson, and Lake Streets between 5:30 and 8pm.

Police will have barricades to stop traffic for the safety of participants. There will also be volunteers along the course to help redirect or allow vehicular traffic to proceed.

Anyone with questions can contact Howell Recreation at 517-546-0693.

More information is available in the provided links and attached flyers.