Families looking for frightfully good fun over the October half-term are invited to take part in a Halloween Scavenger Hunt across Retford town centre, followed by a special Family Fun Day on Friday 30 October.
Running from Saturday 24 October to Saturday 31 October, the spooky Scavenger Hunt Trail will invite visitors to search for Halloween objects hidden in participating shops across the town centre.
Trail sheets can be collected from any of the ten participating shops. Families who complete the trail can return their completed sheet to any of the participating businesses to be entered into a prize draw, with a range of prizes up for grabs.
A special free Family Fun Day will also be held in Retford Market Square on Friday 30 October, from 10am until 2pm. Visitors can enjoy free face painting, spooky arts and crafts activities, and meet the Ghostly Bride Stilt Walker, who will be making appearances throughout the day.
Sophie Hames, owner of Kings’ Park Antiques said: "We’re delighted to be taking part in the Halloween Scavenger Hunt. It’s a great way to bring families into the town centre, add a little seasonal mischief to the high street, and encourage everyone to shop local.
“Events like this really shine a lantern on the brilliant mix of independent businesses that make our high street a great place to be at this time of year."
The businesses that are taking part in the hunt are: Nicole Olivia, Ten Green Bottles, Kings’ Park Antiques, Retford Arts Hub, Specsavers, Bagel & Beans, Bike Pedlers, Nexo Toys, Pennington Electrical and Fulfilled Matcha Bar.
Julie Beresford, Head of Growth and Economic Prosperity at Bassetlaw District Council said: “The Halloween events are a great way to boost footfall in Retford town centre and support local businesses. The trail encourages visitors to explore a variety of shops, while the Family Fun Day provides a fun reason for families to spend time in the town.
“We're pleased to be working with local businesses to deliver activities that attract visitors and showcase Retford as a great place to shop, visit and enjoy.”
Organised by Discover Retford, the free activities offer families a fun way to explore Retford town centre during the October half-term, discover its independent shops and market traders, and enjoy everything the town has to offer. Trail sheets will also be available from Retford Market Square during the Family Fun Day on Friday 30 October.
Further information and event updates will be available on the Discover Retford website and social media channels.
Last Updated on Thursday, October 15, 2026