AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 28, 2026
Beloved Family Halloween Event Holds Its Last Gathering at Mt. Jumbo Gym
The annual Douglas Ghost Walk, a well-loved family Halloween event for over 60 years, will take place for the final time at Mt. Jumbo Gym on Saturday, October 31, from 4 to 6 p.m. This community Halloween event, organized by the Douglas 4th of July Committee, provides a festive and safe setting for families with children aged 10 and under at the historic gym located at 909 4th St.
End of an Era as Venue Closes
This year’s Douglas Ghost Walk comes with a sense of nostalgia and change, as it marks the last time the event will be hosted at Mt. Jumbo Gym. Both the gym and the old Douglas School will soon be closed and sold, following their decommissioning by the City and Borough of Juneau. For generations, these buildings have been central to the local Halloween tradition, offering families a reliable venue for celebration out of the unpredictable October weather.
Long-Running Tradition Focused on Young Children
Since around 1960, the Ghost Walk has offered families a cherished alternative to traditional trick-or-treating. Aimed at children 10 and under, the event focuses on providing a safe Halloween experience, filled with games, candy, and prizes. The format of the event ensures inclusivity and fun for even the youngest participants, making it a highlight of the season for many in the community.
Activities and Community Support
This final year, organizers are committed to upholding the spirit of the Ghost Walk. Guests can look forward to classic Halloween games, carnival activities, and both candy and non-candy treats. Custom goody bags will be assembled for toddlers and young children, with attention to dietary and age-appropriate options.
Community support remains essential to the event’s success. Candy for the ghost walk is provided by the Douglas Volunteer Fire Department, while Benjamin Gilbert DDS donates toothbrushes for attendees. The Juneau Police Department contributes reflective safety bracelets to promote safe Halloween practices, and the Juneau-Douglas High School hockey team lends its help as event volunteers.
Planning Beyond Mt. Jumbo Gym
As the gym and school close, the Douglas 4th of July Committee is already looking ahead to secure a new Halloween event venue for future Ghost Walks. While the future location is not yet determined, organizers are committed to ensuring the continuity of this local Halloween tradition and to fostering the sense of community it brings each fall.
Honoring the Community’s Involvement
The committee has expressed gratitude for the ongoing involvement of local partners, recognizing that “we couldn’t put on this event without the help from our friends.” Their collaborative effort demonstrates the lasting value of community in keeping events like the Douglas Ghost Walk thriving, even as circumstances change.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, October 31
- Time: 4–6 p.m.
- Location: Mt. Jumbo Gym, 909 4th St.
- Recommended Age: Families with children 10 and under
With the closure of Mt. Jumbo Gym, this year’s Ghost Walk will be an opportunity for local families to celebrate Halloween together and honor the end of a long-standing tradition while looking forward to its revival in future years.
Source: juneauempire.com.
