A pumpkin carving contest, haunted house, food court and costume contest have been added to the City of Andalusia’s 15th annual Halloween festivities.

During the annual Halloween on the Square event, which will be held from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. on Fri., Oct. 31, city officials will host a pumpkin carving and costume contest, something that hasn’t been done in recent years.

Both contests are free to enter and will offer cash prizes for both youth and adult age divisions.

Sign up for the contests will be from 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Pre-carved pumpkins are to be dropped off at the court square for judging, and costume contest participants will have to wear a number throughout the night.

“We’re trying to add a couple new things to the event,” Caitlin Shipman, youth sports coordinator, said. “We hope that we have a good turnout and good participation.”

The winners will be determined by votes from the public. The votes cost 25 cents each and the money raised will be donated to the Andalusia Area Humane Society, Shipman said.

Officials ask that costumes be kid friendly and suitable for public viewing.

Also new to the city’s Halloween festivities is “Nightmare at the Market,” a haunted house held at the farmer’s market.

The haunted house will be open from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and admission will be $5, with proceeds benefiting Relay-For-Life.

“We wanted something different for our Relay-For-Life fundraiser,” Tanya Williams, finance officer for City Hall, said. “We’re hoping there will be a crowd.”

The city will offer a free hayride in conjunction with “Halloween on the Square” and will make a stop at “Nightmare at the Market.”

Additionally, local merchants will be stationed on the Square to hand out candy, and live music will be playing until 9 p.m. by local band, Ask Alice.

There will also be a food court available on the square with local restaurants Samurai, Pizza Hut and 2 Guys Pies participating.

“Right now we have some local vendors who have signed up,” Shipman said. “Andalusia High School Band is going to be doing funnel cakes and deep fried food. We have a cotton candy and Italian ice vendor as well.”

If interested in becoming a vendor, contact Shipman at 334-428-2106.