In between paychecks? Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Look no further. Starting today, VoxTalk will blog every Friday about free (and cheap) things to do over the weekend.

This weekend, it’s all about Halloween:

• The District’s Halloweenie: This event is perfect for families with young children. On Friday, from 4 to 6 p.m., over 50 businesses in downtown Columbia will be passing out treats to costumed kiddies. A mini-pumpkin scavenger hunt will also be held.
• Fall Harvest Festival at the Root Cellar:  If you missed Halloweenie (or don’t have young kids), stop by the Root Cellar between 4 and 8 p.m. on Friday. This grocery store will be sampling local food and sponsoring seasonal crafts, such as pumpkin carving.
• Haunted Museum Tour: Stop by Mizzou’s Museum of Art and Archaeology for some arts and crafts and spooky fun.

There are tons more Halloween events to choose from in Columbia. Most are geared towards families and children, so save your revealing costumes for other parties.

If you’re looking to party (and don’t mind paying a cover) check out Columbia’s bar scene. Costume contests can be found almost everywhere this weekend, including:

• Whiskey Wild Halloween Party: If you enjoy the country music scene, check out Whiskey Wild. On Saturday, this saloon features a pumpkin pie eating contest, Halloween drink specials, costume contest, live music and more. Never heard of Whiskey Wild? Check out last week’s edition of Vox for more information on Columbia’s country music scene.
• Deja Vu Comedy Club’s Halloweekend: Deja Vu will host a costume contest, giving away over $1500 in prizes. Drink specials will help keep your bar tab low– especially since you splurged on that awesome costume. Make sure you get some Halloween beads, too. They’re free!
• The Blue Note’s live art glow party: If you’re still partying on Sunday, stop by the Blue Note. This event features a costume contest, live bands, body art and more. The best part? The $5 you pay at the door is donated to Joplin Disaster Relief.

If celebrating Halloween isn’t your thing, or you really don’t want to splurge on a costume this year, check out the Home Builders Association of Columbia’s Parade of Homes from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Nineteen properties will be on display and open to the public. Feel free to stop by and check out the latest in home design and building trends. Even if you’re not looking for a new home, your dream house could probably use a redesign.