Submitted by Alli Behnke, HKYFS
(September 14, 2026) — Fall is an incredibly special time of year for Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services! “As we watch kids return to school, support families through transition, and pick up programs and events designed to foster resilience and community, we also get very excited about the Fall Festivities that we coordinate each year. These events not only help to foster the magic that makes HK feel like such a special place to live, but provide a critical opportunity for HKYFS to raise funds for programmatic needs in the year ahead,” says Co-Director Alli Behnke.
Pumpkin Run
Every Fall runners, walkers, and families look forward to the traditional Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services (HKYFS) Pumpkin Run, a 5K run, walk, and kids run in picturesque Higganum. Last year the cool crisp air encouraged participants to embrace the challenge of a beautiful course, while also inviting families and the community to paint a pumpkin, create a bracelet, play fall games, win prizes for the best costumes (dogs, too!), enjoy Madison School of Rock’s House Band along the run, and celebrate with each other. This is truly a community event supported by local partners embracing what it means to be “HK.”
This year, the 33rd annual Pumpkin Run will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026 beginning at Haddam-Killingworth High School. The 5K and walk kick off at 10:00 a.m. and the Kids Fun Run follows at approximately 11:15 a.m. On-site registration will be available starting at 8:00 a.m. There will be activity tables for kids with games, crafts, and treats hosted by local sports leagues, businesses, and organizations. Highlights also include tee shirts for the first 300 registered runners, custom finisher medal for all, costume contests, face painting, live music from School of Rock in Madison, a DJ, delicious warm brunch foods by Café Laurel, and more! To top it all off, the HKYFS Girls on the Run Team has created beautiful hand-made Top Finisher prizes for all age categories, adding to the personal touch and infusion of positive youth development. This promises to be a beautiful run, but also a very fun Halloween event connecting community members of all ages! Runner registration is now open at www.hkyfs.org
HKYFS relies on donations and sponsorships to provide programs, services and support to our youth and families. Sponsorships are still being accepted, with a variety of levels to include promotion of your business, by contacting HKYFS (860) 345-7498 or events@hkyfs.org.
The Pumpkin Run is the biggest fundraising event for HK Youth and Family and it supports our work focusing on positive youth development, counseling, prevention, family programs, mentoring, education, community support team, and more. HKYFS is committed to providing resources and programs that empower young individuals to reach their full potential and keep them safe. The money raised through the Pumpkin Run sponsorships and runner registrations is a meaningful way to support your local community and contribute to the well-being of youth and families in the area.
Don’t miss out on the spooktacular fun! Get your family and friends together and let’s run for a cause. It’s all treats and no tricks at the HKYFS Pumpkin Run. See you there!
Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat
The entire community is invited to celebrate the Halloween Season with a Trunk or Treat event like no other! HKYFS is thrilled to partner with the Town of Haddam, Regional School District 17, and many local groups and businesses to bring a SAFE Halloween event to HK youth!
Join us on October 17, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Haddam-Killingworth High School for a special Trunk or Treat experience, games, activities, mild spooks, concessions, and a sense of true community.
If you are interested in hosting a Trunk this year, we need you! Please reach out to us at info@hkyfs.org or learn more under events on our website www.hkyfs.org.
