Seniors in WSU’s sport management program will host a Halloween carnival on Oct. 31 from 4–7 p.m. at the Pullman Parks and Recreation Center.
The event will feature arts and crafts, games, trick-or-treating, bingo, and a special activity hosted by a local donut shop. It is part of the students’ capstone course in sports event management, in which they must take on the challenge of organizing a community event from the ground up. The event is geared toward children ages 3 to 10 and has free admission.
For senior Kinsey Kallaher, the project manager for this semester’s event, it’s about more than just Halloween festivities — it’s about using the skills developed throughout her time in the program to bring people together.
“Our goal is to create a fun and safe space for families to connect with each other,” Kallaher said. “We’re applying everything we’ve learned about event management, from planning to execution, and it’s a great way to give back to a community that supports us.”
The capstone course is a critical part of the sport management program, allowing students to step into real-world scenarios. They handle everything from budgeting and logistics to coordinating volunteers and marketing the event to the public. For many, it’s the first time they’ve had such a hands-on opportunity to plan an event of this scale.
We’re applying everything we’ve learned about event management, from planning to execution, and it’s a great way to give back to a community that supports us.
Kinsey Kallaher, senior
Washington State University
“Last year, more than 125 families attended, and we’re hoping to surpass that this year with over 200,” Kallaher said. “We’ve been working hard to ensure everything goes smoothly, and we’ve already seen great community interest.”
While fun and games are at the heart of the event, there’s also a meaningful cause behind it. Kallaher and her team aim to raise $2,000 for the Pullman Parks & Recreation Care to Share Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to families in need. Donations and sponsorships will support the fund once event costs are covered.
Kallaher said volunteers have been key to the success of the carnival, and she encourages community members to get involved. Volunteers can sign up through the event’s Instagram page, @pullman.halloween.carnival, where they’ll find a link to register or scan a QR code for easy access.
“The more volunteers we have, the more we can do for the families who attend,” Kallaher said. “We’re hoping to see volunteers in costume, making it an even more festive atmosphere.”
The carnival represents a culmination of the students’ hard work throughout the semester and offers a glimpse into the future careers many of them hope to pursue. For Kallaher and her classmates, it’s not just about a grade — it’s about making a positive impact through sport and event management.
The Parks and Recreation Center is located at 190 SE Crestview Street, Suite B, in Pullman.
