This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The moon is out. The leaves are orange and gold; pumpkins grin from doorsteps.But at the Hallelujah House fall carnival, tour guide Sandy Howell reassured kids and families: "There's nothing scary here."

No tricks, but only treats awaited the crowd that had gathered for the 10th annual fall carnival hosted by World Hope Worship Center on Mooresville Road.

As a testament to its popularity, more than 200 people walked through the gates in the first half hour they were open. "For the first night, that's great," Associate Pastor Mike Smith said. Smith helps coordinate the event along with about 100 volunteers, mostly church members.

The three-night festival is billed as a safe, family-friendly alternative to Halloween trick-or-treating. "We've got games, candy, bounce houses, food and fun," Smith said.

Part of the event's appeal is its low cost. Admission, games and treats are free; food, including hot dogs and lemonade, is sold for a modest fee.

Nancy Hall brought sons Dillon, 6, and Michael, 11. "We always come here to the church and do this," she said. "It's good for the kids." Dillon and Michael had just traded in their scorecards, full of points earned playing games, and picked florescent glowsticks from the prize table.