Halloween is around the corner, and some local organizations are giving an alternative to the traditional trick-or-treating.

This Halloween, St. John’s Lutheran Church will hold its 11th annual Hallelujah Harvest Festival from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, the night of Halloween. Families are encouraged to attend for family-friendly games, prizes and treats.

All games at the festival will be based on Bible stories. One of the most popular games is called “Belly of the Whale,” and consists of small, dark tunnels to crawl through. Another game that is a big hit consists of a large walk-through maze that children can enter on one side and find their way through to the other.

The games cater especially well to children ages 3 through 12, though a number of junior high school students have enjoyed the activities in previous years. While some children make the festival a quick stop before they go out trick-or-treating, others like to stay the whole time. In light of the holiday, costumes are welcome, though organizers ask guests to avoid wearing anything scary. The festival is indoors, which will avoid possible bad weather.

A light dinner will also be served from 5:45 to 7:30 p.m. during the festival, along with other treats.

About halfway through the night, the church will draw door prizes, such as a free pizza from a pizza shop in town. Many local businesses have contributed to the event.

While there is no admission charge to attend the festival, guests should plan on bringing a non-perishable food, which they can trade in for 10 game tickets. Those who like additional tickets can purchase them for 10 cents each. St. John’s will donate the food items collected to the Salvation Army food shelf.

The festival is open to the public. Parental supervision is recommended for young children. St. John’s is located at 1200 13th Ave. NW in Austin. Call Troy at 507-433-2642 with questions.