A cheerfully decorated campus greeted staff, students and their families as they gathered for a hauntingly good time.

Pioneer Elementary hosted the third annual Fall Festival and the event, hosted by the school's Parents Club, was a big hit with patrons, raising more than $3,500.

"I'd say there's probably 400 if not more people here," said Principal Dana Eaton. "It's just a fantastic event."

Festivalgoers enjoyed a plethora of activities, including face painting, bounce houses, food, a silent auction and raffle, with prizes donated by parents and a haunted house put together by the student council and Parents Club. Ms. Pockets the clown also made an appearance and entertained the children.

In addition, 26 game booths were manned by volunteers from local high schools, Boy Scouts, parents, staff and students. Players of all ages and abilities tried their luck and collected tickets for winning or candy for making the effort. Tickets could later be traded for prizes.

The gala is the school's biggest fund-raiser of the year, but is geared more toward building the spirit of community in the school - giving people a chance to enjoy themselves as well as get acquainted.

"It's another piece of family atmosphere the Parents Club has worked so hard to create," said Eaton, who also observed former students now in middle school attending with their families.

Funds raised will benefit the school. Past purchases have included classroom materials, art supplies, books, and risers and instruments for the school's music program.

Ranee Beard, chair of the Parents Club PR, said the committee was pleased with the outcome and by the number of attendees.

"This turnout's excellent," Beard said. "It has gone really smooth."