Be afraid -- be very afraid. Not!

Have no fear: Halloween's almost here at the Aquarium of Niagara. Save the date for Oct. 29 (from 4 to 7 p.m.).

Sure to be "fin-filled" and spine tingling, this annual event gives the staff a chance to be scary or funny, or both, while on the job. Youngsters, who "trick or treat" at the Aquarium of Niagara's door, will find lots to do and see.

Each child will receive a small "treat bag" full of surprises; they will also get a larger bag for trick-or-treating in their own neighborhood on Halloween night. While enjoying the Halloween fun at the Aquarium of Niagara, each child will create a paper plate ghost and a construction paper pumpkin. Both can be taken home to hang in a window or use as a decoration.

There will be more surprises with a special sea lion snow starring the training staff and theater students from Niagara University. Shows are planned at 4:30 and 6 p.m. The "Halloweentown" show will only be held at the 6 p.m. performance. It will take you on a journey to "Halloweentown" where a dynamic performance will be enhanced by the speed and agility of the Aquarium of Niagara's California sea lions. 

A scavenger hunt, with small pumpkins hidden in various exhibits, also will be a part of the Halloween event. Sponsors include Norampac, Niagara Gazette and Rite Aid.

A parent must accompany children. They will both be admitted at a discount of $5. Aquarium members and children wearing a marine-related costume will be admitted free. For more information about this and other events at the Aquarium of Niagara, call 285-3575, ext. 206, or visit www.aquariumofniagara.org.