Greensboro’s Halloween spirit was alive and well this year, thanks to the Flachbarth family, who organized and sponsored the community’s first Spook-tacular Halloween Decorating Contest.
The Flachbarth family promoted the contest on social media and personally funded prizes for first, second, and third place. Their enthusiasm quickly spread, inspiring local businesses, The Palms on Main and The Greene House, to contribute additional prize money. The contest was open to all residents within Greensboro city limits, encouraging everyone to embrace the Halloween season and showcase their creativity.
A total of twelve homes entered the competition, each bringing its own flair of fright and festivity. A panel of judges toured each decorated property, encountering everything from witch-hat trails and skeleton graveyards to live actors and intricately carved pumpkins.
The imagination, craftsmanship, and community pride on display absolutely blew the judges away.
“It was phenomenal,” said one of the judges. “The amount of effort and creativity that went into these homes made judging incredibly difficult — every house had something special.”
After much deliberation, the first-place winner was The Goubran’s on Twin Pines, which earned the top score in Scare Factor. The property featured roasting skeletons, eerie live actors dressed as a Pennywise and Michael Myers, and more, keeping the judges frightful and on their toes throughout the visit.
Second place went to The Day House on Stagecoach, recognized for outstanding effort and detail, featuring dozens of uniquely carved pumpkins, spooky portraits, and perfectly outlined Halloween lights. Third place was awarded to The Sitler House on Southeast, which impressed judges with twin live actors, fog effects, and a towering spooky scarecrow.
Two homes also received honorable mentions for their exceptional creativity and family-friendly displays. The Webbs on Webb Lake were recognized for their cheerful, family-centered decorations featuring skeletons mowing the yard, playful crime scenes, and a welcoming Halloween atmosphere. Hooks Residence on North East, was honored for its most creative and cohesive theme, featuring an unforgettable “Til Death Do Us Part” wedding scene.
The Office of Downtown Development extends heartfelt appreciation to the Flachbarth family for organizing the contest and inspiring such spirited community participation.
“It’s families like the Flachbarths who make Greensboro such a special place,” said the Main Street Event Coordinator, Brittney Burden. “They brought neighbors together, encouraged creativity, and filled our city with Halloween fun.”
The Office of Downtown Development thanks all participants for their efforts in making this year’s Halloween one to remember and looks forward to even more spooky fun next year.