Posed or possessed?

October events in Oakland and Macomb County are shaping up to be exciting times, offering whimsical and eerie experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Whether you want to enjoy some light-hearted fun or delve into the macabre, these two standout activities provide a twisty alternative to the usual fall festivals and apple picking.

Rochester Posed — A Broadway-Themed Spectacle

From 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, the streets of downtown Rochester will transform into a live mannequin display as part of the 12th Annual Rochester Posed event. This year, the theme is “Broadway,” where participating local businesses will bring their storefront windows to life with live mannequin interpretations of iconic musicals.

Shoppers and visitors can stroll through the area, enjoy some dining and participate in the interactive aspect of the evening by voting for their favorite display. Voting is easy, with a text-to-vote option available during the event hours. Winners will be announced the next day, and the top displays will be awarded the coveted Rochester Posed trophy.

The Rochester Downtown Development Authority hosts the event. Event coordinator Jenna O’Dell expressed her excitement for this year, saying the event has consistently attracted about 3,000 attendees in past years.

“People often tell us that Rochester Posed is one of their favorite events,” O’Dell said, highlighting how local businesses and volunteers contribute significantly to the event’s creativity and appeal. “The live window displays will remain a surprise until the night of the event, adding an extra layer of excitement for attendees.”

Macomb County’s Anatomy of Death Museum — A Haunting Exploration

For those who prefer a darker, more chilling experience, Macomb County’s Anatomy of Death Museum offers an unparalleled dive into the macabre. Created in 2019 by curator Todd La Rosa, the museum educates visitors on death practices and traditions from various cultures. Inside, you’ll find a bizarre array of artifacts, such as real human medical skulls, coffins and even antique embalming machines.

This October, the museum is hosting Cemetery Walks and Paranormal Investigations, giving visitors a chance to explore the eerie world of death in a more interactive way.

Visitors can book spots for these special events on the museum’s website at anatomyofdeathmuseum.com. For $30 per person, guests can enjoy a 30-minute museum tour, followed by a one-hour cemetery walk. Cemetery walks are weather permitting, LaRossa said.

Those looking for a deeper, spine-chilling experience can opt for the $100 package, which includes the museum tour, the cemetery walk and a paranormal investigation within the museum’s collection, complete with ghost-hunting equip

ment. Limited spots are available, so attendees are encouraged to call ahead to secure their place.

In addition to these events, the museum is home to Laid to Rest Antiques & Oddities, Michigan’s largest oddities shop. Here, you’ll find an assortment of items from taxidermy to real human medical skulls, catering to all things eerie and unusual. The museum is located at 292 Cass Ave, Mt Clemens.

But there’s more …

If live mannequins or the macabre isn’t your thing, Oakland and Macomb counties offer an endless array of farmer’s markets, fall festivals, apple picking and cider mills. In addition, some other unique but seasonally focused activities can be found. Here’s just a taste of some of the activities you’ll find:

HallowGlow — Hosted by TreeRunners Adventures, this fun event for ages 7+ involves illuminated treetop courses with a spooky atmosphere, trick-or-treating, and themed photo opportunities. Two-hour and three-hour sessions are available. The sessions are available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Oct. 11-27. TreeRunner Adventure Park Rochester, 7553 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester, and TreeRunner Adventure Park West Bloomfield, 6600 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield Township. Visit treerunnerparks.com/rochester/fall-festivities for times.

Morley Candy Factory Tour — Visit the Morley Candy Factory, 23770 Hall Road, Clinton Township, and watch how chocolates and candies are made. For a sweet souvenir, pick up fall-themed treats. Times are ongoing by reservation.

Hoot N’ Howl Hayride — From 7:30-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 and Saturday, Oct. 19, join a hayride at Bloomer Park to observe nocturnal animal activity. Enjoy a campfire with cider and doughnuts afterward. The cost $8 per person. Bloomer Park is located at 375 John R Road, Rochester Hills. Reservations can be made on Eventbrite.

Canterbury Village Halloween Stroll — Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening in October (Oct 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 25-27), enjoy a Halloween-themed stroll with elaborate displays, animatronics, music and more in Canterbury’s quaint village setting at 2325 Joslyn, Lake Orion. Early bird tickets are $14.99. Free parking is available.

Westview Orchards & Winery — Located in Washington Township at 65075 Van Dyke, Westview offers apple and pumpkin picking, a petting zoo, a 7-acre corn maze and wine tasting for adults.