Halloween Doors & More has been a cherished tradition in Jacksonville for two decades, bringing joy and comfort to countless families. But this will be its final year.

What began as a desire to raise awareness for Community PedsCare, the pediatric program of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, developed into a beloved annual celebration that has benefited the lives of many children living with serious and life-limiting illnesses while including families from all over each year celebrating and raising awareness of the PedsCare program.

The story of Halloween Doors & More began in 2000 when Betty Petway and Susan DuBow had a brainstorming session with a bold vision: to create an event that would function as a gala, raise awareness and generate substantial funds, all while being an event where the sponsors’ and guests’ children, along with the children of Community PedsCare, could participate and enjoy themselves. This unique concept, blending the elements of a high-profile fundraiser with Halloween’s whimsical and inclusive spirit, set the event apart from others.

Recognizing the need for a strong planning team, Brook Acosta-Rua and Jill McGriff joined DuBow to chair the first annual event. Together, this dedicated group spent 18 months carefully crafting what would become one of Jacksonville’s most anticipated events, becoming at the time, the highest grossing first year event in Jacksonville’s history.

In October 2001, the inaugural Halloween Doors & More event debuted, transforming the Jacksonville Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall into a fantastical world of enchantment. From the beginning, the event captured the hearts of the community, drawing in families, volunteers and local businesses eager to support a heartfelt and impactful cause.

Over the years, the event has continued to evolve, with each year bringing a new theme and new surprises, culminating this year in a circus-themed extravaganza. This evolution has kept the event fresh and engaging, attracting new participants and retaining the interest of long-time supporters.