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.
Since its inception, Halloween Doors & More has raised more than $10 million, directly supporting Community PedsCare and the children and families it serves. This incredible financial impact has ensured that comprehensive, compassionate care remains available to those who need it most at no cost to the families. The funds have enabled the program to grow and adapt, providing essential services and support during some of the most challenging times in these families' lives.
But the legacy of Halloween Doors & More extends far beyond the dollars raised. For the pediatric patients of Community PedsCare, the event has been more than just a day of fun — it has been a source of hope, a break from the routine of medical treatments and a reminder that they are not alone.
For their families, it has provided an opportunity to see their children laugh, play and be surrounded by a community that cares.
The success of Halloween Doors & More would not have been possible without the unwavering involvement of the community and the passion of various North Florida organizations. Their commitment over the past 20 years has been the driving force behind the event’s enduring success. This support is a testament to the power of community and shared purpose in achieving incredible things.
As the event celebrates its 20th anniversary, Halloween Doors & More will be a poignant farewell to a tradition that has meant so much to so many. It will be a time to reflect on this event’s incredible impact on the community and celebrate its legacy.
This is also a great time to look forward to the future and introduce Roars & More, a gala of a different sort, which will be held at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens in February. More information will be available soon.
For those who have been a part of Halloween Doors & More over the years, whether as organizers, volunteers, donors or attendees, this final event is an opportunity to come together one last time to celebrate the magic, the memories and the difference it has been made for patients and families.
As the Jacksonville Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall fills with the sights and sounds of Halloween one more time, it will be a moment to honor the past, cherish the present and look forward to the continued impact of Community PedsCare in the years to come.
