Through October 31, the old mansion becomes a 'castle', with rooms converted to living storybooks containing friendly, costumed characters.  Among the celebrities this year are Cinderella, Ariel, Capt. Jack Sparrow and Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, to name a few.  The stars of these classics tell stories, hand out treats, and field the sorts of questions only your kids can come up with.  While the intent is no masks, no meltdowns, parents should know there are some stationary prop characters that could potentially upset some super-sensitive little ones (think, the Genie from Aladdin or the Tin Man from Wizard of Oz).  Admission is $5/person, and benefits Bridgeport Hospital.  A little additional housekeeping:  they don't accept credit cards, the doors close promptly at the posted times, strollers are NOT allowed, and all children must be with an adult.

After you've toured all the storybooks, you can visit the 'Bootique' where you can enter the 'Take a Chance Auction,' or purchase trinkets and snacks.  If you're at the Enchanted Castle on either side of a meal, however, your costumed crew may want to check out Colony Grill, nearby on the Post Rd.  This no-frills pub serves up a unique, thin-crust pie, in a space with lots of booths and exposed brick.  Parents will love the 'hot oil' pizza, but it's spicy hot, so the kids are gonna wanna stick with good 'ol cheese.  Afterwards, stroll a few blocks east to 16 Handles for customized fro-yo desserts.  There are benches outside if these pleasant October evenings continue, or you can cozy up inside with your little Luke Skywalker or Princess Leia.

Burr Homestead Enchanted Castle
739 Old Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06824
203-384-3600

Hours:

10/24: 10-5pm
10/25: 10-5pm
10/27-10/30 - 3:30-6:30pm
10/31 - 10-5pm

Colony Grill
1520 Post Rd., Fairfield, CT 06824
203-259-1989

16 Handles
1300 Post Rd., Fairfield, CT 06824
203-292-9841

Originally published 10/20/13.