After a week-long delay to collect and count every ballot cast, the annual Skeleton Craze event expanded city-wide this year with entries throughout the commercial districts along Manitou Avenue. Presented by the Manitou Springs Creative District (MSCD) in partnership with the Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau & Office of Economic Development, the event allowed an annual Halloween observance to continue.
“We’re sorry for the delay, but we believe wholeheartedly in the democratic process and we strongly felt that every ballot should be counted,” said MSCD executive director Becca Sickbert. “As a COVID-safe event, Skeleton Craze allowed our community to celebrate the season and enjoy the outrageous creativity and humor of our local businesses. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and especially to our esteemed judges, who set out in costume to evaluate all the entries on foot.”
Annie Schmitt, Kathy Minch, and Sallie Knox Hall served as the 2020 Skeleton Craze judges. The winners will receive Manitou Money from the Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce.
- 1st Place and $125: LeGrande Accents Boutique
- 2nd Place and $75: Manitou Springs Real Estate
- 3rd Place and $50: Anna’s Apothecary
- People’s Choice Winner and $100: Adam’s Mountain Café
Special “Most Relevant to 2020” Recognition Goes to Swirl Wine Bar’s “Karen”
Honorable Mentions:
- Manitou Outpost
- Green Horse Gallery
- Lane Mitchell
- InnHale
The “Favorite Candy” poll online revealed that candy corn is the local favorite, followed by Twix candy bars. Sponsors included Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts, The Manitou Springs Creative District, Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau and Office of Economic Development, and The Pikes Peak Bulletin.
