CHATAN, Okinawa — If you’re scary, Chatan American Village wants you.

Ghosts, witches and other eerie creatures are welcome to participate in the second annual Halloween Costume Contest on Oct. 31 at this popular off-base hangout for Americans.

Teruo Okuhara, chairman of Chatan Mihama American Village Jigyosha Kai, said Americans are desired because their imagination "contributed to a great success of the event last year," adding that of the 10 winners from the last costume competition, eight were from the States.

Halloween has become popular in Japan in recent years, with many malls and stores decorated for the event. Still, Okuhara said it is Americans who really breathe the festive spirits into the contest.

"We believe this is a great opportunity to remove the invisible fences between the local and American communities," Okuhara said.

The event is open and free to everyone, including pets accompanied by their owners.

The contest is supported by the American Consulate and American Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by the Chatan business community.

Trick-or-treaters will be rewarded at more than 50 stores and restaurants that post Halloween signs featuring a pumpkin with Chatan’s landmark Ferris wheel in the background.

What: Costume contest

When: Oct. 31, from 5:30-8 p.m. Registration accepted from 2-6 p.m.

Where: Chatan American Village Plaza at the Ferris wheel.

Prizes: For those 13 and older, first is $300, second is $200 and third is $100. For those 12 and younger, the top 10 winners will receive various size boxes of candies.

For more info: Contact Tsuya Ikeda at 098-926-0808, or e-mail: igei@american-depot.co.jp.