Boo this & boo that. . .

Preparation for the BIG date seems to become an all-out frenzy for me and MysterE. We are always running around half crazed in a zombie state trying to add to our haunt and allow for some new fun for ourselves. This year, I was thinking - perhaps I can host a few "Prep" parties - themed for fun, but will get the neighbors and friends in on the decorating and planning part. Maybe even get a few willing actors out of the early events.

I have been also toying with the idea of hosting these separate parties earlier in the month with these Titles:
"Tea of Terror",
"Witches Walk"
or "Vo-Doo Desert"

So far - my plan would be to have light refreshments and focus on costuming and crafty activity in preparation for the BIG 10/31.
This way, I might get the neighbors more involved and enlist them in helping get out decorations for Halloween -

What do you think? Should I make these just fun events without any hidden "work" that would help me prep for the big day - or should there be a bit of activity involved that gets folks in the mood to help me decorate, etc?