Following the lead of other local theme parks, SeaWorld has moved its Halloween Spooktacular to an earlier start.

The family-friendly event starts a week earlier than last year and runs from Sept 23 through Oct. 29.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World starts Aug. 25 and Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights begin Sept. 15.

Children can dress in their Halloween costumes and take part in a “fantasea” dance party and trick-or-treat at different stations throughout SeaWorld. An underwater environment comes to life at Penelope’s Garden Party with a live DJ, floating bubbles and sea-themed characters.

The Count, Elmo, and Abby take the stage in the sing-along stage performance during “Sesame Street’s Countdown to Halloween.” Count von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast is back featuring a buffet with the Count and Elmo at $9 for kids and $19 for adults.

Single-day tickets purchased at least 1-day in advance save $20 and bring the entrance price to $79.99. The party is held every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. until the park closes.