HGTV launches Halloween Block Party Oct. 18 and benefit UNICEF

In HGTV's Halloween Block Party, premiering on Sunday, October 18, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, viewers will follow three professional party planners as they join forces with three families to host unique Halloween celebrations. Whether it's a sophisticated gathering for adults or fun, budget-friendly parties for kids, viewers will discover how to create the best Halloween bashes on their block - and support the Trick-or -Treat for UNICEF campaign, one of the longest running youth volunteer movements in America.

During the special, lifestyle expert and designer Kelley Moore will produce a stunningly creative Halloween party for children and adults. Employing the popular children's tale Hansel and Gretel as the inspiration for her Halloween party plan, Kelley will team with the Peterson family to create a delicious candyscape and a fun witch's lair, complete with a potions bar of flavored fountain drinks.

Kelley's party not only will be great fun, but also will benefit Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF, an education and fundraising initiative that provides U.S. children, along with their parents and teachers, the opportunity to learn about their peers worldwide who are truly in need. Visitors who go to HGTV.com will have the opportunity to make a donation to www.unicefusa.org and will be able to learn more about throwing a Halloween party. In addition, Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF National Partner Procter & Gamble will match all donations made via HGTV.com from Sunday, October 18 through Saturday, October 31, 2009, up to $100,000.

"As the national media partner for the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF campaign, HGTV is proud to present a program such as Halloween Block Party that not only provides viewers with party planning tips to make the Halloween season special in their own homes, but also provides them with a chance to actively support a worldwide initiative that truly impacts the lives of children around the world," said Jim Samples, president, HGTV.

The fun will continue during the Halloween special when celebrity event planner Michael Russo works with the Boscovich family to create a sophisticated seasonal gathering. Blending classy décor with the thrills and chills of Halloween, Michael's "Haunted Mansion" party design will feature "decaying" walls, a faux stone bar and one daring neighbor painted as a "living statue."

Finally, using his decorating, entertaining and food styling expertise, designer Eddie Ross will reveal his secrets for hosting an all-out Halloween neighborhood party on a budget. Inspired by the classic tale, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Eddie will work with the John family to create his event design. From ghoulish gravestone rubbings to a Headless Horseman installation in the front yard, Eddie's clever ideas will show viewers how to throw a memorable Halloween block party with inspiration from their favorite creepy tales.