Like all words, the definition of "keen" depends upon usage. In the case of the event, Keen Haloween, we'll go with adjective. Eager or enthusiastic; fond of or devoted to. Keen Halloween was all of the above. Most Halloween related events happen in October, but Keen Halloween's first hugely anticipated event came at the tail end of September because Halloween aficionados, Daniel and Dawna Davis, want to share with the community the big how-tos for a successful spooky season with plenty of advance planning.

Bookmans hosted the Creepy Crafts area outside in still heated temperatures. Everyone bravely stopped by to create a tote-bag using fabric paints brought to us by Modern Crafty. Super cool idea man, Daniel Davis of Steam Crow, created Keen Halloween masks for us to change into our spookier alter egos. Beards, pumpkins, cats, owls and more were created so that everyone had a costume to wear.

Inside the Monster Marketplace hosted a plethora of talented artists and and creators. Locals such as Victor Moreno, Chaos in Color, Madame M. and of course Steam Crow attended. Even Halloween Kid, Lunasea Studtios, Tiki Machine and more bravely traveled to the land of Tempe to share their wares. Costumes were encouraged but if you needed extra help for this season an "Evil Genius Costume Bar" staffed with knowledgeable costume designers was on hand. The event was packed and I have a feeling we'll be looking for a bigger venue for 2013. I see a lot of growth for this "Maker Faire for Halloween". You can bet your candy corns that Bookmans will be back!