By Mark Ambrogi

The Goldfish Swim Schools in Carmel and Fishers hope to make a splash with their free Halloween open swim.

Although the area schools have conducted free open swims around holidays before, this is first Halloween-themed one.

“One of our biggest hits was the Easter open swim, and the Easter bunny made an appearance,” said Andrew Joseph, regional manager for the Goldfish Swim Schools. “It was just fun for the families. We always do cakes or cookies or cupcakes after the open swim to make it a family event that they can do for free.”

The Halloween open swim will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Carmel, 271 Merchants Square Dr., Suite A-110 and in Fishers, 11581 Geist Pavilion Dr., Suite 114.

The staff, including lifeguards, will be in kid-friendly costumes, and will give out candy. At both schools, everyone will receive a raffle ticket with the winner earning a month of free lessons.

Joseph, a Carmel resident, said he hopes the open swim might be a way for perspective students to learn more about their schools.

The schools are designed to teach children from four months to 12 years.

“We want be known as leaders in water safety in around the Indianapolis area,” Joseph said. “Our swim lessons are fantastic way to get a child safe in the water and confident. If they becoming a competitive swimmer, great, if not we really want as many children safe in the water as possible.”

One thing that makes Goldfish Swim School stand out from other swim schools is the pool is set up just for lessons.

“The water is almost at a therapeutic level at 90 degrees so the children have shiver-free lessons,” Joseph said.

Pre-registration for Halloween open swim is required by calling 810-0790.