Though ghouls, ghosts and everything else in the eery and uncanny world have been around since the dawn of time, it will be 28 years this coming Saturday, that they'll all come together in Prince Rupert for the 28th Annual Community Halloween Fest this Saturday, Oct. 31.
Taking over the Jim Ciccone Civic Centre again this year, the Halloween Fest Society and its volunteers are organizing games, a costume parade, prize raffles, hot dogs, popcorn and drinks, a fireworks display (weather permitting) and of course, lots and lots of delicious treats.
"We have the monster mash dance contest and then there's about 20 different activities and games that kids can play. At each of those events, all the kids will get a handful of candy for every event that they participate in," said Bev Killbery of the 2015 Halloween Fest Committee.
The festivities start at 6 p.m. and end at 8 p.m., while the fireworks display is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. just behind the civic centre.
"Rain is OK but wind is not our friend," said Killbery, adding that the fireworks should be ready to go, barring any blustery conditions.
Among the games offerings at Halloween Fest are a haunted house, eyeballs in goo, a doughnut dangle, a mummy wrap and pumpkin bowling.
For kids aged 1-8, a raffle prize of a bicycle and helmet can be won and for kids aged 9-18, a tablet is up for grabs. A 2016 Grizzly bear tour can be won for the adult raffle.
As well, anyone donating money or candy can receive a residence card they can put up in their door or window on Halloween, stating that their household contributed to sponsor Halloween Fest.
Killbery is also looking for anyone interested in helping out to contact the committee, especially if they'd like to help take down the stations.
"We always encourage people who want to volunteer to – they can call our GHOST line (250-62-GHOST or 250-624-4678). We have volunteers for set-up, but we always need volunteers for take-down ... and we could always use more volunteers to help operate the games for the young kids," she said.
Other activities tying in with the ghastly weekend include a free Children's Fun pool party on Friday, Oct. 30 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. for kids aged 12 and under and a Teen Swim on Oct. 31 from 8 – 10 p.m. for those aged 13-18.
Halloween Fest is made possible by countless volunteers and community sponsors who have donated money, prizes, time and generosity to help kids from Prince Rupert, Port Edward and the outlying communities have a safe, fun and accessible Halloween.
"It wouldn't be possible without the continued support of our businesses and service clubs and local residents. I mean, without them, we wouldn't have the ability to put this event on," Killbery said.
For anyone looking to volunteer or sponsor the event, contact Killbery at bbkillbery@citywest.ca or 250-624-4678.