October in HRM is highlighted by family gatherings for turkey dinners at Thanksgiving and the excitement of Halloween for the children (and even fun-loving adults).
This month we thought we would continue our seasonal theme of pointing out events in our city that in the past have featured summer activities and Holiday events near year-end that the whole family can get out and enjoy.
There are literally dozens of exciting attractions in October and leading up to Halloween that can provide fun for all ages. Some are free and others have online booking and even group or family rates. Many of the scarier activities can have age restrictions, but we encourage you to take a look at just some of those listed below to see which may pique interest with you and your family.
+ The Pumpkin Food & Folklore Festival provides FREE pumpkin decorating every Saturday morning in October from 9:00 – 12:30 at Alderney Market. Bring the whole family and see what you and the kids can create!
+ The Bluenose Ghosts Festival at Alderney Landing has something for everyone – choose from FREE storytelling and a crypt ride for the younger kids to a tour of the Haunted House for those looking for a more ghoulish adventure. Pick from single events to a bundled price for several events.
+ And now for something completely different … get ready for a virtual reality tour of the Hospital of Horror. For ages 12 and up and not for the faint of heart, this is a cool and immersive experience into the VR world with a Halloween twist.
+ Atlantic Splash Adventure on the Lucasville Road features not one but TWO elaborate haunted houses. Choose which one you want or save with a bundled price for both. Ages 12 and up, this is available every Friday and Saturday evening until October 26.
+ How cool is this? How about a walk in the haunted woods off 1561 Hammonds Plains Road? Yearning for a stroll in the darkness, complete with strobe lights, the cries of wild animals and some surprises along the way? Sounds perfectly scary!
+ Finally, the whole family can enjoy the ghost tour at the Halifax Citadel every Thursday – Saturday evening until October 26. This candlelit walk through the narrow passageways of the citadel, complete with folklore and history, will excite those of all ages. Get your tickets online and take advantage of the family rate.
Taking in one or more of the above events and many others that can be found online can help get families ready for Halloween night. Remember to make this night as safe as you can. Light coloured costumes and reflective tape can make it easy for drivers to see your trick-or-treaters. Using non-toxic make-up instead of masks eliminates issues with an obscured vision for the little ones. Make sure you accompany the younger children and provide flashlights or light sticks for your older kids, as well as a curfew. Dress warmly and watch out for suspicious treats. At your home, clear any wet leaves and obstacles from your steps and porch and have adequate lighting. And if you’re driving, be extra careful.
At Scotia Fuels, we care about you and your families. We hope you enjoyed seeing a small sample of the exciting October events our great city is offering. Be safe and stay cozy!