Ghouls and goblins will soon come out of hiding to haunt Vancouver’s attractions and streets. With haunted trolley cars, a spooky ghost train and torch-lit procession, it’s definitely the season for goosebumps.
Stanley Park Ghost Train
October 7 to 31
Step right up and witness death-defying acts of human daredevilry at the Stanley Park Ghost Train’s “Circus of Disaster.” Every night thousands of guests will flock to the park for a train ride deep into the forest. This must-do Halloween event is perfect for young families, with just the right mix of fear and fun. Riders can also enjoy face painting, crafts, a haunted maze and other family friendly activities (included with train admission). The Stanley Park Ghost Train is open October 7 to 31 (6 pm to 10 pm, Sunday through Thursday and 6 pm to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday). For more information, call 604.257.8531.
www.ghosttrain.ca
Fort Langley’s Grave Tales
October 7 to 30
Take a walk through the historic site of Fort Langley as a costumed guide shares spine-chilling tales of the mysterious burials and old-school amputations that took place in the Hudson’s Bay Company trading post and local cemeteries. Featuring 90 minutes of ghostly stories, these walking tours are suitable for both adult and teen audiences. Tours run October 7 to 30, Friday through Sunday evenings.
www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/bc/langley/index.aspx
Vancouver Trolley Halloween Tours
October 12 to 31
Tour Vancouver’s eeriest haunts with the Vancouver Police Museum and Vancouver Trolley Company. An annual offering, the Vancouver Trolley Halloween Tour dares brave visitors to board a decorated trolley bus and travel through the city listening to storytellers spin spooky tales of murder, treachery and intrigue. With a walk through Mountain View Cemetery and a chilling visit to the old Vancouver city morgue, it’s no wonder this tour is recommended for the big kids (must be 12 or older). The 2.5-hour tour runs October 12 to 31, Wednesday through Sunday evenings. Reservations are required, and are available for individual bookings and private charters (maximum 33 passengers).
www.vancouverpolicemuseum.ca
www.vancouvertrolley.com
Parade of Lost Souls
October 29
Don’t miss the Parade of Lost Souls, the Commercial Drive neighbourhood’s annual celebration to honour the dearly departed and wake the living. As skeleton brides and witches dance under the streetlights, a colourful, torch-lit procession makes its way through neighbourhood streets and alleys. The “audience” makes up the parade and everyone is invited to participate in the fun. The procession begins at Britannia Oval and continues past the homes, streets and alleys of Commercial Drive. The journey comes to an end as spirits awake to a grand finale featuring torch choreography and fireworks.
www.publicdreams.org