Five free family friendly Halloween events around Lower Mainland

Boo! Halloween is just around the corner. There are more places than ever this year to bring the whole family out for a good scary ol’ time, and best of all, for free or by donation. We’ve listed some of the hottest spots from North Vancouver to Tsawwassen in today’s blog post.

Coquitlam

Head over to the Mackin House (1116 Brunette Ave.) on Oct. 27 from 12 to 3 p.m. for Heritage Halloween: Stories on Wheels, a street theatre performance inspired by the traditional Japanese travelling show called Kamishibai (paper theatre). A comic narrator leads the audience along using illustrated picture cards displayed in a miniature wooden stage. Come in costume, and there will also be snacks and crafts.

Delta

Are you brave enough to tackle the 40-foot by 40-foot indoor Halloween Monster Maze at Tsawwassen Mills, running everyday until Oct. 31? Those that successfully make their way through the maze — featuring decorations like graveyard and cornfield backdrops and ghost, scarecrow and witch decorations — receive a scratch card giving visitors a chance to win candy, gift cards and other prizes totally over $10,000. Other activities include a make-up and nail art station, costume photos and a Science World Spooky Science for Kids. Located near mall Entry 3.

North Vancouver

Take your kids out for a candy run in a fun and safe environment at Lower Lonsdale on Oct. 31 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. About 40 local businesses in the neighbourhood are participating, identified with a Trick or Treat Here decal in the window, and zombie dancers will be on hand providing live entertainment.

Richmond

Explore the Nature House in the Richmond Nature Park and learn about the origins of Halloween, and its ties to the environment, at Once Upon a Pumpkin, on daily until Oct. 31. All ages.

Surrey

After a one-year hiatus due to poor weather, Spooktacular Newton returns on Oct. 27 for another day full of haunted train rides, a spook theatre, petting zoo and much more. Take a break and enjoy the free barbecue courtesy of the Newton Business Improvement Association and Envision Financial. Don’t forget to grab a pumpkin by donation on the way out, with proceeds going to the Surrey Food Bank.