The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been wide-reaching, and an October tradition is the latest event to be cancelled.
The Quesnel Downtown Association has cancelled its annual Halloween Treat Trail event for 2020.
“This has been an increasing popular event over the years; however, with the large number of families that come to our downtown, we are concerned about safety at this time,” a Facebook post from the association reads. “Our businesses will miss seeing all the great costumes, not only worn by the kids, but by parents as well. See you next year!”
The Kersley Community Association has also cancelled its annual community Halloween party, and the Kersley Volunteer Fire Department will not be doing any fireworks.
Other events in the area are still set to go.
The Parkland Recreation Commission’s outdoor haunted walk will go ahead at 10 Mile Lake. The one-day event will take place on Oct. 31.
“We are social distance and protocol adapted and would love to have you join,” a Facebook post reads. “We are accepting donations to assist with our goodie bags that will be made and quarantined well in advance with all the safety precautions for the kids to enjoy.”
The commission has put out a call for volunteers and donations. If residents are interested, they can call 250-992-5400.
As well, Barkerville Historic Town and Park’s popular interpreters will be handing out treats during two Halloween events. Barkerville is hosting a Teal Pumpkin Project inclusive trick or treating event Oct. 31 from noon to 2 p.m. and a traditional trick or treating event at 6 p.m. Capacity is limited to 150, and tickets must be purchased in advance at barkerville.ca.
The Teal Pumpkin Project is a worldwide movement to create a safer, happier Halloween for all kids by offering non-food treats, such as glow sticks or small toys, and creating a welcoming and non-scary environment for children with autism or other barriers to participation in traditional Halloween. The traditional Halloween event will feature hand-made treats such as candy apples.
The B.C. Centre for Disease Control has given the go-ahead for normal trick-or-treating to take place, with guidelines for kids to follow.
READ MORE: B.C. CDC releases Thanksgiving, Halloween tips for COVID-safe fall celebrations
Homes looking to participate are asked to not hand candy directly to kids, but instead use tongs and place the treats on a tray and not a shared bowl.
The centre said people should conduct their spooky activities outdoors and wear masks if necessary.
QUIZ: How much do you really know about Halloween?
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