542. Toronto’s Many Halloween Manifestations – Start Oct. 24, 2015

Halloween is on October 31.  Toronto has been developing many traditions around this event which must look very strange to newcomers to town and country. In addition to the thousands of skeletons, ghosts and pumpkins decorating our stores and houses, many children will be going from door to door dressed like Spiderman, princesses, or Star Wars characters. They will carry bags as they  “trick or treat” for candy.

Some neighbourhoods organize special family events. Among these is the Toronto West Halloween Fest with performances, celebrities, and a costume contest. Its five-kilometer walk in support of St. Joseph’s Health Centre will start at 11am. Register at torontowesthalloweenfest.ca and note the date: October 25.

There’s also Boo at the Barns at the Wychwood Barns October 24: http://bit.ly/1RjnRn6 and the Halloween Bed Race on the Kingsway on October 24 also for charity. See: http://bit.ly/1ZPQHSj.  The annual Junction Pumpkinfest is on October 31 – November 1. This family-friendly festival has crafts, workshops, pumpkin carving and more. Several parks like High Park will have a pumpkin float.  Its is on October 25. See: http://bit.ly/1RjpFwf. City of Toronto heritage museums like Todmorden Mills and Colborne Lodge in High Park will celebrate too. Click on: http://bit.ly/1gW61HE. Look for events in your own neighbourhood. Many stores should have posters in their windows.

Among the list of  adult events, we highly recommend the costume creativity  of  Halloween on Church Street and the Night of Dread. More information about these and other events are on:http://bit.ly/1VYanP4.

Many schools, bars and community groups also celebrate with costumes and parties. Originally an ancient Celtic festival, October 31 is the eve of the Christian All Saints’ Day.