Halloween in Chemainus is going to be different from years past due to COVID-19 regulations and, in fact, a complete change in routine for many residents.
Typically, Chemainus business would offer a safe trick or treating while also having some fun activities in the park, but that’s all been put on hold this year.
But there’s no need to fret, according to the Chemainus Business Improvement Association’s executive director Krystal Adams. The CBIA is inviting young and old to get moving and have some fun in a safe and distanced way.
The Great Halloween Pumpkin Search
Take a stroll and follow the clues on the big full page ad in this week’s edition of the Courier. Each clue correlates to a location of a pumpkin. Once you find one, simply write the location and the word, spelling out a phrase. This allows kids to keep their distance safely as the search is offered from Thursday to Saturday.
Pumpkins will be in business windows and on front walkways. All will be visible from the street or sidewalk so there’s no need to search inside businesses. All of this comes from the safe distancing measures due to COVID.
“The CBIA is reminding people to keep their two-metre distance from others and to wear a mask if they can,” noted Adams. “If there is a person looking at the pumpkins ahead of you simply wait the required distance back and record the information after they leave.
“Spend the afternoon in the beautiful fall weather having some Halloween fun. You can add to this, too. For example you can time challenge your friends, not use any of the tips given and just go looking for them, or even make up some of your own extra hidden spots for friends. Just have fun with it.”
Once you have collected all the words and locations, simply drop your finished search into the great Halloween pumpkin outside Hansel & Gretel’s Candy Shop on Willow Street. Doing this could earn you a $100 gift certificate to local CBIA area businesses. Young and old alike are welcome to participate. One entry per person.
Colouring Contest
For children from two to 12, the Chemainus BIA is offering a fun colouring contest this Halloween. Print, tear or digitally colour the colouring page provided as a full page in the Courier or online at shopchemainus.ca. Once coloured, log onto Facebook and go to the Tourism Chemainus Page. You will find a post there which will be clearly visible for colouring entries. Simply take a picture of the entry and upload it with the name and age of the person who coloured it for a chance to win a $25 gift basket. One entry per child.
“Have a spooktacular Halloween in Chemainus and as different as it may be, let’s stay safe and try to make the best of it,” noted Adams, wishing everyone a fun-filled Halloween on behalf of the CBIA.
