INNISFAIL – There was plenty of frights and delights at the Innisfail and District Historical Village.
Its annual Halloween at the Village event took place on Oct. 20 and 21.
“It’s fun and it’s not too scary. A parent can come here and know that it’s safe,” said Anna Lenters, historical village board president. “We are so pleased with the turnout and the weather.”
Families came out to enjoy a variety of sights, treats and activities at the village.
“There’s pirates, witches, you can have your fortune told, the aliens are (here) and in our train station you’ll see our newlyweds, Frankenstein and his wife,” said Lenters. “They were married last year at the church and now they’re celebrating domestic bliss in the parlour.
“We rotate them around, we change them and we add to their presentation every year,” she added. “It keeps it interesting.”
In addition to the Halloween-themed structures and decorations, there was also activities for children and treats for purchase, including hot chocolate, coffee, pie and cupcakes.
“There’s a lot of crafts for kids,” said Lenters, noting the number of volunteers who helped out with the two-day event. “The volunteers make it work. We have about 35 volunteers here tonight.”
Last year the event was held on a Friday and Saturday. This year, for the first time, they switched it to Saturday and Sunday.
“We’re trying to do it on a Sunday so parents don’t have to rush home from work (on a Friday),” she said. “We’re trying it this year. It’s the first year for a Sunday and we thought maybe it would be easier for families.”
Innisfail's Sharon Ardron was at the event for a third straight year with her three grandchildren.
“One of our granddaughters' birthday is in October and we let her choose what she’d like to do and this is what she likes,” said Ardron. “It’s a nice event and it’s a good thing to support as well.”
Newcomer Mandy Bastien, from west of Penhold, was at the Halloween event for the first time with her children.
“It looks like there’s lots to do and there’s a good mix of things,” said Bastien. “I’m very impressed it’s great for the kids. We’ll be back next year.”
