A local business is trying to bring together children for a Halloween themed event later this month.
The River Bookshop’s “Witches Walk” trick or treat event comes to town Oct. 26 with children and youth asked to meet at the store for the 2 p.m. costume parade. Bookshop owner Richard Peddie stated this could develop into the next big idea for the town, noting the average Canadian spends $64 on Halloween. He believes it could have a positive impact on the community, noting 70 per cent of Canadians celebrate Halloween.
The event started two years ago and has grown from there.
Darrie-Ann Richard, a bookseller at the local book store, said they had 50 families the first year but it grew to about 160 last year. There were 17 local shops involved last year and they hope for at least 25 of the 31 invitations that were sent out to have a positive response.
“We see, by next year, this has the potential to be another major event in Amherstburg,” added Peddie.
The parade will circle the block, using Richmond St., Ramsay St., Murray St. and Dalhousie St.
Richard added there will also be a youth poetry contest. Last year’s topic was “The Ghost of the River Bookshop” with this year’s theme being “When the Lights Go Out at the River Bookshop.” Prizes will be awarded in K-3, 4-8 and 9-12 grade categories.
“The winners will be invited to read their stories at the Sunday Storytime (Oct. 27),” Richard added.
A pumpkin carving contest will also be held with people invited to drop off their pumpkins the morning of Oct. 26 between 10 a.m.-12 noon. Peddie said he hopes other towns pick up on this.
“We think all small towns should share ideas,” he stated.
More information, including how to enter the contests, will be available on the River Bookshop’s Facebook page.
“Witches Walk” trick-or-treat costume parade coming back to Amherstburg
By Ron Giofu