With Halloween nearing, and Vancouver’s unusually pleasant October weather, now is the perfect time to step outdoors and take part in the various happenings around the city!
One way to get into the Halloween spirit is to make a visit to Stanley Park’s Halloween Ghost train, which has been entertaining visitors each October since 1999.
This year’s theme is ’Monster Movie Mashup,’ meaning that on your train ride you are entertained by re-enacted scenes from classic horror films. Every notable character makes appearances from Dracula to Frankenstein, instantly bringing you back to a time where coloured films were non-existent and the silver screen was at its peak. A favourite amongst my group was the imitation of Frankenstein, where a giant Frankenstein puppet comes alive, only to suffocate its creators as you helplessly pass by.
Even scarier than the costumed actors, are the elaborate and eerie sets placed between the trees. However, one light-hearted, creative touch throughout the ride are miniature displays of skeletons filming a horror movie, placed between each of the life-size performances. As the train ride progresses, so does the filming for the skeletons. For children it is a great way to make the train ride seem less threatening, and it reminds all of the underlying theme.
Although many adults could be seen attending the Halloween ghost train ride by themselves, I strongly suggest bringing a little one along. It is certainly worth it to see their eyes become saucer-wide as a werewolf chases after the train.
That being said, although the train ride may not scare older riders, the acting and humorous details put into the performance are more than enough to keep everyone’s interest. The clown who assists riders boarding the train is notably quite the character, and will give you a laugh before your depart.
Once off of the train, there is still a lot to keep the younger ones in your group busy! They can make their way through the maze, create Halloween crafts, try their hand at Halloween games for prizes, watch a Halloween movie, or even watch the Halloween street performers.
If your group is feeling more adventurous, head over to the Stanley Park Ecology Society’s wildlife stand, where you can test your knowledge on some of the creatures that frequent Vancouver neighborhoods. You even have a chance to go on a guided nature tour of Stanley Park, where you may come across one of the many bat colonies living in the depths of the forest.
Overall the Stanley Park Halloween ghost train gets two thumbs up for providing a great October outing in Vancouver! And don’t forget to try the organic popcorn sold by the Stanley Park Ecology Society – it may just be the best you have had!
Written by: Kerri J
Photo Credit: ross doherty
