Playland
You know an event is going to be scary when the press release includes a warning that the occasion is absolutely not for children under the age of 12 and seniors 65 and older, as well as anyone with a sensitivity to strobe lights, high blood pressure, a heart condition or is pregnant.
So what fresh hell can this be? The annual Fright Nights at Playland, which starts this weekend and continues through the entire Halloween season, including Nov. 1 and 2.
That means for the first time, Fright Nights will be operating an extra two weekends, while closing some Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. That translates to a reduction in ticket prices this year.
Guests can face their fears in six haunted houses and, for those who survive, risk their lives on 12 rides and be entertained by the Monsters of Schlock, a two-man comedy, circus act and stunt show influenced by the early days of vaudeville, the Three Stooges and “carnivals of yore.”
And just a reminder, absolutely no guest costumes will be allowed so leave that Miley Cyrus finger, Duck Dynasty beard or Sharknado chainsaw at home. For more information, go to frightnights.ca.
Stanley Park
While the Stanley Park Halloween Ghost Train offers its own share of thrills, the only warning offered in its press release is that it’s suitable for children three and older. The theme of this year’s event, which opens Friday and runs through Nov. 2, is classic horror movies so expect appearances from Dracula, the Wolfman, the Mummy and the Phantom of the Opera.
Take a seat on the miniature train, while keeping an eye out for these creatures from the silver screen as they slither and crawl out from their coffins and tombs.
The Pumpkin Patch is open for all hours of operation, but pumpkin carving only takes place Oct. 15 and 22 at 6 p.m. Costumes are encouraged Oct. 29 and prizes will be awarded for originality, personality and design. Learn about the night creatures of Stanley Park with hands-on activities hosted by the Stanley Park Ecology Society.
Lantern-lit wildlife walks take place Thursday through Sundays from 6 to 9:30 p.m. for an additional fee. For more information visit vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/ghost-train.
Point Grey
A music and dance benefiting Yaffa Housing Society takes place Oct. 12 from 7 to 11:30 p.m. at St. James Community Square, 3214 West 10th Ave. (The society runs Jewish group homes for adults living with mental disabilities.) Lend a Hand features special guests Michael Dunn and Alan Zisman, jazz vocalist Nancy Newman and Friends, the Noodniks, a roving magician and silent auction. Advance tickets can be purchased at Zulu Records, 1972 West Fourth Ave., or at the door the night of the event.
Downtown
In Wednesday’s edition I wrote about Reel Causes and the City of Vancouver’s Invisible Night event benefiting Raincity Housing and Support Society’s LGBTQ+ Shelter for youth. Invisible Night is an evening of art, film and dialogue about youth homelessness. The organizers have since contacted me and requested I direct interested participants to the Reel Causes website at reelcauses.org for ticket information.
