Family Fright Fest: Barrie’s free Halloween-themed event
Barrie's Family Fright Fest runs Oct. 18 and 19, 2022 at the Sadlon Arena (CTV NEWS)
Celebrate the Halloween season at a new, free, family-friendly event hosted on Oct. 18 and Oct. 19 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Sadlon Arena.
The Family Fright Fest is an evolution of the city's former Ghost Bus Tour, with added elements inside and outside Sadlon Arena to enhance the experience.
"Family Fright Fest is two nights of family-friendly Halloween fun: get seriously scared in the haunted house, join a Halloween-themed skate or hop on a Barrie Transit bus for a family storytime that will surely frighten even the bravest of souls," said Steve Lee-Young, manager of recreation and culture programs.
Family Fright Fest activities include:
- Photo booth
- Fire pit
- Haunted house
- Scary storytime on a Barrie Transit bus
- Halloween-themed skates (Oct. 18: 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Oct. 19: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
- Crafts and games
The event will also feature a costume contest -- dressed-up participants will be entered in a draw to win a prize. If choosing to dress up, participants are asked to ensure costumes are suitable for a family-friendly environment.
Although all activities are free and suitable for all ages, and are geared towards a family audience, some activities may be too scary for some participants.
The city is also seeking volunteers 14 and older, to assist in Family Fright Fest, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 18 and/or 19. Those interested can email rec.volunteers@barrie.ca.
Additional Halloween programs at the city:
- In addition to celebrating the Halloween season with Family Fright Fest, during the week of Oct. 24 leading up to Halloween, the city will also host Halloween-themed skates and swims at various recreation/community centres. View the drop-in schedules for times and locations.
- Like previous years, the city sells Halloween swim/skate passes at 50 cents per pass, suitable for one free drop-in swim or skate for children 14 and under. Passes are currently available for purchase until Oct. 31 at Allandale Recreation Centre, East Bayfield Community Centre, Peggy Hill Team Community Centre, City Hall and Parkview Community Centre.
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