Oak Bay Village's Trick or Treat on the Avenue returns for another spooky Halloween celebration this year with fun planned for all ages.
Organized by participating businesses through the Oak Bay Business Improvement Association (BIA), the village's Trick or Treat on the Avenue event is just around the corner.
From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 31, businesses and community partners along Oak Bay Avenue from Foul Bay Road to Monterey Avenue are welcoming trick or treaters.
This year's event focuses on family-friendly fun and affordability.
"All activities are offered at no cost to make it easier for families to enjoy the celebrations together," states the BIA.
Keep watch for pumpkin posters popping up in shop windows of participating businesses, inviting visitors to stop by.
And if you do stop by, prepare for staff appearing in costume, as well as other surprises throughout the afternoon.
The village's festivities include live music from Gravitation with Burke Rosen, Bill Hamilton, Reiner Piehl and Monica Gregorish.
Organizers with the BIA describe Gravitation as "fun, upbeat music including Halloween tunes as well as a mix of rock and folk music to keep the afternoon lively."
The entertainment continues with a variety of "circus-style performances" ahead.
Watch for taller-than-usual individuals stilt walking the avenue. Then, look up higher where aerial performers prepare to dazzle visitors.
Other talent closer to the ground include hand balancing and juggling acts.
"Balloon artist Mike Dada, who was a popular addition to the Oak Bay Village Night Market, will be offering balloon creations on demand," says organizers.
And if you're still unsure of the dress code, dressing up is encouraged.
A costume photo booth run by Canvas Community Church ensures families can capture Halloween memories together.
The Oak Bay Fire Department will also continue their longstanding participation in the festivities.
"Attendees are invited to try hitting a target using a real fire hose, with the assistance of a Fire Department member. The Department mascot, Sparky, will be in attendance and the Department's new ladder truck will also be on the Avenue for a photo op," states organizers.
Looking to stroll further? Between 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., Oak Bay Parks, Recreation and Culture is hosting a guided walk along "the enchanted woodland path leading from Oak Bay Avenue to the Monterey Centre."
Oak Bay Village's shops and eateries will be open as well.