Local families are once again invited to Rest in Peace on Kelly Street this Halloween.
After living in a condo in downtown New West for 12 years, Christie Man and her family moved to a home in the 500 block of Kelly Street in the summer of 2016. They were disappointed when less than 10 trick or treaters came do their door that first year – and decided to try and take it back to a time when longtime residents said there were too many trick or treaters to count.
“I thought, what are the bare essentials necessary for any outdoor adventure regardless of Halloween? Shelter, warmth, food and drinks,” she said. “Rest in Peace on Kelly Street was born.”
Now in its third year, this year’s event is taking place on Thursday, Oct. 31 in the 500 block of Kelly Street in Sapperton. Community members are invited to stop by before, during or after trick or treating to enjoy some free hot chocolate, coffee and pizza, to view the decorations, to get some treats and giveaways and to warm up and get shelter under gazebos and heat lamps. Fireworks will take place at 7:30 p.m.
More than 200 people attended last year’s Rest in Peace on Kelly Street.
“The atmosphere for the last two years have been filled with Halloween cheer. So many happy faces and so many grateful thank you’s for the food and hospitality,” Man said. “Jack-o-lanterns will be all along the boulevard to light the way and the road will be closed so it’ll be safe. More and more houses are being decorated too.”
A photographer will be at this year’s event to take professional-grade portraits for those who want them – at no charge.
Man said the event wouldn’t be possible without a New Westminster Neighbourhood Small Grant.
While it takes a lot of work to organize the event, Man decided to do it again this year after receiving so much support from the neighbourhood and the community. A number of businesses are donating goodies for the event and others are contributing prize giveaways.
