Nanaimo businesses are preparing to scare up some Halloween spirit during the Downtown Trick or Treat on Oct. 27.
In addition to handing out treats to costumed kids, participating merchants sporting orange and black balloons outside their doors will also have their stores decorated for the occasion.
The fun kicks off at 11 a.m. at Diana Krall Plaza, followed by trick-or-treating at noon.
Even fido can get in on the action with a pet parade down Fitzwilliam Street at 11:30 a.m. and paw readings by pet clairvoyant ‘Yvonne’ at Lobelia’s Lair in the Old City Quarter from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and again from 1-2 p.m.
The cost is by donation and all proceeds go to the SPCA. Registration for the pet parade will take place at Woofles Barking Boutique at 11 a.m.
The pet parade will end in Diana Krall Plaza, and there will be prizes handed out for the best costumed human and pet, the best homemade costume and the best overall pet.
The day winds down with an outdoor magic show, UnReality Magic, at the plaza at 2 p.m., with a magical grand finale at 3 p.m. Seating is limited so be sure to come early.
Free parking will be provided 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on level P2 of the Port of Nanaimo Centre, with access off Gordon Street.
For more information, visit www.dnbia.ca/events/downtown-trick-or-treat.