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5 Spooky Events Happening in Vancouver This Week (Oct. 22-28)

By Alyssa Hirose /

It’s not Halloween, but it is Halloweek.

(Photo Credit: VanDusen Botanical Garden.)

Ghosts in the Garden

Now – October 31

Experience all of the thrills (and chills) of Hänsel and Gretel at VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Glow in the Garden. See the 55-acre garden transformed into an ominous oasis each evening, complete with glowing lights, spooky sounds, and incredible pumpkin art. Watch out for witches!When: Now – Wednesday, October 31Where: VanDusen Botanical GardenCost: From $12.50More Info: vancouver.ca   (Photo Credit: Science World.)

Creeps at the Convention

October 25-26

As the name suggests, Murdercon is not a Halloween event for the faint of heart. This 19+ murder mystery is part of Science World After Dark. It’s set at a sci-fi convention, where attendees use science to solve a grisly murder. If the inherent magical joy of dressing in costume isn’t enough to convince you, costumed guests will also be entered to win a prize.When: Thursday, October 25 – Friday, October 26Where: Science WorldCost: $36More Info: scienceworld.ca   (Photo Credit: rlstine.com)

Terrors at the Theatre

October 26

What child hasn’t had a nightmare triggered by the creepy tales of R.L. Stine? The author of the Goosebumps series will be giving a lecture about his life and career this Friday, followed by a Q&A and book signing. Go to praise your favourite childhood author, or perhaps blame him for your current need to sleep with a nightlight.When: Friday, October 26 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.Where: Queen Elizabeth TheatreCost: From $31More Info: vancouvercivictheatres.com   (Photo Credit: Parade of Lost Souls.)

Spooks on the Street

October 27

This top-secret parade might be Vancouver’s coolest Halloween event. The Parade of Lost Souls is an annual spooky celebration in the Commercial Drive area; the exact location isn’t released until midnight the day before. Come in costume, bring something to sacrifice to the altar (your favourite scarf? A homecooked meal? Love letters from your ex?), and enjoy live bands, food trucks, and a whole lot of clowns.When: Saturday, October 27 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.Where: Commercial Drive – exact location TBCCost: FreeMore Info: dustyflowerpotcabaret.com   (Photo Credit: Rio Theatre.)

R.I.P at the Rio

October 28

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice…. On the 30th anniversary of the classic ghostly film, the Rio Theatre is showing a remastered, 4K edition. Bring your squad and relive the tale of the undead newlyweds, brooding teen and unreliable frightmeister. Beetlejuice!When: Sunday, October 28 5:30 p.m.Where: Rio TheatreCost: From $10.50More Info: riotheatre.ca