A new indoor Halloween event in Chilliwack will be wheelchair friendly, have a quiet space, and won't be scary.
Chilliwack Restorative Justice and Youth Advocacy is hosting the Accessible Halloween Village on Oct. 31 to help raise funds for its school programs.
"There will not be scary rooms. This is going to be a safe, comfortable place for kids and for parents. It's going to be dry, it's going to be accessible," said Steve Roukema, executive director of restorative justice.
They're partnering with Central Elementary Community School, which is where the event will take place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Halloween.
"It's nice to just come to a familiar spot – for the kiddos and for our families – and also welcome other people to see what greatness Central has to offer," said principal Donna Arnold.
It's structured in a way that people will flow through the school corridors, into the gym, and then outside again.
Kids will enter on the main floor and trick-or-treat through the hallway where there will be various organizations handing out candy. After that, children can head to the gym for carnival games, and then go outside to a covered area where food trucks will be set up.
There will also be a sensory room for kids who need a quiet space.
"This is not necessarily to replace what you're doing on Halloween, it's an addition to what you're going to do on Halloween. It's another trick-or-treating destination," Roukema said.
One of the reasons for the event is to make sure those who have mobility and sensory issues feel welcome and accepted, but the event is open to everyone.
"That's what restorative justice is all about, it's about inclusivity," he added.
Funds raised will provide resources for restorative justice initiatives that aim to repair harm, prevent conflicts, and promote healing and reconciliation. The restorative justice programs are hosted in more than 20 schools in the district.
The Accessible Halloween Village is 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31 at Central Elementary Community School (9435 Young Rd.). There's a costume contest at 6 p.m., plus a 50/50 and raffle draws.
Tickets are $6.66 in advance online and those who buy tickets on or before Oct. 14 will be entered into a draw to win a bike valued at $200. Tickets at the door are $5. Kids 17 and under require adult supervision (adult passes are free).
Online tickets are available at eventbrite.ca/e/accessible-halloween-village-tickets-1013941284677.
For more, or to volunteer at this event or become a sponsor, go to restoringjustice.ca/halloweenvillage.
