Strathmore Stampede changing up Halloween events this year

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Strathmore and District Agricultural Society is changing up how its annual Halloween event will be hosted this year, consisting of two unique events instead of the regular haunted houses.

“We are calling it ‘Stampede Fright Night Lite,’ just because it is a new spin on our usual Stampede Fright Night. We are not doing any Halloween Haunts this year, but we are going to do two really great parties instead,” said Haley Hawes, events coordinator. “On Oct. 25, we are going to do what we are calling a ‘Boo Bash,’ and it is our kids party. We are going to have a live DJ; there will be dancing, games, pumpkin carving; we are doing a costume contest as well, and then Domino’s is going to provide a piece of pizza to everyone as well with their ticket.”

On the following day, there will be an 18+, adult only party, similarly hosted with a DJ, dancing, drinks, pizza, and a costume contest. Happy Hour will be operating from 6-8 pm that night for those who wish to also partake in a few drinks. 

Hawes explained the goal of switching up the regular programming is to try something new this year for the community and see how it goes. 

“So far, so good; we have posted a little bit about it on our social medias and our website … but we are really going to start advertising a little bit more in the weeks to come. We are just kind of letting people settle in to back to school and things like that,” she said. “We are looking for volunteers already. On our website, there is a tab called ‘Volunteer,’ and underneath it, it says ‘Fright Night,’ and we would love a community to get involved. If individuals are looking to help out or if there is groups such as hockey teams or community groups like that, we would love any help we can get.”

Thus far, the overall plan for the Strathmore Stampede team is to return to the regularly scheduled Halloween Haunts next year, though they are open to evaluating the success of the events planned this year following their operation. 

Regarding the Boo Bash, tickets will be $10 for kids and adults will get in for free in order for the whole family to be able to attend. For the Halloween Bash the following night for the adults, tickets will be $25 to get in. 

More information about the two parties is available through the Strathmore Stampede website and social media pages.