Spooktacular Newton Returns for Free Halloween Festival on Oct. 25

Surrey’s only free Halloween street festival, Spooktacular Newton, will take place on Saturday, October 25, 2023. This family-friendly event promises a fun-filled day of activities, trick-or-treating, and entertainment along 137 Street (between 74 and 72A Avenue) from 11:00 to 16:00, regardless of weather conditions.

Now in its eighth year, the festival invites attendees to dress in costumes and enjoy a variety of attractions. Highlights include a pumpkin patch, a petting zoo, mini golf, haunted train rides, a dedicated kids’ fun zone, face painting, food trucks, bouncy castles, and dance performances by City Entertainment. Organizers from the Newton Business Improvement Association (BIA) anticipate attendance will exceed 15,000 individuals.

A key feature of this year’s event is the urban pumpkin patch, which offers over 1,000 pumpkins available for picking by donation. All proceeds will benefit the Surrey Food Bank. According to Philip Aguirre, executive director of the Newton BIA, “This year we’re placing special focus on giving back to the community through our official charity partner, Surrey Food Bank.” The Food Bank, which relocated to the Newton area in 2020, will manage the pumpkin patch while collecting monetary and non-perishable food donations.

Aguirre emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “It’s a fantastic way to spotlight the vital work they do—especially at this time of year—while connecting the community in a fun and meaningful way.” The festival is made possible in part by the continued support of Envision Financial, which serves as the presenting sponsor.

Spooktacular Newton has evolved significantly since its inception in 2015, when it began in the underground parking lot of Save-On-Foods. After facing cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic, the event has grown to attract a diverse audience and has become a highlight for local families. “The Newton BIA is dedicated to building community, and by hosting events like Spooktacular, we create spaces where people can connect, support local causes, and feel a true sense of belonging,” Aguirre noted.

Festival attendees should be aware that street closures will be in effect from 06:00 to 20:00 on the day of the event. Organizers encourage visitors to walk or use public transportation, as no parking will be available on-site. A notice on the BIA’s website emphasizes, “We are a car-free event that encourages you to think about how you get around the city. Please obey local parking laws when finding parking on the side streets, and be respectful of the neighbourhood.”

Food vendors this year include Japadog, Kona Ice of Chilliwack, Odd Burger, and Tornado Potato. A wide array of local businesses and organizations will participate, such as BAK’D Cookies, the BC SPCA – Surrey, Costco, and many others, showcasing the community’s vibrant spirit.

Founded in 2014, the Newton BIA represents approximately 530 businesses and property owners in the heart of Surrey, primarily surrounding the areas of 72 Avenue and King George Boulevard. The BIA is governed by a volunteer board of directors and funds its activities through a property tax levy collected by the City of Surrey.

As Spooktacular Newton approaches, it stands as a testament to community resilience and the power of local engagement, making it a must-attend celebration for families this Halloween season.