Two local movers and shakers are joining forces to spread a little Halloween spirit.
Coun. Tasha Henderson and Katrina Tsangarakis, owner of Zesty Lemon Clothing Co. in Sapperton, have organized a daytime trick-or-treating event for kids under five in the Sapperton business district. In addition, school-aged kids are invited to pop in right after school to get some treats.
“We know that many kids have early bedtimes or get overwhelmed with the evening rush, but are still excited to go trick-or-treating,” said Henderson, a Sapperton resident. “This is a slow-paced, safe way for them to take part. And support Sapperton businesses while they do!”
Henderson said Tsangarakis opened the Zesty Lemon Clothing Co in Sapperton around the same time she was elected to city council. Since then, they’ve been brainstorming ideas to energize the retail district and to continue building community in Sapperton.
“This will hopefully be the first event of many,” Henderson said.
The city councillor said Tsangarakis came up with the idea of daytime trick-or-treating, noting that most shopping centres don’t start their daytime events until after school on Halloween. Tsangarakis, a big Halloween fan, told Henderson she had always been looking for options for her kids when they were young.
“We can’t wait for East Columbia Street to be taken over by giddy toddlers, preschoolers, and older kids on the walk home from school; and for local businesses to have an opportunity to introduce themselves to new audiences from across the city,” Henderson said. “Caregivers should get excited to check out the amazing businesses! Yes, we have a lot of exceptional health-related businesses in the neighbourhood, but we also have great restaurants, retail stores, and specialty shops you can’t find anywhere else.”
Trick or Treat East Columbia Street is on Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Participating businesses will have a colourful poster displayed in their window. You can also can find a list of participating business, route maps and update on Facebook and Instagram at @trickortreateastcolumbiastreet.
