Toddlers are set to take over Sapperton for some Halloween fun.
Coun. Tasha Henderson and Katerina Tsangarakis-Senior, owner of Zesty Lemon Clothing Co., are once again organizing and hosting Trick-or-Treat East Columbia Street, giving youngsters a chance to collect treats from businesses in Sapperton. It is happening on Halloween Day (Thursday, Oct. 31) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“I am delighted to be organizing this event again. Not only were we all charmed by toddlers in costumes taking over Sapperton last year, but we brought in hundreds of people to visit and explore the unique and special businesses we have along East Columbia; giving people a chance to really engage with the owners and staff with no commitment,” Henderson said. “We all need more opportunities for community-building like this, where people can chat with their neighbours, swoon over cute babies, meet business owners, and really feel a sense of belonging in the city.”
As one of the event’s organizers and as a business owner, Tsangarakis-Senior said the event ius close to her heart.
“I live just a block away and the Halloween memories from my childhood inspire me to create similar experiences for the kids in this community, including my own,” she said. “Local residents, even those without kids, have told me how much they love seeing the streets so lovely. It’s a wonderful way for families and businesses to come together, fostering connection and creating lasting memories.”
In addition to enjoying an afternoon of trick or treating at last year’s inaugural events, families told the organizers Trick or Treat East Columbia Street helped them discover and support shops and businesses in the Sapperton business district.
Last year’s inaugural event saw families flock to Sapperton a day of trick or treating, when participating businesses handed out treats to the youngsters from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – giving older kids a chance to drop by after school.
“It was amazing,” one business told the organizers after the event. “We had a huge turnout, and the adults loved that we were able to give out during the day.”
Participating businesses will have an event poster displayed in their store window. A list of participating businesses, route maps and updates will also be available on the @TrickOrTreatEAstColumbiaStreet pages on Facebook and Instagram.
