It’s the weekend before Halloween, Vancouver! And that can only mean one thing- we’re about to completely shift into spooky mode. Why do we love Halloween so much? It’s a good question, and one we’re not quite sure we know the answer to. What we do know is that we want to share the spirit with you.

Here are the best things to do in Vancouver this weekend.

Watch a Halloween classic

Shoutout to the Rio Theatre for consistently screening some of the best Halloween movies of all time. Whether you want to watch a true classic (The Bride of Frankenstein) or a modern marvel (The Conjuring), the Rio has got you covered.

When: Showtimes throughout October
Where: 1660 East Broadway
Cost: $15

Get yourself a costume

Still looking for a Halloween costume this year? Of course, everybody you know will be trying to get their hands on a Squid Game-esque fit, but that’s just the tip of the 2021 costume iceberg. If you need a little more inspiration, we’ve rounded up some of the best options.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

Visit a spooky space

Vancouver might not be that old as a city, but we’ve still got some local haunted buildings! If you want some truly immersive spookiness, then check out our roundup of some of the most (reportedly) haunted buildings in and around Vancouver.

Where: Click the link above for more info

Celebrate the Night 2021

Craving some Halloween fireworks? You can’t set em off in your backyard anymore, but you can still enjoy a show! Maple Ridge is hosting it’s annual Celebrate the Night event this weekend, with live entertainment, food trucks, and art installations. And of course, fireworks to cap it off.

When: Friday, October 22nd at 8PM
Where: 11944 Haney Place, Maple Ridge
Cost: Free to attend!

Edgemont Haunt

First up, we have a beloved local haunted house! After taking a hiatus last year, North Van’s Edgemont Haunt is back in all its glory this year! What’s more, it’s all going towards the BC Professional Firefighters’ Burn Fund, which is a great way to give back as well.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 3414 Emerald Drive, North Vancouver
Cost: Admission by donation to the BC Professional Firefighters’ Burn Fund

Eerie Illusions at Burnaby Village Museum

Time for an outdoor option for the brave. Brand new for this year, Eerie Illusions will transform the Burnaby Village Museum using state-of-the-art projections, lights, and sounds. Historic villages are spooky enough on their own after-dark, so we think this will be worthwhile for all ages.

When: Starts Friday, October 22nd
Where: 6501 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Cost: $10 for GA, $5 for children

Vancouver Aquarium

Of all places, the Vancouver Aquarium is hosting some spooky events! Fin-Tastic Fall Days includes Halloween-themed treats and showings of the new SCOOB! animated movie in 4D. It’s fun for the whole family, that’s for sure!

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 845 Avison Way
Cost: $42 for GA

Bloedel Conservatory

Time for some non-Halloween picks. If the rain is already getting you down, then this is a great option. The Bloedel Conservatory is filled to the brim with tropical plants and birds, and is guaranteed to make any rainy day feel a lot sunnier.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 4600 Cambie Street
Cost: $7.05

Vancouver Art Book Fair

Did you enjoy our roundup of the best bookstores in Vancouver? Then this pick is for you. The cult-favourite Vancouver Art Book Fair is back this week, with tons of exhibitors, events, and of course, amazing and hard-to-find books for sale. Pick something up for the coffee table!

When: On throughout the weekend
Where: Online

Catch the end of the Lind Prize exhibition

This BC-focused art exhibition is wrapping up this weekend. Showcasing the works of 17 emerging artists around the province, with a focus on photography, film, and video installations. Plus, the gallery is a great way to take in the city.

When: Ends Sunday, October 24th
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: By donation

That’s our roundup for this weekend, Vancouver! Have fun and stay safe out there.