Top 5 Exceptionally Cool Halloween Events in Mississauga

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Published October 21, 2016 at 3:16 am

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When you think of city-run or endorsed Halloween events, you might think of predominantly kid-oriented festivities that are more appropriate for families.

Fortunately for you, the city actually has a range of incredibly interesting–not to mention enlightening–activities on tap for this Halloween season that are good for residents of all ages.

Some of the events are somber (such as Death Becomes Us) and others are incredibly interesting (the screening of the House of the Devil). Other activities will allow you to immerse yourself in Mississauga’s rich (and sometimes spooky) heritage and history.

So, read on for a breakdown of genuinely fabulous Halloween-themed events that you must check out.5) From Parlor to Grave: 1884

If you’ve read a book or watched a film set in the Victorian era, you’ve likely picked up on the somber and sometimes tragic undercurrents that frame an era famous for both progress and upheaval. If you’re interested in a little roleplay, you can head to the Benares Historic House (1507 Clarkson Rd. N.) for a Victorian funeral re-enactment and graveyard procession. According to organizers, you can “wear black and dark purple and let out your inner zombie.

This event is free and kicks off at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 23. It is only recommended for children who are 10 years of age and older.4) Zombie Community Daytime Ride

If you’re into zombies (I know a lot of you are), you might be interested in participating in a Zombie Community Daytime Ride through Streetsville Cemetery (229 Queen St. S.). This event is free, but you must register at Mississaugacycling.ca. This event is good for people of all ages and starts at 1:00 p.m. It’ll take place on Saturday, Oct. 29. Bike helmets will be mandatory.3)  Pride in Our Past, Faith in Our Future: Exploring Cultural Stories of Mississauga’s Silent City

Although death is a morbid (and frightening) topic, it is an important one because, no matter how hard we try, we’ll never escape it (it’s coming for you, but hopefully not anytime soon). If you want to confront the reality of death this weekend, you can go on a tour organized by urban planner Nicole Hanson that focuses on the growing importance of forming diverse and accessible for spaces for death and memorialization in Mississauga.

This tour will take place in the Streetsville Cemetery (786 Bristol Rd. W.) on Saturday, Oct. 22 and will start at 1:00 p.m. It is not recommended for children under 10. Admission is free.2) Before I Die: Community Activated Public Chalkboard Wall

We’ve talked a lot about death today, but don’t get too sad about it–you have a lot of life left to live. If you have a “bucket list,” you can share it with others by immortalizing your goals and ambitions in a public place. According to the city, Before I Do is a global art project that invites people to reflect on their lives and share their personal aspiration in public spaces.

If you want to participate in this, you can do so at the Bradley Museum from now until Nov. 20. You can share your thoughts Wednesday – Sunday, noon to 4:00 p.m.

1) House of the Devil: The Film that Launched the Horror Genre

Did you know that a 1896 film spawned the notorious and rapidly evolving horror genre we know (and maybe love?) today? The House of the Devil, directed by Georges Méliès, is considered to be the first silent horror film. With a very short three-minute running time, this classic gem won’t take up too much of your time, but it’ll certainly entertain you. You can catch it at the Benares Visitor Centre (1507 Clarkson Rd. N.) and it’s suitable for viewers of all ages. Admission is free and you can watch Wednesday-Sunday between noon and 4:00 p.m. from now until Nov. 20

For more info on other Halloween events, click here.

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