ELORA – The wait is over: Monster Month is here.
This October, Elora and Centre Wellington will once again transform into a playground of art, imagination and Halloween-inspired fun, officials say.
Visitors from across southern Ontario are invited to wander among the glowing creatures of Tim Murton’s Twilight Zoo, while enjoying a month packed with spine-tingling experiences and family-friendly festivities.
From ghost walks and lantern tours to magicians, murder mystery dinners, haunted houses, guided tours, and a night in the museum, the lineup of activities grows larger each year.
This year more than 20 community partners have joined together to present dozens of events for every age and interest.
Full details can be found at monstermonth.ca.
The Awakening, Oct. 3
Monster Month officially begins with The Awakening at the Elora Green Space.
As twilight falls, expect mist, music, light, dance, dramedy – and the dramatic release of the Spirit of Monster Month itself.
Led by the mischievous Prince Pilkington and his servant Nicholtwp, the evening promises a theatrical spectacle of monstrous proportions.
Guests are encouraged to dress spooky, silly or spectacular to embrace the “funereal” celebration, officials say.
Special guest Tim Murton, creator of the Twilight Zoo, will be on hand to answer for the strange and wondrous creatures lurking around town.
“The monsters want to be out,” said Sensational Elora co-chair Barb Lee, adding this event kicks off “a huge array of the things that are happening this month.”
Pumpkin Day, Oct. 11
Celebrate autumn’s most beloved symbol at Pumpkin Day at the Wellington County Museum and Archives. This free family event features seasonal activities and entertainment for children of all ages.
Visitors are encouraged to bring cash or food donations to support the Centre Wellington Food Bank.
This is the second year Pumpkin Day will be held at the museum, which Lee said is more central, has lots of parking and is accessible.
“Despite the name Sensational Elora, we want to be central for all of Centre Wellington,” she said.
Monster March, Oct. 18
Grab your costumes (and your pets) and join the community for the Monster March parade. Beginning at 1 MacDonald Square at 6:30pm (assembly at 6pm), this free event is open to all ages.
Highlights include:
– Wicked Wagon Contest: decorate your wagon or stroller in spooky style to win one of three top prizes;
– Food drive: volunteers from The Sparrow’s Nest will collect donations along the route to benefit the Centre Wellington Food Bank;
– the march ends with a festive “Mini-Mash” in Bissell Park for participants. Rain or shine, the monsters will march.
“This event has grown enormously,” Lee said. “It’s fabulous, fun and safe.”
Join the Fun
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, eerie evenings, or community celebrations, Monster Month offers something for everyone, officials say.
“Immerse yourself in a frightfully fun October—only in Elora and Centre Wellington!”
For the full schedule of events, visit monstermonth.ca.
