Newbury, a town steeped in history and charm, transformed into a Halloween wonderland this October, with thousands taking part in an array of thrilling experiences that left visitors spellbound. The Halloween Spooktacular, was organised by Newbury Business Improvement District (BID), the not for profit organisation behind Visit Newbury.
The Halloween Spooktacular consisted of three of Newbury’s much anticipated events, the Ghost Town Family Trail, Psycho Path Pub Trail and the Spooktacular Window Competition, providing hauntingly good Halloween fun for all.
One of the most beloved attractions of the Halloween Spooktacular was the Ghost Town Family Trail. This enchanting experience took families on a journey along Newbury’s Bartholomew Street, visiting its many fantastic businesses, including a number independents, for a spot of trick or treating, with the chance to win prizes. The event not only provided terrific half-term entertainment, but also supported businesses with an uplift in trading.
For those looking to celebrate the season after dark, the Psycho Path Pub Trail was a fright night to remember. Participants embarked on a ‘spirited’ journey through some of Newbury’s favourite pubs, accompanied by some scary guests. With fire and angle grinding performances happening live in the Market Place throughout the night, patrons not only quenched their thirst but also their thirst for a thrill. With so many commenting that they are ‘looking forward to next year!’ Newbury BID will be pulling out all the stops once again for 2024.
The Halloween Spooktacular not only got visitors into the spirit of the season, it also inspired Newbury’s businesses, and BID members, to decorate their windows for the Spooktacular window competition, truly transforming the town. Following a public poll that had a whopping 1,300 people cast their votes, The Elephant At The Market came out victorious thanks to their astonishing hand painted window featuring some infamous .
Alison Drummond Newbury BID’s Operations Manager commented, ‘These events are important, they help bring people into Newbury, it’s fantastic to be able to share our vibrant town centre with so many people. Of course these events are great for our businesses too, one of our members commented that this has been one of their best trading periods since Easter!’
As Newbury bids farewell to another Halloween Spooktacular, the town’s residents and visitors are left with cherished memories of a bewitching celebration. With its perfect blend of eerie fun and community spirit, Newbury’s Halloween Spooktacular is sure to return next year, promising even more chills and thrills.
The Newbury BID team are now looking forward to the festive season, putting Newbury on the Christmas destination map this year with the exciting launch of the brand new Christmas in Newbury campaign and Newbury’s famous Christmas Lights Switch On Festival, 18 November. The town centre play host to a huge range of FREE festive events from late night shopping, to entertainment and even a few visits from Santa. It’s time to unwrap Newbury!
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