This weekend, Bathurst will trade its usual village charm for a more sinister atmosphere as it hosts its annual Halloween celebrations. The event, known as the Bathurst Spooky Village, will run from Friday, 30 October, until Saturday, 31 October. During this time, participating businesses will put their own spin on the festivities, offering a range of activities for visitors of all ages. From trick-or-treating and apple-bobbing to themed food and music, there's something for everyone in Bathurst.
Halloween, although now mostly associated with American films and traditions, has its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. This festival marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, dating back over 2 000 years. In South Africa, Halloween has become an integral part of the calendar, with schools, businesses, and neighbourhoods hosting themed parties and community events. Bathurst's celebration is adding a local twist to the spooky season, making it a unique experience for visitors.
One of the main attractions of the weekend is the Horror Night at the Bathurst Agricultural Museum and Ploughman Pub. This event features the Ghost Shed, a haunted experience, and a ghostly ride through the village. Visitors can also look out for the Scary Tractor Uber, which promises to make getting around the village an adventure in itself. With various activities and events taking place throughout the weekend, visitors are in for a thrilling experience.
On Saturday, visitors can participate in a trick-or-treat hunt, while live music by Kurt Stone will be performed at Lara's Eatery from 6.30pm. Falcons Bar and Kitchen will host a dress-up party with a DJ from 7.30pm until late. Children can join in on the trick-or-treat activities at the Bathurst Arms on Friday, and Saturday's programme includes an open mic. These events offer a range of entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
In addition to the main events, various venues around the village will offer themed treats, milkshakes, and Halloween activities. That Coffee Place will feature apple-bobbing, an activity that dates back to old European Halloween traditions and is often associated with courtship and fortune-telling. Visitors can enjoy these activities while taking in the spooky atmosphere of the village.
Horror Night tickets cost R150 per person, with bookings essential. The Ploughman Pub will be open from 11am to 11pm, offering visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. With its unique blend of spooky fun and local charm, Bathurst's Halloween celebration is set to be an unforgettable experience.
Whether visitors arrive in costume, bring their children for trick-or-treating, or simply want to see what happens when a quiet village gets a Halloween makeover, Bathurst is preparing for a suitably spooky end to October. With its range of activities and events, the village is set to become a must-visit destination for those looking for a fun and thrilling Halloween experience.
Key points
- The Bathurst Spooky Village celebrations will feature haunted sheds, creepy food, and costumed characters.
- The event will include a range of activities, such as trick-or-treating, apple-bobbing, and themed food and music.
- Horror Night tickets cost R150 per person, with bookings essential.
