Hallowe’en is just around the corner. And what better place to embrace the spirit of Hallowe’en than against the colourful backdrop of a town renowned for its rich history and legendary characters! But what is the history behind this eerie celebration and the spell-binding sagas of Niagara-on-the-Lake?
AN ANCIENT TRADITION
The Hallowe’en tradition originated with an ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced “sow-win”) when people lit bonfires to welcome the harvest and usher in the “dark half of the year.” They also wore costumes to scare off roaming ghosts and spirits who, they believed, came back to Earth to haunt anyone who left their homes.
In the eighth century, Pope Gregory designated November 1 as All Saints Day to honour all saints. The evening before became known as All Hallows Eve, and later Hallowe’en — a fun-filled day of trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns out of pumpkins, festive gatherings and donning costumes.
WHAT’S BEHIND THIS FASCINATION?
Watching scary movies or hearing bone-chilling stories triggers our fight-or-flight response, which also comes with a boost in adrenaline, endorphins and dopamine. These natural “feel-good” hormones are released whenever we take part in pleasurable activities and promote our well-being.
The brain then processes our surroundings and concludes the experience is not a genuine threat. This confirmation of personal safety is one reason fans gravitate to scary entertainment.
According to scientific findings, horror movies and stories may also help us to plan for worst-case scenarios or to practise coping strategies and control.
NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE HAUNTS
Historic Niagara-on-the-Lake, “Canada’s Prettiest Town,” has its share of dark stories involving death, disappearances, daredevils and uprisings based on real historical events. So, what illusive residents are still lurking in the shadows of one of Canada’s most haunted towns?
Prepare yourself for heart-pounding excitement when you sign up for a spine-tingling Ghost Walk of Old Town or Fort George for an otherworldly adventure brimming with thrills, treats and hair-raising tales.
Of course, there are many public places and attractions where you can delve into mysterious secrets and unearth fascinating legends on your own.
For instance, dining at the Prince of Wales, the Pillar and Post and the Olde Angel Inn could add a whole new dimension to a culinary experience.
Discover the town’s captivating history brought to life at the NOTL Museum.
Theatre ghosts at the Royal George love terrifying guests and performers alike.
Drop by the Apothecary on Queen Street where a gentleman dressed in 19th-century attire may appear.
Or head down to the lakefront Queen’s Royal Park Gazebo where the haunting wail of a grieving woman in despair may break the silence.
And later, as you fluff up your pillow and cozy up to your partner in anticipation of a restful night’s sleep at your charming accommodation, you’re excused should you find yourself wondering if an unwelcome guest is sharing your quarters.
PLAN AHEAD
Whether Hallowe’en is on your radar or not, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a host of ways to release those pleasurable hormones:
October 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 & 31: Ghost Tours of Fort George
October 16: A Captivating Murder Mystery at The Irish Harp
October 19: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 19: Nightmare Before Hallowe’en at Colaneri Estate Winery
October 20: Wine Tasting & Paint Experience, Konzelmann Estate Winery
October 23: Brave Hearts Gala
October 25, 26 & 27: Off the Walls Art Sale Fundraiser at Riverbrink
October 26: Harvest Haunt at Queenston Mile Winery
October 27: 3rd Annual East Coast Kitchen Party
December 6: Candlelight Stroll
December 6 & 7: Rotary Club House Tour
December 14: Christmas Parade
January 10 -26: Niagara IceWine Festival
June 7 & 8: Second Annual NOTL Studio Tour
HELPFUL TIPS
Lost & Found: Did you lose something while you were in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Contact the lost and found centre at the NOTL Chamber of Commerce located at 26 Queen Street in the lower level of the building. Or call 1-905-468-1950 or email tourism@niagaraonthelake.com for more information.
Drive Safely: As part of Niagara Region’s Vision Zero program, automated speed enforcement cameras have been installed in school zones. Please pay attention to the speed limits posted throughout Niagara-on-the-Lake as more cameras are planned.
Metered Parking: General information on metered parking in Niagara-on-the-Lake is found here. Your STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts feature complimentary on-site parking for guests and are happy to advise you on where to park for free in and around Old Town.
Accessible Parking: Several accessible parking spaces are located throughout the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, both on the street and in municipal parking lots.
All vehicles parking in the accessible zone must display an original and current accessible permit. Any vehicle found parked in an accessible zone without the valid accessible permit will be ticketed. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has approved the use of accessible parking permits in the following areas only:
- Designated accessible zones/spaces; and
- At any meter free of charge, including municipal lots governed by pay-and-display parking meters. In these locations, a pay-and-display permit is not required if the vehicle is displaying a valid accessible permit.