Warwick's Halloween week hailed as 'biggest and best-received' so far

Warwick Town Council organised another week of Halloween themed events and activities, which included free pumpkins, a pumpkin trail, Lush bath bomb workshops and crafting sessions.

Many residents and visitors attended the various events and activities across the town during the week – and the council said more than 500 pumpkins were given away, hundreds of trail maps were distributed and 100 bath bombs were made.

The Trick or Treat Twilight Market on Friday (October 30) was also hailed a success, featuring stalls, entertainment, as well as fire breathers, stilt walkers and the Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus.

Speaking about the market, the Mayor of Warwick Cllr Simon Pargeter, said: “I was delighted to attend an incredible evening at Warwick’s Trick or Treat Twilight Market, where thousands of families came out to celebrate the eve of Halloween, filling our town centre with spooky magic, laughter and a fantastic community spirit.

“From the amazing fire breathers and magical performances to our brilliant Morris dancers, stilt walkers and the fantastic Hocus Pocus, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

“It was wonderful to see so many families coming together, enjoying the entertainment and supporting everything Warwick has to offer.

“The atmosphere was fantastic, and the turnout really demonstrated how much people value our town centre, local businesses and community events.

“As Mayor, I am incredibly proud of the community spirit we have here in Warwick.

“A huge thank you to everyone who came along, all our fantastic performers, traders and local businesses, and especially our dedicated Warwick Town Council officers whose hard work helped make the evening such a tremendous success.”

A Haunted Windows Competition was also held during the week, which invited businesses to get into the Halloween spirit by decorating their shop windows.

A public vote was held on Warwick Town Council’s Facebook page and The Happy Witch in Smith Street was named the winner.

Reflecting on how the week went, Warwick town centre manager Kelly Scott said: “What a wonderful week of Halloween and half-term activities here in Warwick.

“We first came up with this idea two years ago and built on it each year, with this year by far the biggest and best-received we’ve had.

“It was wonderful to see thousands of families pouring into the town centre right across the week, enjoying activities, entertainment and more.

“The aim of events like these was always to benefit everyone in the town.

“Not only have locals and visitors had the chance to enjoy affordable fun, but the appeal of a packed programme of events has brought more footfall into Warwick, benefiting businesses, tourist attractions, heritage sites and more.

“It’s helped put Warwick on the map as a great destination for spooky season, and a wonderful place to visit all year round.

“Each year we learn more about what works best, and we can take that to events and occasions throughout the year, ensuring we keep on reminding people that Warwick is an interesting, thriving town that’s well worth a visit.”

She added: “A huge thank you to everyone who played a part in making this week such a success.

“This includes: the team at Warwick Town Council and Warwick Visitor Information Centre, The Mayor of Warwick, Warwick Town Crier, CJ's Events Warwickshire, The Pumpkin Patch at Wolvey, P & R Horsedrawn Carriages, Chase Meadow Crafting Tree, The Teenage Market, LUSH, The Weird Walk of Warwick, Warwickshire Gin Company, PSL Distribution Ltd, Angus Baskerville Magic, Plum Jerkum Morris Dancers, Ellen Manning / empr, Tony Hemming, Bowtie Productions, Alan Morris & Geoff.

“Thank you all for your time, enthusiasm, support and creativity. We couldn’t do it without you.”