Stockport's Merseyday of the Dead celebration is returning for Halloween, promising a host of tricks, treats and spooky surprises for families. The free event, which follows a big turnout at its debut last year, will take over the Merseyway shopping centre and the Redrock development on Saturday, October 24.
Daytime activities at Merseyway
From 12pm to 3pm, the family event at Merseyway will feature a free spooky trail, creepy craft sessions, sugar skull glitter tattoo stations and live performances from acts including the Three Amigos.
From 5pm, the festivities move to Redrock for an evening of safe trick-or-treating, Mexican folk dancing, interactive games, slime making and a 'Dance with the Spirits' session. The event will conclude with a Day of the Dead parade finale.
Dress to impress
Last year's inaugural event saw attendees dress up in Halloween costumes such as spooky skeletons and wicked witches, and families are being encouraged once again to dress to impress.
Victoria Nichol, Merseyway Centre Manager, said: "Last year's Merseyday of the Dead was such a hit that we simply couldn't let it rest in peace, so we're bringing it back for part two."
"We're really looking forward to welcoming families back to Merseyway and Redrock for another Halloween celebration, with plenty of things to see, do and get involved in. From the Skullstock trail and glitter makeovers to slime, dancing and the Deadrock parade, there's something to keep little witches, wizards, skeletons and superheroes entertained throughout the day."
"And we really want families to get into the spirit of it this year, so bring out your best costumes! We want to see Stockport full of ghosts, ghouls, skeletons, and everything in between. It's the perfect excuse to go all out and make a day of it."
"We also want everyone to have a brilliant but safe Halloween. The safe trick-or-treat trail is always incredibly popular over at Redrock, so we're encouraging families to arrive early."
Other Halloween events nearby
Attendees have been advised that while the event is free, all activities will be subject to availability and it is recommended to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
The Stockport event is not the only Halloween celebration in and near Greater Manchester this year. The Big Wheel is returning to the Trafford Centre for the October Half Term as part of its Halloween Fair.
Kenyon Hall Farm, in Warrington and close to the border with Wigan, will also host its own pumpkin festival with themed games, family fun and over 50 varieties of pumpkins to pick from.
A Bury garden centre is also hosting an indoor pumpkin patch and children's trail, open until Halloween. It will include a Pumpkin Patch Magic School where children can join The Marquis of Magic for a one-hour workshop learning tricks, performing new skills and taking home their own magic set.
