Halloween 2021 is just around the corner – and fans of the holiday will be pleased to know that it still has all the ghosts and ghouls as previous years. However, social media has given rise to new subcultures eager to celebrate Halloween in their own way, including a community of TikTok witches.
While it may seem an unlikely cultural phenomenon, witchcraft is becoming increasingly popular amongst Gen Zers as platforms like TikTok allow people to build niche communities with ease. The hashtag #witchcraft currently has 6.2 billion views on TikTok and is still growing. To help explain what we can expect from a modern Halloween this year, and to educate Halloween revellers on how to celebrate in the right way, the cultural experts at the language learning app Babbel (www.babbel.com) have explained the cultural phenomenon of WitchTok, the languages that modern witches use, and why Halloween is a significant date in their calendar.
WitchTok – WitchTok is an online community built on TikTok, that revolves around the practice of traditional magic and witchcraft. This includes the use of spells, crystals, charms, and other resources, as well as tarot cards, astrology, and even psychic practices. Many younger witches on the platform have an approach closer to an alternative wellness movement, which concentrates on the use of crystals and affirmations.
Coven – A gathering or community of initiated witches, usually led by a high priest and/or high priestess (a senior witch in a coven who is given a superior status to others). In the world of TikTok, though, covens are less common, as witches tend to work independently. It should be noted that many witch influencers seem to be acting in a similar manner to high priestesses or priests, as they provide guidance, and sometimes even warnings, to other witches on the platform.
Green Witch – The Green Witch embraces nature by drawing on the energies from the earth and untamed things. They rely on plants, flowers and herbs, and call on nature for guidance. Although the concept of a Green Witch in popular culture can be linked back to the Wizard of Oz’s wicked Witch of the West (and her signature green hue), Green Witches in reality, and on WitchTok, are presented as having a healing, nurturing energy. The community of Green Witches on TikTok give tips on how to heal with plants, and how to produce the best homemade offerings.
Herbalist – An herbalist is someone who uses plants for healing. They are not seen as doctors, though some practitioners are also referred to as medical herbalists. The witch community on TikTok discusses “herbal tips” and their uses in witchcraft, with terms that are unique to this community like “grounding,” connecting your personal energy with the earth, and “gathering,”both plants and energy from local sources.
Crystal Witch – Similar to the concept of a Green Witch who finds their connection with nature, a Crystal Witch covers and practices the power of crystal magic and its associated energies. Crystal Witches use chakra cleansing and healing, which is based around the belief that certain crystals vibrate at unique frequencies and can be used to heal or alter your energy. The past few years have seen a surge in recognition for crystals in popular culture thanks to celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Kim Kardashian supporting the idea that crystals can evoke healing and positive energy.
Cosmic Witch – Cosmic Witches focus on how celestial energy, the energy emitted by celestial bodies residing in the spirit world, influences the inner self. Within the TikTok community, Cosmic Witches work with astrology and astronomy, and provide people with tips on practicing astrology, timing their spells and activities with celestial events, and exploring their interest in moon cycles.
Gray Witch – A Gray Witch balances her powers between the magical forces of both black and white magic. Gray magic – in the world of WitchTok – incorporates both benevolent magic and cursing, with the aim of creating more justice in the world. WitchTok for Gray Witches features hexes and promotes the beneficial practices of working with spirits, celestial spirits and ancestors.
Eclectic Witch – Known as “cherry pickers,” Eclectic Witches are drawn to what feels natural and good to them on a personal level. TikTok’s witch community is often seen as being made up of Eclectic Witches, who are collectively trying to normalize conversations surrounding witchcraft and magic, with the goal of exploring how their passions can positively impact the evolution of the planet. WitchTok is a community open to all kinds of witches, which is why many Eclectic Witches find a home within this space.
Baby Witch – Baby Witches are inexperienced witches who, as they learn and grow within their practice, focus first on research and protection work. As WitchTok is an open and welcoming community, many Baby Witches gravitate towards this space as it lacks judgement and promotes open education.
Hex / Curse – A “hex” is a form of magical attack or self-defense, and it can bring about anything from getting someone to keep their distance to great misfortune or physical harm towards the person at which the hex is directed. In 2020, Baby Witches from TikTok attempted to hex the moon because they were angry with the state of the pandemic. Most people did not take this attempt seriously.
Shadow work – Shadow work is a process of inner alchemy in which a witch brings unconscious internal personal traits to the surface, in order to integrate and heal. A witch’s shadow points to where they need to give attention and self-love. The hashtag #ShadowWork on TikTok has a combined view count of over 175 million, with some of these videos showing easy, simple advice on pursuing shadow work, such as, “Write five things you love about yourself.” Other videos delve deeper, analyzing “inner child” issues such as guilt, abandonment, trust and neglect. This helps to address the “dark” or “shadow” side of a witch, to help them become healthier and more whole.
Deity – A god or goddess in witchcraft. Historically, deities referred to a supernatural divine being such as Zeus, Athena, or Aphrodite. On WitchTok, a deity is similar, however the way you can connect with your deity has evolved. WitchTokers have a personal relationship with their deity rather than a collective one, with trends on WitchTok including: How to find my deity; I’m dating my deity; and Working with a deity.
Altar – In non-magical life, an altar refers to a raised structure in a Church, used for prayer or religious rituals. However, in the witch world, an altar is a surface that a witch uses solely for activities such as casting spells, chanting, leaving offerings, and communing with a deity. Many can conjure the image of an altar to mind easily, as these items make regular appearances on popular shows and TV series like Fear Street and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. On WitchTok, altars tend to be less dramatized: typically, they are covered in a symbol-adorned cloth, which protects it from ash, liquids, and candle wax, as well as religious and ritual items like incense, wands, chalices of water, and cauldrons.
Pentacle – A magical amulet inscribed with a five-pointed star that is often placed on an altar. Pentacles are used to both summon spirits and shield the wearer from malevolent forces. Within the TikTok community, witches explore protection pentacles, and can help to decide what pentacles best match your needs, and how you should orient a pentacle based on your desires.
Book of Shadows – A Wiccan’s personal grimoire (pronounced grim-WAHR); a Book of Shadows is used to store information that a witch needs, such as recipes, and instructions for spells, rituals, and hexes. The origins of the Book of Shadows started with Gerald Gardner, the creator of Wicca during the 1940s and has carried on today. It’s common for those in the WitchTok community to give tips and tricks on what is best to put in your Book of Shadows, how to categorize your book, and tips for Baby Witches. WitchTok showcases a diverse range of grimoires, as each one is created and customized based on a witch’s magic, preference, and style.
Closed Practice – A closed practice in our world often relates to a doctor not taking patients, however in the witching world, a closed practice refers to spells or rituals that can only be practiced by people who are descendants of a specific cultural heritage. Aspiring witches and Baby Witches must respect closed practices to avoid appropriating a specific culture or heritage. Closed practices include cleansing with white sage, Voodoo/Hoodoo, and having Pow Wows, which refer back to tribe-specific rituals amongst Indigenous communities in North America. It’s also important to note that terms like “VooDoo” and “Pow Wow” should not be used jokingly, casually or out of context, both within the WitchTok community and beyond, as these are sacred practices that deserve respect in all contexts.
VAHDAM® INDIA Launches Pumpkin Spiced Herbal Tea & Happy Halloween Gift Boxes
To celebrate the new season, VAHDAM®️ India has launched its Happy Halloween occasion tea gift box, featuring its new Pumpkin Spice tea flavour.
The brand has put its own spin on the iconic flavour, with the new Pumpkin Spiced Herbal Tea guaranteed to give that cosy fall feeling.
VAHDAM®’s Pumpkin Spiced Herbal Tea is a blend of sweet pumpkin and traditional spices, with warming ingredients including ginger and cardamom. The tea is light-bodied with sweet notes of pumpkin, alongside woody cinnamon, and earthy turmeric.
The Happy Halloween tea box is a unique gift for those who love the spooky season. It includes autumnal flavours of Sweet Cinnamon Masala Chai, Apple Cinnamon Herbal Tea, Turmeric Spiced Herbal Tea and, of course, the classic Pumpkin Spiced Herbal Tea, all encased in VAHDAM®’s luxury packaging.
The Pumpkin Spice Herbal Tea boxes retail at £9.99 for 15 tea bags whilst the ‘Happy Halloween’ gift box retails at £29.99.
Both the Pumpkin Spiced Herbal Tea & the Happy Halloween gift box are available now on www.vahdam.com and Amazon UK.
Aquafaba Ghost Meringues
140 minutes
8 people
Ingredients:
1 tins worth of drained Mr Organic Chickpea water
1 tsp of cream of tartar
150g of icing sugar
1-2tsp of Mr Orgaic Chocolat Spread
Method:
1. Preheat your oven to 130C.
2. Place the chickpea water into a large mixing bowl. Add the cream of tartar and whisk it with an electric whisk for 5-7 minutes until you get stiff peaks.
3. Slowly add in the icing sugar whilst continuing to whisk. You should end up with a glossy, fluffy mixture.
4. Transfer the aquafaba to a piping bag with a round nozzle and pipe your ghost shapes onto a lined baking tray.
5. Transfer to the oven and bake for 2 hours. Leave the ghosts in the oven to cool down entirely, then remove.
6. Melt 1-2 tsp of Mr Organic chocolate spread and use a toothpick to carefully add eyes and mouths onto your ghosts.
6. Keep in an airtight container and serve for your next Halloween celebrations
Pumpkin Pie
45 mins
6 people
Ingredients:
1 packet of Mr Organic Multigrain Biscuits
5 Medjool Dates, stones removed
2 Tbsp maple syrup
1-2 tsbp water (optional)
425g pumpkin puree
225ml coconut milk
200g brown sugar
1tsp cinnamon ground
1tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp ground nutmeg
A pinch of salt
4 tbsp corn starch
Method:
1. Preheat your oven to 175C.
2.Place the biscuits into a food processor and pulse 4-5 times to break them down roughly. Soak the dates in a little hot water to soften before adding them in. Pour in the maple syrup and process until you get a thick sticky mixture. If it’s too dry, add in a little water.
3. Press the biscuit mix into a greased tart tin and set in the fridge.
4. In a saucepan whisk up all ingredients for the filling over low/medium heat. Heat until the mixture begins to thicken, then cook for another minute whilst stirring and remove from the heat.
5. Pour the mix onto the cake base and bake at 175C for 30 minutes. Allow for the cake to cool down entirely before slicing & enjoy with some whipped coconut cream.
Creamy Pumpkin Risotto
30 mins
3-4 people
Ingredients:
1 Tbsp Mr Organic Rapeseed Oil
1 Tbsp fresh thyme
2 shallots, finely diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
100ml of vegan white wine
150g of pumpkin puree
250g of Mr organic Risotto Rice
300ml of vegetable stock
1 Tbsp nutritional yeast
Salt and pepper to taste
125g shitake mushrooms
1Tsp of Mr Organic Rapeseed Oil
1-2 Tbsp tamari
¼ Tsp black pepper
Method:
1. Heat the rapeseed oil in a large pan & place the thyme inside. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then remove it from the oil and set aside.
2. Fry the shallots for 1 minute, then add in the garlic for 30 secs and reduce the heat. Pour in the wine to deglaze. Add the pumpkin puree & rice and stir to combine. Heat for 2 mins whilst stirring.
3. Start adding the vegetable stock,100ml at a time. Continue to stir slowly and bring to a simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the rice is soft and the risotto creamy.
4. Stir in the nutritional yeast & thyme and season to taste with salt & pepper.
5. Fry the shiitake mushrooms in a little oil for 4-5 minutes until soft. Remove from the heat and stir in the tamari soy sauce. Sprinkle with black pepper & serve on top of the creamy pumpkin risotto.
Credit Line: All recipes shared belong to Mr Organic, to find out more information or recipes ideas, visit https://www.mr-organic.com/
Creep Into Halloween
With Spooktacular Zynga Games
Players Are Invited to Participate in Bewitching In-Game Events Across Several Titles
Zynga Inc. (Nasdaq: ZNGA), a global leader in interactive entertainment, is proud to present Halloween Spooktacular, a selection of new in-game events across four of Zynga’s titles – Empires & Puzzles, Farmville 2: Country Escape, Farmville 2: Tropic Escape, and Puzzle Combat. Players can celebrate the spooky season with chilly challenges, eerie activities and sweet treats to help them get into the Halloween spirit. The events will vary by title and begin to emerge on October 1 before vanishing by November 7.
To view the supporting assets, please click here.
EVENTS
Empires & Puzzles // Return to Morlovia
Oct. 4 – Nov. 7
It’s the season for Return to Morlovia! This recurring Halloween quest in Empires & Puzzles is updated with special rewards and new hero costumes that grant exclusive powers to help players boost their attacks or fortify their defenses. During the event, players can battle or summon seven exclusive characters, including Vlad the Vampire Lord, Francine Frankenstein and Halloween Jack. Returning to the event for a limited time is the Pumpkin Bombs feature that invites players to match pumpkins before they explode. Mystery offers and free treats will be handed out every day of the spooky event.
Empires & Puzzles successfully blends approachable match-3 battles with deeper gameplay elements including hero collection, base building and social alliances. Since its launch in 2017, Empires & Puzzles has reached the #1 grossing games position in over 70 countries on the App Store and over 30 countries on Google Play. Empires & Puzzles is available to download for free on iOS and Android.
FarmVille 2: Country Escape // Help Johnny Creep It Real
Oct. 19 – 31
Something spooky is coming to the farm! Heidi and Johnny play pranks on each other all the time. But this Halloween in FarmVille 2: Country Escape, Johnny is planning something big for Heidi – a playhouse packed with loads of spooktacular scares! Help Heidi traverse the haunted house while completing fangtastic phases to win exclusive rewards such as Golden Gloves. Finish all six stages to win the final farmhand reward – Hazel, the bewitching cat.
FarmVille 2: Country Escape lets players experience the world of farming, friends and fun! Players can raise animals and grow their farm with friends where everyone can trade and share. FarmVille offers a unique experience that lets players customize and build their farms just how they wish while going on incredible adventures to collect rare goods and craft new recipes. FarmVille 2: Country Escape is available as a free download on the App Store and Google Play.
FarmVille 2: Tropic Escape // Enter Mortie’s Haunted Realm
Oct. 21 – 31
Mortie, the young son of the Grim Reaper, is back for the second year in a row. This time, he’ll take players on his version of a haunted house adventure. Mortie doesn’t just live in any old house – haunted houses are so last century. His home is the underworld itself! Players must keep their exploration spells and wits about them as they compete with other participants to see who can explore the farthest reaches of the netherworld with Mortimer Reaper. Players can win Halloween decorations, guides, an undead mermaid and lots of other rewards.
FarmVille 2: Tropic Escape is a part of one of the most beloved farming franchises – FarmVille. Escape to an island getaway filled with adventure, mystery and fun new mini-games in this colorful free-to-play game. FarmVille 2: Tropic Escape is available on the App Store and Google Play.
Puzzle Combat // Nights of Fright
Oct. 1 – 31
Brace yourself for 31 nights of fun and fright. During the month of October, Puzzle Combat will feature a special event comprising 60 playable quest stages packed with valuable rewards like terrifying avatars and unique items to enhance battles or help characters level up. Players can summon five exclusive heroes in the event, including Ichika the Vengeful Spirit, Blaire the New Wave Witch and Strawman. A Trick or Treat gameplay mechanic is also available to unlock special Halloween boosts and attacks.
Launched in April 2021, Puzzle Combat is a mobile match-3 action role-playing game (RPG) where players recruit heroes, build bases and compete in player-vs-player (PvP) battles in a zombie-themed setting. Puzzle Combat is available for iOS and Android as a free download.
ABOUT ZYNGA INC.
Zynga is a global leader in interactive entertainment with a mission to connect the world through games. With massive global reach in more than 175 countries and regions, Zynga has a diverse portfolio of popular game franchises that have been downloaded more than four billion times on mobile including CSR Racing™, Empires & Puzzles™, Hair Challenge™, Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells™, High Heels!™, Merge Dragons!™, Merge Magic!™, Queen Bee™, Toon Blast™, Toy Blast™, Words With Friends™ and Zynga Poker™. With Chartboost, a leading mobile advertising and monetization platform, Zynga is an industry-leading next-generation platform with the ability to optimize programmatic advertising and yields at scale. Founded in 2007, Zynga is headquartered in California with locations in North America, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit www.zynga.com or follow Zynga on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or the Zynga blog.
Give your beans a bang this Bonfire Night by upgrading your bean chilli with three recipes from Mr Organic.
Huddle around the fire with a hearty and delicious, plant-based, bean chilli in any of these three ways, perfect for parties, family gatherings or tucking into on date night. Mr Organic’s recipes are easy to make and fun to tuck in to.
I’ve attached the following recipes with credit lines and high-res images here:
Chilli Quesadillas. Warming chilli sandwiched between a crispy tortilla with oozy plant-based cheese? Make your tongue sparkle with zippy lime and fragrant coriander.
Chilli Loaded Potato Skins. Crunchy sweet potato skins loaded with fiery chilli and dotted with fresh green guacamole is sure to light up your party table this year.
Chilli Bean Topped Notdogs. Grab a hot one and run outside to catch the night’s sky, these are sure to leave your kitchen ablaze with praise!
If you would like any more information or high-res images, please let me know and I’ll be happy to help.
DON’T SCREAM, JUST CLEAN!
TACKLE SOME OF THE TOUGHEST STAINS LEFT OVER FROM THE SCARIEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR
Whether you’ll be dressing up and joining the party, or simply taking the kids trick-or-treating, Halloween is a time for fun, but the messy aftermath can often give more of a fright than the costumes themselves.
October the 31st is the perfect time to be creative and allow your imagination to run wild, from carving out pumpkins to creating the creepiest costumes. However, the fake blood, face paint and other Halloween horrors can often leave some of the scariest stains that can seem impossible to remove.
Cleaning and laundry expert, Dr. Beckmann, have identified the top ten most terrifying stains that you’re likely to experience this spooktacular holiday and the best way to fright back!
TOP TEN HALLOWEEN HORROR STAINS
1. Fake blood
Fake blood is an essential when dressing up on Halloween! However, it can be just as frightful to remove as it can be to look at. Make sure to soak the stain in cold water as soon as possible, before washing in hot water. Rubbing in lemon juice before washing will also help eradicate the stain!
2. Alcohol (Halloween punch)
After last year’s postponed and toned-down celebrations, this year’s Halloween parties are bound to be bigger and better than ever. Alcohol stains can be a horror to get out of your carpets and furniture, especially red wine. If you have an unfortunate spillage, make sure you blot the alcohol with a cloth until the liquid is absorbed, then sponge with cold water. Dr. Beckmann’s Stain Devils Fruit & Drink is great to have in the cupboard, ready and waiting!
3. Candle wax
Candles flickering in the dark are perfect for creating a spook-tacular atmosphere. But watch out for any spilt wax! If there is a spillage, allow the dripped wax to harden, then delicately scrape off excess wax with a blunt knife. Rub white vinegar using a damp cloth into the stain then leave to soak and keep your fingers crossed.
4. Sweets
Trick-or-treaters are inevitable on Halloween night, so here’s a trick to get the stickiness from those delicious sweet treats out of clothes/costumes. Grab an ice cube and place it on the stain for an hour, then scrape off the sweet residue with a blunt knife. Afterwards, wash with Dr. Beckmann’s Stain Remover Oxi-Power Caps and wait as the powerful oxi-enzymes quickly and easily remove the sticky stains, leaving your clothes as good as new.
5. Pumpkin
The statement Halloween item can leave a permanent stain on your clothes if not treated quickly. Blot the stained fabric with a damp cloth then prepare to wash the garment. Use a stain remover to help break apart the stain.
6. Face paint
If the face paint is dry then try and remove any excess paint before scrubbing. Water based paints are easier to remove, simply wash with hot water. Oil based paints are slightly trickier, so use Dr. Beckmann’s Stain Devils Lubricant and Grease to tackle the stains in a speedy 3 minutes!
7. Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the most popular treats given out to eager trick-or-treaters. Throughout the evening there is bound to be chocolate trodden into the carpet or spilt onto the sofa. Be sure to scrape any excess chocolate off the stain, then blot the mark with a damp cloth. Finally apply a stain remover or detergent to the stain and scrub!
8. Make-up
Catching the stain quickly is the key to removing make-up effectively, simply dab at the stain with a damp cloth or a baby wipe, and for any tough stains, use Dr. Beckmann’s Carpet Stain Remover to remove any lasting marks!
9. Lipstick
Lipstick can be a nightmare to remove from almost anywhere! Remove as much excess lipstick off the fabric as possible without smearing it further. Dab the stain with a warm, damp cloth, once this has been done, apply a stain remover and this should do just the trick (or treat)!
10. Caramel from candy apples
Once again try scraping away the excess caramel from the carpet with a blunt knife. Do not rub or wipe with a cloth as the caramel will just sink deeper into the fabric fibres. Dab at the stain with a damp cloth and for any lasting stains, use Dr. Beckmann’s Carpet Stain Remover and that should lift the remaining stain right out!
On the top tips to help everyone have a deep Hallo-clean, Dr. Beckmann spokesperson, Susan Fermor said: “As much as we look forward to this year’s celebrations, Halloween is a holiday filled with potential spills and stains, whether that’s from too much fake blood or waking up to unsightly hairdye stains on your pillow. At Dr. Beckmann, we offer a wide range of products that can help you and your home return back to its pre-Halloween appearance in no time!”
Check out Dr. Beckmann’s product range to help tackle your home’s Halloween horror stains here: https://www.dr-beckmann.co.uk/
Pineapple farmers call on Aussies to ditch the pumpkin for something sweeter
This Halloween, support our Queensland pineapple growers and get behind the latest
Aussie tradition of carving a sweet Spooky Pine.
Pure Gold Pineapples are challenging Aussies to drop the American custom of carving
pumpkins and support the local pineapple industry instead.
Like many Australians, our Queensland pineapple growers have had it tough this year with
extended lockdowns and COVID-19 having a direct impact on their business. To help
support the industry Pure Gold are asking families to swap the pumpkins for pineapples this
Halloween and embrace a fun new Aussie tradition.
To get people behind the cause, Pure Gold Pineapples have released limited edition Spooky
Pines that are available on major supermarket shelves across Australia throughout October.
Best of all, unlike pumpkins, carving pineapples doesn’t leave any waste, simply use the
flesh of the pine in your favourite recipe or enjoy it fresh.
Said Anthony Dobson, General Manager, Tropical Pines, ‘This is our fifth year of Spooky
Pines and we’re thrilled that Aussies have embraced this new tradition that supports local
farmers. We can’t wait to see what spooky creations people come up with this Halloween.’
Spooky pines also offer a great COVID safe Halloween decoration that can be placed
outside and enjoyed from a safe distance.
Remember to stay COVID safe this Halloween and check your local government area’s
website for tips on celebrating safely.
For carving instructions click here: https://youtu.be/i-DmwhfPiW4
Images of spooky pines and pineapple carvings can be found here
For ideas on how to use the flesh of your tasty sweet pineapple, visit our website:
Our farmers would also love to see your spooky creations. Please share any pineapple
lanterns to our Facebook and Instagram pages:
https://www.facebook.com/PureGoldPineapples/
https://www.instagram.com/puregoldpineapples/?hl=en
Happy carving and happy Halloween from the team at Pure Gold.
SEA WITCHES, SPELLS AND SURPRISES TURNS SEA LIFE FROM AQUARIUM TO ASCARIUM
SPOOKTACULAR IN-TANK TRAIL RETURNS TO SEA LIFE FOR HALLOWEEN 2021
WHAT: Immersive in-tank trail, celebrating the creepiest creatures of the deep, coupled with spell casting with a sea witch and a trick or treat surprise
WHERE: SEA LIFE centres across the UK and Ireland
WHEN: from 2nd – 31st October
PRICE: From £14.50 Adult; £10.50 Child
Join in the spooky fun as SEA LIFE centres across the UK and Ireland go from Aquarium to Ascarium this Halloween.
Follow the immersive trail to find the Sea Witch’s missing potion ingredients hidden throughout the depths of the tanks, where you will also discover some of the spookiest creatures of the sea and you might also receive a treat (or trick)!
Not only will there be an excitingly eerie trail for visitors, but guests will also be able to tackle visual activities and have a supernatural snap with the witch’s cauldron.
Visit your local SEA LIFE this October to take part in the Ascarium adventure…if you dare: https://www.visitsealife.com/
To find out what date your local SEA LIFE is running the Spooktacular experience, please view below:
• SEA LIFE Manchester: 2nd – 31st October
• SEA LIFE Weymouth: 9th – 31st October
• SEA LIFE Brighton: 9th – 31st October
• SEA LIFE Scarborough: 9th – 31st October
• SEA LIFE Loch Lomond: 9th – 31st October
• SEA LIFE Birmingham: 9th – 31st October
• SEA LIFE Bray: 9th – 31st October
• SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth: 16th – 31st October
• SEA LIFE Hunstanton: 16th – 31st October
Halloween By Design Returns to Keep Halloween Safe and Spooky with Annual Design Challenge, Spooktacular Charitable Events
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Plus new partnership with We Are Blood and online culture guide to celebrate the season
Austin, Texas — Halloween By Design (HBD), Austin’s annual Halloween fundraising celebration of all things wickedly creative, returns in 2021 encouraging all to “Decorate, Donate and Celebrate” the season. HBD will once again host its online Design Challenge competition asking devilish decorators everywhere to submit photos of their best Halloween décor. Each submission helps to raise funds for two Austin-area nonprofits. This year also brings a partnership with the blood bank of Central Texas, We Are Blood, along with a fundraising event at The Boat restaurant in North Austin.
In addition to these spook-tacular interactive events, the HBD website has compiled a comprehensive resource for trick or treaters to celebrate their best – and safest – Halloween with curated guides to films, music, food, cocktails, decorating tips and events in and around Austin.
• HBD Design Challenge/Oct. 1 — 31: Devilish designers everywhere are asked to submit photos of their best Halloween decor to the HBD Design Challenge. Competitors upload a photo (or more) of their home or office entryway to the contest website. Throughout the month of October, voters will choose their favorite décor. In early November, a grand prize winner will receive a $500 voucher for Southwest Airlines. Second and third place winners will also be rewarded. Each photo entry is $10 and each vote is $1 of which 100% of proceeds go to the Shade Project and To Cure a Rose Foundation. Learn more about contest rules, how to submit photos and how to vote at http://gogophotocontest.com/halloweenbydesign.
• “We Want Your Blood”: Donate, Get Treats/Oct. 16 through Oct. 31: HBD and We Are Blood (WRB), the exclusive provider and protector of Central Texas’ blood supply, have teamed up to transform the three Austin-area blood donation centers into “Dracula’s Lair” this October. WRB relies on the community to maintain a stable blood and platelet supply at 40 regional hospitals and medical centers. There’s no better time to make an appointment, enjoy a walk down Transylvania Avenue, get an HBD treat bag and potentially save a life.
o Donations can be made at any one of three area donor centers on North Lamar, Round Rock and South Austin. Appointments are mandatory. Check locations for hours and days of operation.
o Receive a HBD Halloween treat bag and signature black cauldron for every donation October 29 through 31.
• HBD Night at The Boat/Oct. 22, 7-9pm : Give your Halloween costume a trial run or come as you are to this special evening, Friday, October 22 for a ghoulish good time with live music from Lurleen Ladd, specialty cocktails, giveaway prizes and Cajun and seafood fare from The Boat, 10931 Stonelake Blvd, Austin 78759. A portion of sales will go to The Shade Project and To Cure a Rose Foundation. Pets – especially pets in costume – are welcome.
Halloween by Design is sponsored by Tru-Skin Dermatolgy and Spaces Designed.
Follow Halloween by Design on Facebook and Instagram @halloweenbydesign for fun Halloween tutorials, seasonal decor inspiration, a listing of family-friendly Halloween events in and around Austin and more. #halloweenbydesign #hbdesignchallenge #hbd2021 #atxhalloween #safeandspooky #donateblood
Witchcraft for Good: Ontario Based ‘The Divine Hippie,’ Debuts Brand Refresh to Include Witchcraft Spells
Toronto, Ontario (September 27, 2021) – With over a decade in mediumship, card readings, and witchcraft, Lee John, founded The Divine Hippie to help individuals step into their unique internal power. Today, to better cater to its growing clientele, the company is launching a full brand refresh that will include witchcraft spells to help people find self-love, protection, and a stronger connection with their higher selves.
Witchcraft has been around perhaps just as long as human civilization. Though old-time witchcraft was typically associated with evil forces, Witches today generally practice good magic. Historically, the practice of witchcraft has seen an increase during moments of social turmoil – the same applies today with the COVID-19 pandemic along with its subsequent lockdowns, which resulted in the rise of modern witching activity, driven by a vast number of individuals seeking inner peace, personal empowerment, and spiritual strength.
The Divine Hippie offers energy healing, readings, and witchcraft spells, propelled by the founder’s education in Metaphysical Science from the University of Metaphysics, her mastery in Reiki, and her certification in restorative yoga to help every client heal and become part of a movement that is looking to reconnect the world to its people by helping both prosper. Every service provided by The Divine Hippie is COVID-19 friendly and 100% online.
Lee John, Founder of The Divine Hippie, commented: “My sole purpose with The Divine Hippie is to help individuals find their inner strength and be able to overcome however difficult situation they are in. Via our card readings, reiki sessions, and witchcraft spell services clients can learn how to create a wild, romantic, and magical lives fueled by the spirit within.
“Today, I am immensely happy to be offering our witchcraft spell services to all current clients and new clients – the COVID-19 pandemic has taken an immense toll on everyone’s spirits, and I look forward to helping numerous individuals find a new path to self-love, protection, and a stronger connection with their higher selves.”
The Divine Hippie’s brand refresh went live on September 24th, 2021.
All services of The Divine Hippie are available to local and international clients. To find out more about the brand’s services please visit: www.thedivinehippie.com
HALLOWEEN AT HARD ROCK CAFE® MANCHESTER – IT’LL BE DEAD GOOD
Live bands? Check. Goody bags? Check. Kids eat free? Check.
With live bands, spook-tacular offers and goody bags, Halloween at Hard Rock Cafe Manchester is going to be dead good.
Kicking off the celebrations is tribute band Guns or Roses, who’ll be playing live on Friday October 29th; without doubt THE most entertaining tribute to Guns N’ Roses on the circuit, they’ll be performing all the hits with the style and attitude of the original Hollywood hellraisers, including Paradise City, Sweet Child O’ Mine, It’s So Easy, Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door and Mr Brownstone.
Advance tickets are £10, or for £27.80 get a two-course meal* and reserved seat for the night. If you want to really make like a rock star, upgrade to the £44.95 package – advance ticket, three-course VIP Rockstar meal, welcome cocktail and reserved seating. Oh, and did we mention Happy Hour cocktails to boot?
If that’s not enough of a ‘Thriller’, then head over to Hard Rock on Halloween itself, Sunday October 31st – when the restaurant will be completely decked out in devilish decorations – and the spooky staff will also be dressing up for the occasion. All kids that are dressed up will eat free with a purchase of an adult entrée – what’s more, they’ll get a fang-tastic sweets goody bag as a reward for their fancy dress.
That all sounds frightfully good to us…
To reserve a table, head to www.hardrockcafe.com/location/manchester
Planet Doughnut – creators of the UK’s most decadent doughnuts – is dropping into your orbit this month with limited edition confectionery that’s perfect for spooky celebrations…
Experts in the creation of heavenly handcrafted doughnuts that are out of this world, Planet Doughnut has launched a limited edition collection of Halloween treats to celebrate the spooky season and beyond.
The family-owned brand with bakeries across the UK offers an impressive range of 60 doughnut flavours including vegan and gluten free options to make your mouth water. But the company wanted to do something special for the festive season.
“Autumn is such a great time so we wanted to make the most of it by using our expertise to create something special.” says Co-Founder Samantha McGregor. “Starting with Halloween and moving through to bonfire night and Christmas, we’ve created limited edition flavours and styles that you can order fresh from us for quick delivery for your celebrations.”
Planet Doughnut also offers DIY decoration boxes for fun with family and friends. Choose your favourite flavours and get creative in the kitchen with original or vegan recipes.
Would you be interested in featuring the limited edition flavours and boxes? Or in speaking to founders Duncan and Samantha? We can also provide suggestions and samples for Christmas gift guides and pieces on entertaining over the autumn and winter holidays.
Dracula !!!!! & Frankenstein !!!!! Jimmy Lion creaks the door open to the world of terror just in time for classic horror film fans to go all out this Halloween… from head to toe! jimmylion.com
For its sixth collaboration with Universal Studios, Jimmy Lion creaks the door open to the world of terror just in time for classic horror film fans to go all out this Halloween… from head to toe! The New York founded sock brand thinks outside the box once again, this time to bring you a collection that will have more than one person jumping out of their seat at the cinema! But what makes these 80’s-style socks so original, apart from the bright eye-catching colours set against dark hues, is the two stars from Universal Studios’ monstrous classics: Dracula and Frankenstein– in their most rock n’ roll roles yet!
The collection includes five designs, three of which are dedicated to Dracula (whose aesthetic is inspired by the eponymous 1958 film), and two to Frankenstein. Details like bolts, Frankenstein’s infamous stitches, bats and Dracula’s dreaded fangs paired with turquoise, royal blue, black and blood red help to add a terrifying and unique touch to whichever street-style look this Hallows Eve. And for those who can’t decide which design to choose? Jimmy Lion offers its runaway hit ‘Pack Universal Monsters’, featuring four of the collection’s designs (Dracula – Dark Blue, Dracula Fangs – Turquoise, Frankenstein – Alive Blue and Frankenstein Bolt – Black).
Frightful films and tasty treats:
Halloween weekend at the King Street Townhouse luxury cinema
This Halloween, King Street Townhouse is offering you the ultimate scary movie experience.
From Friday 29th October to Sunday 31st October, the Manchester hotel’s luxury cinema will show a collection of Halloween films – from scary cult classics including IT and a Nightmare on Elm Street, to family favourites Hocus Pocus and Beetlejuice.
Hidden underneath the city’s streets, King Street Townhouse’s boutique screening room is the perfect destination for a ghoulish night in, with spooktacular films fit for all ages.
And, as no cinema trip is complete without delicious snacks, guests will also enjoy Pick’n’Mix, popcorn and a choice of cocktail, mocktail or soft drink as part of the package.
So, take a seat, get cosy and prepare to be spooked!
Screening times
Friday 29th October:
• Beetlejuice: 2pm
• Hocus Pocus: 5pm
• A Nightmare on Elm Street: 8pm
Saturday 30th October:
• Hocus Pocus: 12pm
Sunday 31st October:
• Hocus Pocus: 2pm
• IT: 5pm
• A Nightmare on Elm Street: 8pm
Tickets cost £30*and include a spooky film screening, sweet treats and a cocktail, mocktail or soft drink from the menu.
To book direct, email reservations@kingstreettownhouse.co.uk or call 0161 667 0707 [extension 1]. You can also book via Eventbrite and find out more information here.
*Tickets booked via Eventbrite are subject to an additional booking fee of £2.83.
Krispy Kreme treat their fans with fang-tastic NEW Halloween range!
Doughnut retailer introduces the Halloween range in time for spooky celebrations this October
Krispy Kreme believe that scaring is caring, which is why they have announced an array of haunting doughnuts for the Halloween season – giving us something to sink our teeth into as we prepare for the spooky season! Their new range includes the returning Jack O Lantern favourite and other ghoulish designs such as the Creepy Cobweb, Vampire Bat and Spooky Sprinkles doughnuts. There is also a limited edition Creepy Creations doughnut creating kit, available exclusively online for nationwide delivery.*
The complete range is available for a Limited Time Only from 11th – 31st to buy in-store, at any Krispy Kreme cabinet, added to a Choose Your Own dozen for Click & Collect, or via delivery partners including Deliveroo, Uber Eats and Just Eat, with limited lines available for pre-order online from 4th October.
For Krispy Skremers that love chasing a thrill, this year the brand has partnered with London Dungeon who have been hard at work planning their own Halloween celebrations with the launch of their brand-new show ‘The Surgeon’. This sinister partnership will also include the chance for lucky customers to win a ticket bundle to the London Dungeon by visiting select Krispy Kreme Hot Light Theatre stores.**
For further information on how you can eat, drink and be scary with the new Krispy Kreme Halloween range, please visit www.krispykreme.co.uk and @KrispyKremeUK.
Ghoulish Goings-on at Blenheim
Palace’s Half Term Fright-Fest
Things that go bump in the night – and day – will create a spooky half term experience for all the family at Blenheim Palace next month (October 22nd to October 31st).
The Oxfordshire UNESCO World Heritage Site’s Halloween entertainment includes nerve-jangling activities, spine-chilling statues, scary stories, fiendishly fiery performers, pumpkin carving and ghostly train rides.
Hop on board the mini ghost train for a trip through the ‘Terrifying Tunnel’, come face to face with spooky statues in the Palace and see if you can spot the Beasts of Blenheim, lurking amongst its paintings and artefacts.
For younger visitors there’s also the chance to listen to a selection of spook-tacular scary stories.
There’s daily Frightful Fire performances in the Great Court daily and don’t miss the new Bat Trail in the Walled Garden.
In addition to all the special activities and the opulent interiors of the Palace, there are the autumnal delights of the ‘Capability’ Brown parkland and lots of guided walks to explore the estate.
The Walled Garden Adventure Playground and the Pizza Café will also be open plus there’s a special Halloween-themed Afternoon Tea available in the Orangery Restaurant (pre-booking online).
All daytime Halloween-themed activities are included with a Palace, Park and Gardens admission ticket.
NEW FOR 2021 – Halloween at Blenheim Palace (22nd-31st October from 5.15pm to 10pm)*
As daytime gives way to darkness, an all-new, spooky family-friendly trail will lead visitors from one ghostly space to another – if they dare!
Watch out for flickering flames in the fiendish fire garden, daring fire artists and grinning, glowing pumpkins.
Wind your way through the illuminated haunted woods filled with creepy neon cobwebs, ghastly ghouls, wicked witches, larger-than life spiders and beastly bats. Then discover the Secret Garden filled with more hidden surprises. Could it be a trick of the light or do things really go ‘bump in the night’?
Calm your nerves with a reviving hot toddy or a devilishly decadent hot chocolate.
• The cost of the Halloween at Blenheim Palace trail (£15 adult, £10 children) is a separate charge from the daytime activities. Pre-booking highly recommended.
• For more information on Halloween and October half-term activities, opening times and admission prices and to book for the Halloween at Blenheim Palace trail, visit www.blenheimpalace.com.
NEW & INDULGENT AUTUMN/WINTER SPA PACKAGES
AT FORMBY HALL GOLF RESORT & SPA
…includes Pumpkin Rasul for Halloween
October 2021 – Formby, England, UK – Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa is preparing for the Autumn/Winter season with three new and warming spa days; Pumpkin, Spice & Everything Nice, Winter Wellbeing and Candlelight Retreat.
Pumpkin, Spice & Everything Nice (from £60 per person*)
The new Autumn Rasul at Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa has no tricks – only treats – and leaves you feeling enriched and purified. On arrival, relax and leave your troubles at the door as you change into your luxe robe and slippers. Your experience then begins with an indulgent 30-minute deep cleansing and detoxifying mud steam treatment with your choice of pumpkin pie or toffee apple scent.
Your spa day also includes a special, limited edition Halloween themed afternoon tea with classic scones, cream and jam, delicate finger sandwiches and delectable pastries and cakes infused with Autumnal spices and flavours. In addition:
· Access to the Thermal Heaven Experience (sauna, steam room, heated loungers)
· Two-hour use of the swimming pool and poolside spa facilities
· Time allocated access to a fully equipped gymnasium including fitness classes which can be booked at reception and are inclusive of the package
Pumpkin, Spice & Everything Nice is available from £60 per person. For more information, and to book call the Spa Reservations Team on 01704 875699 or visit formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk/the-spa.
Halloween Afternoon Tea is also available to book separately from the spa day for £18.50 including a glass of fizz. Available over Halloween weekend, Friday 29 to Sunday 31 October from 12:30 – 16:30. Email to book fairwaygrill@formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk
Winter Wellbeing (from £65 per person*)
As the temperature drops and the evenings draw in, there’s no better way to revive than with the Winter Wellbeing package. Be welcomed with a glass of Prosecco on arrival, and an aromatic foot ritual, before choosing one of two, 30-minute treatments; a stress releasing face, shoulder, neck, and scalp massage using warming frankincense aromatherapy oil, or a Caviar Algae face mask with Seaweed massage oils.
Unwind in a fluffy robe and slippers and enjoy two-hour use of the swimming pool and poolside spa facilities, as well as receiving a £5 SPA retail voucher to spend in the SPA shop for purchases over £30.
Winter Wellbeing is available from £65 per person and can be upgraded to include Afternoon Tea. For more information and to book call the Spa Reservations Team on 01704 875699 or visit formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk/the-spa
Candlelight Retreat (from £85 per person*)
Candlelight Retreat provides the complete setting to relax and rejuvenate. On arrival, indulge in a glass of Prosecco in your cosy robe and slippers, before relaxing by candlelight with a warming 20-minute back massage using melting fig oil from Natural Spa Factory massage candles. Your massage is followed by a deeply relaxing 30-minute overnight hydration facial with encapsulated lavender to help ease all of those stresses away. Also included;
· Access to the Thermal Heaven Experience (sauna, steam room, heated loungers)
· Two-hour use of the swimming pool and poolside spa facilities
· Time allocated access to a fully equipped gymnasium including fitness classes which can be booked at reception and are inclusive of the Candlelight Retreat package
· £10 SPA retail voucher to spend in the SPA shop for purchases over £30.
Candlelight Retreat is available from £85 per person and can be upgraded to include Afternoon Tea. For more information and to book call the Spa Reservations Team on 01704 875699 or visit formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk/the-spa
BOO! Chococo’s 100% Plastic-Free
2021 Halloween Range
Boo! It’s Halloween and multi award-winning, Dorset-based, independent, chocolatier Chococo has created a
mouth-watering range ghoulish inspired treats for 2021. All the products are handcrafted in Dorset by a
principled bunch of chocolate lovers, led by founders Claire and Andy Burnet, all passionate about creating
truly delicious chocolates which both taste good and do good. Chococo cares about the impact of its
packaging on the environment and always has done – 100% of their packaging, including their mail order
boxes, is plastic-free and is recyclable, compostable or reusable.
NEW for this year is the Autumn Collection Box of 16 freshly handmade chocolates with NEW limited edition
seasonal flavours that include Toffee Apple, Chilli Tickle Caramel and Tangerine Dream. For a more dramatic
and ghoulish chocolate fix there are the NEW Chocolate Skull Bars and the NEW Chocolate Shimmer Pumpkins &
Spiders.
All Chococo’s chocolate is sustainably sourced, from its Cocoa Horizons chocolate made with 100% sustainably
sourced cocoa, including its bespoke 45% house milk chocolate made with Venezuela origin Sur del Lago
cocoa beans, to Direct and Raisetrade chocolate produced in country of origin by Martinetti Cocoa in
Ecuador, Chocolaterie Robert in Madagascar and Casa Luker in Colombia.
Chococo has been a pioneer in being one of the first UK chocolatiers to make truly fresh chocolates, with no
additives or preservatives, with local ingredients. Championing local, seasonal produce is part of the DNA of
Chococo and over the years they have worked with food and drink producers across the South-West using local
honey, sea salt, preserves, fruits, wines, spirits and cream to craft its mouth-watering and deliciously unique
creations.
Chococo’s passion for flavour has resulted in them winning 100 fine food awards to date including; Great Taste
Awards, International Chocolate Awards and Academy of Chocolate Awards.
@Chococotweet / Chococo Chocolates/ chococochocolates/ www.chococo.co.uk
The 2021 Halloween range:
NEW Autumn Collection Box (£18.00/16 chocolates)
Enjoy these suitably seasonal, limited edition handmade chocolates nestling in a plastic-free box with cover
design inspired by the colours of the autumn Dorset countryside.
This warming selection of truffles and chocolates includes:
• NEW Toffee Apple – White chocolate and tart apple ganache topped with a toffee caramel, infused
with Dorset apple syrup by Liberty Fields orchards in West Dorset.
• NEW Chilli Tickle Caramel – Ancho chilli, vanilla and smoked Dorset sea salt-infused vegan-friendly
caramel. (vf)
• NEW Tangerine Dream – Orange -infused dark chocolate topped with Dorset-made zingy tangerine jelly.
(vf)
• Spiced Pumpkin – Pumpkin puree, cinnamon and nutmeg in a dark chocolate ganache, topped with a
Dorset-made spiced pumpkin jelly.
• Black Garlic Caramel – Caramel with a gentle hint of locally sourced black garlic.
• Spiced Rum Gem – Raisins marinated in Exeter’s Two Drifters dark rum, blended with nutmeg, cinnamon
and clove in a dark chocolate gem. (Silver International Chocolate Award 2020)
• Dorset Sea Salt Caramel – Dorset Sea Salt’s apple oak smoked sea salt in a muscovado caramel in a dark
chocolate gem.
• Melting Milk Truffle – Madagascan vanilla-infused milk chocolate ganache truffle rolled in curly milk
chocolate flakes. (1 Star Gold Great Taste Award 2010)
• Cabin Pressure Gin – Dark chocolate ganache infused with rosemary and Horsham’s Cabin Pressure gin in
a dark chocolate dome. (Silver International Chocolate Award 2019)
• Arbequina & Sea Salt – Spanish Arbequina olive oil and Dorset sea salt in a dark chocolate ganache in a
dark chocolate dome. (Silver Academy of Chocolate Award 2016)
• Conkered Coffee – Dorset Conker Spirit Cold Brew liqueur in a milk and dark chocolate ganache in a
dark chocolate dome topped with a withe chocolate. (1 Star Gold Great Taste Award 2018)
• Golden Crunch Gem – Caramelised white chocolate gem studded with crunchy roasted cocoa nibs,
dusted with shimmer.
• Nutty for It Truffle – Milk Chocolate ganache truffle rolled in chopped roasted hazelnuts.
@Chococotweet / Chococo Chocolates/ chococochocolates/ www.chococo.co.uk
NEW Frida, Golda and Rosa Chocolate Skull Bars (£8.50 each/ 100g)
These handmade skull bars are available in three different styles. They are inspired by The Day of the Dead (El
Dia de Los Muertos) decorations traditionally used to celebrate this special day in Mexico. As they are all handdecorated, each one is unique. Presented in plastic-free packaging of a compostable woodpulp bag tied with
ribbon.
The three to choose from are:
• ‘Frida’ the Milk Chocolate Skull Bar – made from Venezuelan origin 45% milk chocolate, this bar is
decorated with hand-piped Madagascan origin 67% dark chocolate and Colombian white chocolate
patterns.
• ‘Golda’ the Gold Chocolate Skull Bar – a gold caramelized chocolate bar decorated with hand-piped
67% Madagascan dark chocolate and Colombian white chocolate patterns.
• ‘Rosa’ the Vegan Chocolate Skull Bar – made from Madagascan origin 67% dark chocolate this bar is
decorated with hand-piped naturally coloured dark chocolate. This bar is dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
(vf)
NEW Milk, Gold and Dark Chocolate Shimmer Pumpkins & Spiders (£7.50 each/100g)
Let Chococo add some shimmer to your Halloween with these Chocolate Shimmer Pumpkins, filled with little
spooky spiders to keep you on your toes. All lightly hand-dusted with edible shimmer they make the perfect
Halloween gift or self-treat and are sure to be a family favourite! There are three to choose from and they all
come in 100% in plastic-free packaging which is recyclable:
• Milk Chocolate Shimmer Pumpkin & Spiders – made from Venezuelan origin 45% milk chocolate this
pumpkin comes filled with little milk chocolate spooky spiders.
• Gold Chocolate Shimmer Pumpkin with Spiders – this handmade gold caramelised white chocolate
pumpkin has nostalgic sweet caramel flavours. The pumpkin is lightly dusted with edible shimmer and is
filled with gold chocolate spiders waiting to escape from inside!
• Dark Chocolate Shimmer Pumpkin & Spiders – vegan-friendly, this pumpkin is made from Madagascan
origin 67% dark chocolate and filled with dark chocolate spooky spiders.(vf)
OCTOBER HALF TERM AND HALLOWEEN SPOOKS IN SOUTHAMPTON
Southampton has a packed programme of spooky tours and more this October half term. Top suggestions from Visit Southampton (https://visitsouthampton.co.uk) include:
• INTERACT WITH GHOSTLY TALES FROM THE PAST ON AN IMMERSIVE HALLOWEEN EXPERIENCE
The award-winning Southampton Ghost Tour takes on special relevance at Halloween. Spooky stories from Southampton’s eerie past are literally brought to life by actors who take on the parts of the city’s most notorious ghosts. The Halloween tour starts from Tudor House with a ghostly encounter with Sir John Dawtrey, the original owner of Tudor House, before continuing on to Southampton’s historic buildings and a pop-up meet and greet with resident spooks from The Bargate, The Merchants Hall and West Gate. The tour takes place at 6.30pm and 8pm on Saturday 30th October and costs £10 per person. All tours involve some scares but are family-friendly. For more information: www.supernaturaltoursandevents.com
• FROM SPOOKY TOURS TO A TERRIFYING TUDOR WORKSHOP AT THE TUDOR HOUSE AND GARDEN
Southampton’s cultural team is staging a scary peek into Southampton’s past this half term with two interactive family events. As well as venturing into vaults and scaling the town’s ancient walls, on Monday 25 October, families can join a special guided tour which will unearth spooky tales, war, plague, villainy and ghosts. Departing 11am and 2pm in St Michael’s Square outside the Tudor House and Museum, tickets for the 90 minute tour cost £6 per person.
While on Wednesday 27 October – and certain to appeal to fans of Horrible Histories – there’s a Terrifying Tudors’ workshop. As well as learning about the 800 year old history of the Tudor House, each of the two 90 minutes workshops offers a fun mix of gruesome facts, activities and craft designed to bring Tudor times to life. Tickets cost £7.50 per child with accompanying adults free. Sessions at 10.30am and 1pm. http://www.tudorhouseandgarden.com/
• LEARN ARCHERY, CLIMB, KAYAK AND CANOE ON A FAMILY DISCOVERY DAY AT WOODMILL ACTIVITY CENTRE
Located 10 minutes from the centre of Southampton, Woodmill Activity Centre is a woodland oasis with its own lake and access to the River Itchen. On both Saturday and Sunday either side of half term, Woodmill is running ‘Discover Archery’ or ‘Discover Climbing’ sessions. Costing £22 per adult and £12 per child, the discovery sessions cover basic tuition and an introduction to each activity. Plus, making the most of the centre’s waterside location, throughout half term, families can hire kayaks, canoes and family boats equipment hire from £14 per hour. http://woodmill.co.uk/
• THEATRICAL FUN FOR THE TWEENS AND TEENS WITH THE ‘MAGIC GOES WRONG’ SHOW AT THE MAYFLOWER
Multi award-winning Mischief (the team behind The Play That Goes Wrong) in association with magicians Penn & Teller will be staging a new show at Southampton’s Mayflower theatre this half term 26-30 October.
The hilarious ‘Magic Goes Wrong’ centres around a hapless gang of magicians who are staging an evening of grand illusion to raise cash for charity. But as the magic turns to mayhem, accidents spiral out of control and so does their fundraising target. Perfect for half term, young audiences aged 11 years+ will love the dare-devil stunts, jaw-dropping feats and irresistible comedy genius. Tickets from £19.50. For more information and to book: https://www.mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/magic-goes-wrong-2021
• CREATE LANTERNS, CLAY PUMPKINS AND A SPOOKY 3D SCENE AT THE FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS AT THE SOUTHAMPTON CITY ART GALLERY
For an artistic take on Halloween, the Southampton City Art Gallery is staging a series of family art workshops. On Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th October at 10.30am and 1pm there’s a Spooky bunting and Halloween lanterns making workshop. Tickets cost £10 per child with accompanying adults free. While on Thursday 28th October families can get creative with clay and make a decorative pumpkin. Tickets cost £7.50 per person for each 90 minute slot at 10.00am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Finally, on 29th October, there are three x 90 minute Spooky Scenes sessions at 10.00am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm in which families can experiment and create a 3D spooky scene, using mixed media including watercolour and inks. Tickets cost £7.50 per person. For more information and to book visit: www.southamptoncityartgallery.com
• SOLVE THE ESCAPE ROOMS MYSTERY
For a fun wet-weather activity, Elusion, Southampton’s top rated escape room company, is encouraging families to embark on its Cursed Waters mystery solving adventure this half term. The 60-minute session costs £19 per person. For more information and to book: www.elusionrooms.com/cursed-waters
All activities are subject to Government guidance and restrictions being lifted. For news and inspiration about what’s on and what to do in the city www.visitsouthampton.co.uk
WHERE TO STAY: Centrally located beside a quiet leafy park yet close to the marina and Oxford street – lined with restaurants and bars – room2 is Southampton’s most stylish self-catering hometel. A proper home from home with flair, the room features a fully equipped kitchenette with dishwasher, table, sofa and TV. A Lounge Loft room, which sleeps four costs from £135.90 per night. www.room2.com
The Moxy: Industrial chic meets nautical is the theme at Southampton’s Moxy. In a prime central location, the experiential Marriott International hotel brand is close to the West Quay Shopping Centre and the marina. As well as receiving a complimentary Moxy cocktail on arrival, guests can make use of the hotel’s 24/7 self-service food and beverage concept. Prices start from £246 for a two night room-only stay for two adults and one child in a Family Sleeper with a queen and sofa bed arriving on 23 October. Tel: 0238 168 0269 www.marriott.co.uk
TRICK OR TREAT…M&S DOES HALLOWEEN LIKE YOU’VE NEVER SEEN
The nights are drawing in and if (like us) you’re obsessed with all things Halloween, our selection of spooky sweet treats will have you SCREAMING with delight ready for the ghostliest season of all. From this week, our Halloween confectionery is the first of the Halloween range to land in stores, with a frighteningly good selection of sweet treats, both individually wrapped options for those trick-or-treating visitors, and show-stopping gifts for that Halloween gathering you’ve been dying to go to.
We’ve already seen an unprecedented surge in online searches for M&S Halloween gifts, prompting us to go that even earlier with some online Halloween hampers too, with a limited selection available now, for the keenest of spook-seeking customer and more to come in the next few weeks!
Here’s just a few of our TOP PICKS for the perfect Halloween themed sweet indulgence, whether you’re going out, staying in, dressing up or having a PJ party all of your own – we’ve got you covered!
Horror Shock Corn (£5)
A slab of delicious, sweet and salty caramelised popcorn, loaded with chocolate spookiness! Chocolate eyeballs anyone? Haunted Halloween Light Up House (£5)
GET READY to impress your guests! Introducing a LIGHT-UP tin filled with spooky-shaped all-butter shortbread. Doubles up as the perfect window display when all the bics are gone too!
Bleeding Brains (£2)
A pack of 4 chunky white and milk chocolate brains filled with an oozing red salted caramel.
Bogey Buttons (£2)
Ever seen bogey green caramel before? It might look frightful but trust us – these green gooey filled chocolate buttons taste devilishly good!
Colin The Caterpillar Risky Roulette Sweets (£1.65 – 2 for £3)
Will you get naughty or nice Colin? Take a gamble of these fruity gummy sweets, with a mixture of sweet and sour Colins inside.
Tragic Truffles (£5)
A glow in the dark Coffin filled with 4 different types of chocolate truffle – Raspberry Dead Velvet, Mint Zombie Pus, Caramel Witches Brew and Orange Ghoulish Goo.
Image to follow
Spooky Colin The Caterpillar Faces (£2)
Hand decorated white chocolate Mini Colin Faces, with a Halloween twist!
Dragon Eggs (£2)
8 bags of milk chocolate mini dragon eggs with a speckled candy shell.
ONLINE ONLY GIFTING HEROES (WITH MORE TO FOLLOW)…
Halloween Treats Letterbox Gift (£20)
Fancy sending something spooky to a fellow Halloween lover this year? We’ve got all the top Halloween picks inside to slip through the letterbox and delight family and friends!
Halloween Trick or Treat Giftbag (£30)
No need to trick or treat this year, we’ve got a hamper which covers all the bases! Endless tasty treats to get your fangs into…
Halloween Spooky Night In Gift Box (£50)
If getting hands on at Halloween is your thing, then how about this jam-packed kit of everything you could need to make Halloween petrifyingly perfect for all the family! Including Pumpkin carving kits, decorate your own trick or treat buckets, ghoulish gingerbread biscuit kit, Halloween masks and more!
LATE AVAILABILITY: HALLOWEEN HOOTS AND HALF TERM STAYS IN
GREAT YARMOUTH
Great Yarmouth is serving up a host of Halloween fun for October half term ensuring there’s plenty to keep all the family entertained. (www.great-yarmouth.co.uk) The Pleasure Beach’s award-winning Halloween event, Fairground Frights features five nights of fearsome entertainment between 27th October and 31st October 2021. The Park’s 25 fun-filled rides will also be open for day time fun throughout half term week. www.pleasure-beach.co.uk
Also, from 21 October to 6 November (excluding 1 and 2 November) the new Fire on the Water event will see the Venetian Waterways transformed into an immersive night show trail experience with hypnotic water projections, light installations and a fire show. www.outtherearts.org.uk/fire-on-the-water
Audiences will be kept on the edge of their seats with an amazing acrobatics, daring stunts, aerialists and hilarious comedy at The Hippodrome Circus’ Halloween Spooktacular from 22nd to 31st October. https://www.hippodromecircus.co.uk/
Late availability escapes include:
Camping at Clippesby from £157.50
Within the Broads, on the north eastern edge of Greater Yarmouth Clippesby Hall provides award-winning camping and touring facilities. A four night stay for four camping on a woodland all-weather pitch with individual water and drainage costs from £157.50 arriving 26th October and a four night stay for a family of four costs from £165.00 arriving 27th October.(www.clippesbyhall.com, 01493 367800)
A seven night stay for eight from just £184 at Haven’s Wild Duck
Stay at Wild Duck Haven’s only woodland park with on-site facilities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, crazy golf and a supermarket as well as a woodland for easy walks. A seven night “Stay+Play” break for up to eight in a three bedroom Deluxe Caravan costs from £184 arriving on 23rd October and a four night “Stay+Play” break in a three bedroom Standard Caravan sleeping up to six costs £184 arriving on 25th October. www.haven.com, 0333 202 5250
Seafront stay for a family of four for from £210
With rooms overlooking Yarmouth’s North Beach and the Venetian Waterways, Knights Court Hotel has 20 ensuite rooms including several larger family rooms. Its excellent restaurant, overseen by chef patron James Nickerson, is a favourite with guests as well as locals and serves a modern British menu with a strong emphasis on local produce. A two night stay for two adults and one child in a family room costs from £200 including breakfast arriving on 25th October and a two night stay for two adults and two children arriving on 27th October costs from £210 with breakfast. www.knights-court.co.uk Tel: 01493 843089
For information on things to do and see visit: www.great-yarmouth.co.uk
