Eerie Illusions at Burnaby Village Museum

A typical October in Vancouver means the beginning of heavy rains, sweaters, and, for many students, the feeling of vague exhaustion that comes with inching closer toward the middle of the semester. Thankfully, there is something to look forward to at the very end of the month: Halloween. 

For those who celebrate it, Halloween is often treated as a day of free-spirited revelry and nostalgic fun, where people of all ages can indulge in their favourite chocolate bars, watch horror movie marathons and dress up like their favourite iconic characters. A day to treat yourself, so to speak.  

The last two years of stress and shifting restrictions and perpetual uncertainty have perhaps been more frightening than any haunted house. But if COVID-19 has offered any lessons, it is that sometimes joy can come from unexpected places. Just last week, one of these places happened to be Burnaby Village Museum. 

Those who live in Burnaby might know the site for its historical displays and accurately dressed volunteers. However, their weeklong, interactive experience, Eerie Illusions completely transforms the historical village into a festive Halloweentown. From the main street to the chapel, Eerie Illusions showcases several impressive visual displays and intricate pumpkin carvings, with a delightful soundscape of cackling crows, corpse grooms and ghouls following visitors as they walk past the various attractions. 

When we arrived at the place, there were already a fair amount of families milling around, with both giddy children and groups of adults donning assorted costumes. Keeping in mind the current pandemic, the limited time slots and outdoor setting also ensured that there was enough space to still maintain safe distance from other folks enjoying the space.

First, visitors begin by crossing a bridge illuminated by yellow and violet strings of light. Everything after that is a spectacle of vibrant colours---orange, violet, green---which stand out perfectly against the autumn evening’s dark skies.  

Rather than entering each house or store as they normally would, visitors are invited to admire the detailed scenes set up in the windows or on the porches. From scarecrow couples with pumpkins heads to glow in the dark insects, it is evident that the team behind Eerie Illusions took great care in crafting imaginative setups that truly transformed the original space. 

For all of the stations, the audio set up is clear, amusing, and more playful than scary, with the voice actors telling stories of young witches, haunted houses and even corny jokes. In the gazebo, one can even stop to witness a supernatural performance from a musician-less jazz band. Eerie Illusions goes above and beyond through interactive stations, including one where visitors can get their photo taken by a ‘ghost from the past’. 

For folks who want to check out the spectacular exhibits, eat caramel apples and have a night of family-friendly fun, tickets are still available online here.