Every year, Central Saanich resident Dan Cawsey transforms his yard into a spooky Halloween display. But he doesn’t just do it for his personal enjoyment or that of others, he also collects food and money donations for the Sidney Lions food bank.
Cawsey began the extensive display three years ago and each year he adds a little bit more to it. This year, he’s added what he calls “Sparky”, a creepy looking interactive electric chair display.
“It’s just sort of steadily grown over the years,” Cawsey explained. “I collect things for it all year round, mostly recycled items I find, and it’s just been really neat to build something new each year.”
With his house becoming known for the chilling display and seeing over 500 people visit it over a few days around Halloween, Cawsey also decided to make his haunted yard a destination for giving back.
“Each year we put out bins and collect donations for the food bank,” he said. “Last year we raised over $400 and two big bins of (non-perishable) food.”
And so with his new electric chair feature this year, Cawsey hopes to again attract and large crowd and collect donations.
“It would be nice to get the same amount (of donations) as last year or more,” he said hopefully. “People in our community have been so supportive and I’m looking forward to it again this year.”
Cawsey’s display can be seen at 7775 Bruce Gordon Place in Central Saanich, Oct. 29 through 31 from 7 to 10 p.m.
Other Halloween events on the Peninsula:
Central Sannich Lions Club Halloween
The Central Saanich Lions are putting on a Halloween event at Centennial Park on Oct. 31 from 5:30 p.m. Hot dogs, popcorn, hot chocolate and coffee will be by donation with all proceeds returning to support Lions Club charities. The bonfire is lit at 7:30 p.m. and will be followed by the annual fireworks display.
North Saanich Fire Department Bonfire
Even though the new Wain Road firehall construction will take up a small portion of the usual bonfire area, the North Saanich Fire Department is still ready to ignite its annual bonfire and fireworks display on Oct. 31.
The event, which will include hot dogs and drinks, kicks off around 6:30 with the fireworks display lighting up the sky later on.
“This has been such a tradition in the community and this year is our 40th (anniversary),” said Fire Chief Gary Wilton. “We spent an extra $1000 on fireworks for the occasion so it should be a good one.”