Central Spark, 2023
Burnaby, BC – As Burnaby prepares to host its highly anticipated Halloween Festival for 2024, Tourism Burnaby is proud to announce that this year’s event will not only offer thrilling entertainment but will also make a significant contribution to the local economy. Running from October 3rd to October 31st, the festival is forecasted to generate over $4.1 million in revenue, drawing more than 159,000 attendees from across the region and beyond.’
“The Burnaby Halloween Festival has evolved into a key driver of economic activity and cultural celebration in our city,” said Chris Peters, Executive Director of Tourism Burnaby. “The festival not only attracts visitors from across the region and beyond, but it also energizes our local businesses and brings our community together in a truly unique way. We’re excited about the growing impact of this event and are committed to making Burnaby the top Halloween destination in Canada.”
Tourism Burnaby’s development of the festival is set to bring wide-ranging economic benefits. Ticket sales are projected to contribute $2.17 million, with ancillary spending on food, beverages, and merchandise expected to add an additional $1.95 million. This influx of revenue will benefit local businesses, including restaurants, retailers, and hotels, as well as the induced revenue for food producers, transportation providers, and many other industries that support the visitor economy.
Burnaby will also see an increase in visitation from outside the local area, anticipating more than 12,000 attendees will travel to Burnaby from beyond the lower mainland, Canada, the US, and internationally. Local businesses are projected to benefit from $1.47 million in direct and indirect sales, bolstering sectors such as retail, hospitality, and event services.
The festival’s economic impact extends to tax revenues, which are forecasted to exceed $800,000. This includes federal, provincial, and local taxes—revenues that will help support essential public services, infrastructure, and affordable housing in Burnaby and throughout the province.
Beyond its economic benefits, the Burnaby Halloween Festival remains a cornerstone of community pride and engagement. Tourism Burnaby has ensured that the festival offers a variety of free events that the whole community can enjoy.
Dagerpaatch @ Dageraad Brewing 2023
Pumpkins After Dark 2023
The success of the Burnaby Halloween Festival has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of several key partners. PacifiCan, the dedicated federal economic development agency for British Columbians, provided funding that has played a pivotal role in ensuring the festival’s growth and sustainability. This support reflects confidence in Burnaby’s potential as a major destination for cultural tourism.
“PacifiCan is excited to be part of the magic behind the Burnaby Halloween Festival, where spooky fun meets community spirit. From thrilling adventures for all ages to vibrant cultural celebrations, events like this bring community members together, create economic benefits, and make B.C. a great place to live, work and play.” – The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada.
In addition to PacifiCan, the festival owes much of its success to the dedicated event producers and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life. From the creative teams behind each event to local businesses and community groups, their collective efforts have been instrumental in shaping an exciting and inclusive festival experience. Their collaboration highlights the strong community spirit and commitment that make the Burnaby Halloween Festival a standout event.
This year’s free events provide a diverse range of activities for all to enjoy. From the Pie Eating Contest at Metropolis at Metrotown, which promises fun and friendly competition, to the laid-back, festive atmosphere of Dagerpaatch @ Dageraad Brewing, there’s something for everyone. Halloweeks at The Amazing Brentwood, running from October 12th through 31st, also offers family-friendly Halloween activities throughout the month. These events ensure the festival remains accessible and inclusive, fostering a strong sense of community involvement and spirit.
As Burnaby continues its journey toward becoming Canada’s top Halloween destination by 2027, the 2024 festival serves as a key milestone in this vision. With its mix of economic impact and community-building events, this year’s celebration promises to deliver unforgettable experiences for all who attend.
Plan Your Commute Or Stay The Night!
If you’re thinking of staying the night, take advantage of our special hotel deals and packages. Enjoy exclusive discounts and convenient accommodations. As Burnaby sets its sights on becoming Canada’s ultimate Halloween destination, this year’s festival is not to be missed. Whether you’re carving pumpkins, hunting ghosts, or racing through the city in costume, the Burnaby Halloween Festival 2024 offers an enchanting and eerie experience for all. Many events have limited capacity, so be sure to secure your spot before they sell out!