Center Street's transition from fall to winter

Lewiston’s Center Street hosted Halloween celebration and now prepares for winter holidays

By Kiara Bullard

Special to Niagara Frontier Publications

On Sunday, Oct. 29, Lewiston celebrated the Halloween spirit with “Trick-or-Treat on Center Street.” The event was held from noon to 3 p.m. and saw certain roads closed to host the event. Road closures took place as both a safety precaution and to allow more space for the planned activities. 

The events included performances, a haunted house and trick-or-treating with businesses in Lewiston handing out candy to those in costume. All activities were free of change and for those of all ages.

Addy Bonacio was among the many attendees. 

“I really enjoy these kinds of events; it's nice to have everyone together to celebrate something,” Bonacio stated. 

The event also offered an opportunity for one’s furry friends to get involved. The “Howl”oween dog parade included pups dressed up for the occasion. 

The haunted house took place at the Red Brick Municipal Building. Visitors could walk through and get a little scared along the way. 

“Haunted houses are typically not my favorite, but this one wasn't too bad for me,” Bonacio stated. 

The weather on the day may have been gloomy, but this did not diminish the high spirits which gathered in celebration. Adults and children in costume navigated the damp roads from business to business to trick-or-treat. 

Julie Harrison prepared for all situations before going to the event. She kept an umbrella handy and wore a heavier jacket to brace for the chilly weather.

“I wish the weather was a bit nicer today, but it definitely could be worse. At least it wasn't pouring rain all day or, even worse, snowing – which is always a possibility,” Harrison said. 

Businesses located on Center Street were able to join in the fun of the day by handing out candy. Among those businesses were Just Desserts by Aimee, The Plant Shack and The Village Bake Shoppe. 

Safely was at the forefront of concern for the event, leading Lewiston to shut down streets in the surrounding area. Law enforcement and firefighters were also at the event to ensure safety. 

Center Street will now prepare to host the Christmas Walk weekend. This takes place at the start of next month, from Friday, Dec. 1, to Sunday, Dec. 3.

Harrison and Bonacio both look forward to the eventful winter weekend. 

“I'm excited to see all the lights strung up,” Bonacio stated. 

“I never had the opportunity to experience things like these as a kid, but I think they are really fun and a great opportunity to gather everyone in the same place; so, I look forward to just seeing everyone get together for a happy occasion,” Harrison said.

For more information on events in Lewiston, visit https://historiclewiston.org/events/.

For more information about the Christmas Walk Weekend, visit https://www.upwardniagara.com/.

••••••••

This is a Niagara University student-created piece completed as part of the course CMS 226A. For more information, contact the Niagara Frontier Publications’ managing editor.