Halloween fell on a Friday during half term this year – perfect for Putney to come alive with spooky fun!
Our ever-popular Trick or Treat Trail saw a record 75 local businesses take part, each handing out around 100 treats, with some giving away more than 300. Altogether, over 10,000 treats were handed out in a single afternoon! (We take no responsibility for any future dental visits but take note, Putney dentists!)
The atmosphere across the town centre was fantastic, with children politely visiting shops, families enjoying the decorations, and staff and visitors alike dressed up in wonderfully creative costumes.
In Church Square, families were drawn to the pumpkin patch, complete with a dancing scarecrow and plenty of photo opportunities. Little ones loved pushing wheelbarrows and choosing pumpkins to carve.
Outside Putney Arts Theatre, face painting and balloon modelling proved hugely popular; even with two face painters, the queue never seemed to reduce, and the balloon modeller’s hands were ever faster as she worked through her own never-ending line of excited kids.
On Putney High Street, a witch on stilts and a glass juggler wowed the crowds. People were left mystified by the juggler’s mesmerizing tricks with the crystal-clear ball.
As the daylight faded, families gathered for two spectacular fire and pyrotechnic shows. Despite a short delay due to the weather, both shows were well worth the wait, especially the second, which looked magical in the dark. A big thank you to St Mary’s Church for staying open late so the performers could use their facilities to prepare.
The fun did not stop there – the evening came alive with costumed revellers filling Putney’s bars and pubs for Halloween parties. The Putney Street Angels reported a very jolly atmosphere, and even the rain couldn’t dampen spirits.
Halloween has truly become a time for our community to come together, with local businesses and residents celebrating side by side. With another fantastic turnout this year, it’s clear that our Trick or Treat Trail is here to stay — same time next year?
