Science East, Fredericton’s science centre housed in the former York County Jail, has embraced the Halloween spirit for five years running in hopes of showing how much fun science can be.
The Haunted Tour gives children and their families a chance to play games, go on treasure hunts and test out the many exhibits in a spooky atmosphere that’s low on scares and high on fun.
“We have turned our science centre into basically a Halloween house of science,” explained Program Coordinator Becky Geneau. “We have activities that are hands-on in all of our rooms so it’s not just a haunted tour, there’s lots of things to see and do throughout the whole building.”
The Halloween tour is a favourite of attendees and science centre staff, who say it’s a great way to show the public what kind of exciting exhibits they have year-round.
“We’re playing around with static electricity,” explained Geneau. “We’re also playing around a little bit with the science behind liquid nitrogen.”
Proceeds from the two-day event go toward programs held at the centre and spark early interest in science, such as Little Explorers, a free weekly session for toddlers.
“We want them to see that science is accessible, that it’s easy for them to do,” said educator Jenn Gale.
And that stretches to all kinds of activities for children of all ages.
“We also have some drop-in style activities,” explained Gale. “Every week is themed and it’s all for free so it’s a lot of fun.”