I remember briskly walking up to Le Marché on the very rainy evening of October 31st. Wetter than a dog, I pulled open the door, stepped inside, and was transported to Janaki and her family's Dia de los Muertos-inspired marvel. Warm and colourful, it was apparent that the family's recent trip to Mexico for winter buying had left an impression on them. I saw all of their faces as the characters they had transformed themselves into; Janaki as Frida Kahlo, Klee as a very stylish calavera, Melissa as a dead bride, Pascal as an ominous Mexican barkeep, and Lola as a very pretty Day of the Dead doll.

We enjoyed entertaining all the cute kids who visited the shop to trick-or-treat. Children left with candy, while adults were treated to croissants and other baked goods. Shortly, it was time to take Lola trick-or-treating through the neighbourhood. Despite the rain, the experience was lively, full of smiles and laughter from welcoming neighbours.

The highlight of the night for me was the back alley turned into a Wizard of Oz wonderland. Guests were welcomed by a sign reading to follow the Yellow Brick Road. I must applaud the neighbourhood for their amazing creativity. Their work was endearing, charming, magical and completely welcoming. Neither the rain nor the cold mattered. There was an undeniable feeling amongst us all, that one can only really come to appreciate in reflection.

On behalf of all of us, thank you for making our Halloween night what it was.