Businessman proposing reviving the Halloween parade

Posted on October 6, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

Businessman Devin Lothian, known locally as the “ice cream guy”, is proposing a downtown Halloween parade on Friday, October 31, hoping it will revive a family tradition.

“We believe this event would be a fantastic way to bring our community together, support local businesses, and create a memorable, annual tradition for residents of all ages,” he said in an email to Maple Creek Town Council.

Lothian said the proposed parade would take place at 4pm, before trick-or-treating traditionally begins, to ensure it is safe and accessible for families with young children.

“Participants, including individuals, community groups, and local businesses, would be encouraged to decorate floats or march in costumes. The route would be a simple loop through the downtown core, allowing spectators to line the streets and enjoy the festive atmosphere.”

A Halloween parade offers numerous benefits to our town, according to Lothian’s email:

•  Community Engagement: It provides a unique opportunity for neighbors to socialize and celebrate together, strengthening our community bonds;
• Economic Support: The event would draw people downtown, increasing foot traffic and potentially boosting business for local shops and restaurants, and
• Family-Friendly Fun: It offers a safe and organized activity for children and adults to enjoy the holiday in a festive, public setting.

“We are confident that with the Council’s support, we can organize a successful and safe event that will become a highlight of the fall season in Maple Creek,” Lothian said in his September 8 email.

“We have already begun to identify a committee of volunteers to assist with planning and logistics, including safety and traffic management. Thank you for considering this proposal.

“We are eager to work with the Council to make this vision a reality.”

Lothian attended the September 24 Town Council meeting as a one-person delegation to speak about the proposal.

Council backed the concept of a Halloween parade.

Councillor Mike Stork asked Lothian whether he had spoken to other business owners.

Lothian said he planned to go door-to-door canvasing, if Council gave its blessing to the idea.

Councillor Tina Cresswell asked how long the proposed parade would be.

“I haven’t really figured out the whole route,” said Lothian, although he believed only Jasper Street would be used.

He added he hoped to get enough people involved in a Halloween committee to make the parade an annual event.

Councillor Betty Abbott said next year’s Halloween fell on a Saturday, probably a better day for holding a parade than a Friday.

Councillor Holly Gutfreund suggested including seniors at Cypress Lodge and the Long-Term Care in the Halloween celebrations.