What is Halloween

From Frights to Flights: Alice Springs' Halloween Couple Bids Farewell!

After 16 glorious years of spooking the streets, a beloved Alice Springs couple hangs up their Halloween hats! 🎃👻

In the heart of Alice Springs, where the desert meets creativity, Jeanette and Peter Gurrie have turned their home into a Halloween wonderland for the last 16 years. Each October, their yard comes alive with a dazzling display of animatronic ghouls, cobweb-covered structures, and more pumpkins than your average pumpkin patch! Their passion for Halloween has not only delighted locals but also attracted visitors from far and wide, eager to witness the transformation that has become a seasonal staple.

For the Gurries, Halloween is more than just a one-night affair; it's a heartfelt hobby that has allowed them to connect with their community. Children gasped in awe as they wandered through the chilling art pieces, while adults reminisced about how they had shared their own childhood experiences of trick-or-treating with these enchanting scenes. This year, however, the couple has decided to sell their beloved collection and take a step back from their haunting tradition, a bittersweet decision that has left many in the community feeling nostalgic yet grateful.

As they pack away their spooky friends, the Gurries reflect on the joy their displays brought to so many families and the wonderful relationships they've built over the years. For Jeanette and Peter, who have spent years perfecting their craft by adding new elements each season, the farewell is laden with fond memories — from the late nights of setup to the delighted screams of surprise from children discovering the latest additions. Though they say goodbye to their annual tradition, they cherish the belief that Halloween spirit will continue to thrive as the community finds new ways to celebrate.

So, what happens next for this dynamic duo? While they may be hanging up their ghoulish garb, the Gurries are looking forward to new adventures, including travel and exploring other interests. Their story, overflowing with creativity and community spirit, serves as a reminder that even as seasons change, the bonds we create through our passions are what truly bring us together.

Interestingly, these yearly Halloween displays have origins that trace back to ancient Celtic traditions. In those times, it was believed that the dead returned to Earth on October 31, and people would light bonfires to ward off ghosts. And did you know that Halloween is the second largest commercial holiday in Australia, following Christmas? Clearly, the spooky spirit lives on!