Campbell River families can look forward to an afternoon of costumes, candy and free books when downtown trick-or-treating returns on Saturday, October 31.

The free Halloween celebration runs from 3 to 5:30 p.m., with participating businesses throughout the downtown area welcoming costumed children to stop by and collect treats.

Young ghosts, witches, superheroes and other Halloween characters are invited to explore downtown with their families as local businesses join in the seasonal fun.

The Campbell River Library will also be part of the celebration, teaming up with the Altrusa Club to hand out free books to children who visit. The book giveaway is a longstanding community partnership that adds a reading treat to the Halloween tradition.

Organizers say nearly 1,000 children participated last year, and they hope to welcome an even larger crowd this Halloween.

The event brings together the Campbell River Library, Altrusa Club, Downtown Campbell River Business Improvement Association and participating local businesses for a community celebration.

With Halloween activities also planned in Courtenay and Comox, the downtown Campbell River event gives local families another opportunity to dress up and enjoy an afternoon together.

Families attending are encouraged to include both participating downtown businesses and the library in their Halloween rounds.