The annual Trick-or-Treating event at Aberdeen Mall has been cancelled this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The health and safety of our employees and guests is paramount to us, and, as such, we do not feel we can safely and responsibly hold the event,” said a statement from Marketing Manager Kristi Williams.

“Being an enclosed shopping centre, we would be unable to adhere to the recommended physical distancing guidelines set forth as we welcome over 3,500 people annually.”

Williams says for the last several years people have donated non-perishable food or money to the Kamloops Food Bank when the come trick-or-treating.

“This year in place of those contributions, Aberdeen Mall will be making a $1,000 donation on behalf of our customers.”

She also noted there will be an online Halloween Costume Contest that will be held next month with details to follow.

B.C.’s provincial health officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, says people will still be able to trick-or-treat this year, but she notes it will look a lot different than years past.