Every October, the streets of Victoria take on new life – or death.

Ghost tours wind past the Parliament Buildings and century-old hotels, as guides share stories of murdered maids, restless politicians and wandering sailors. Groups move along the sidewalks, their lanterns casting flickering light as they lean in for the next eerie tale.

Tour operators and small businesses have long used Halloween to stretch the tourist season. But according to Destination Greater Victoria CEO Paul Nursey, the city may not be as busy as it appears.

“We’ve marketed around Halloween in the past, and it was a massive failure,” said Nursey. “Halloween events are locally focused. There are events in every neighbourhood, but it’s not a travel motivator.”

Research from the organization shows that while Victor

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