MEDIA RELEASE

Date: 5 October 2009

Distribution: For immediate release

From: Light Party Incorporated

Halloween alternative growing in popularity overseas  

Light Party Inc., a Christian organisation that encourages and supports groups to run a positive alternative to trick or treating at Halloween, is becoming more and more popular overseas. There are currently Light Party™ Events registered in the UK, Australia, America and even Cyprus and Portugal.  

Wendy Reid, creator of the original Light Party™ says that the website is a great help to smaller churches who can make use of the resources when they register their events.  

“The Light Party™ brand has built up a great following and is now a credible alternative to trick or treating at Halloween,” says Wendy.  “The numbers of registered events on the website is just the tip of the iceberg.  It’s so great to see familiar names registering each year but there are also many more churches and groups that hold a positive alternative to the traditional Halloween activities and don’t register.” 

Light Party™ has supported and encouraged those who host Light Party™ Events since the website was set up.  

Last year Light Party Inc. helped over 200 churches and groups to run Light Party™ Events in New Zealand as well as a large number from overseas. 

"It’s great to see that the United Kingdom has really caught on the how positive a Light Party™ can be.  In fact, there are as many Light Parties registered in the UK at the moment as there are in NZ!  Community groups and churches all over the world are discovering how great it is to connect in a positive way and celebrate good things. Hosting a Light Party™ on October 31 is all about celebrating life.”  

Wendy is convinced that many parents are not happy about the negative influence and practices of Halloween and are actively looking for a positive alternative.  Many are relieved when their local church or group does provide a safe, fun place for children to bring their friends and family.  

“Traditions and celebrations are important,” she says. “Let's enjoy one that's positive and builds relationships in the community.”  

“One of the most satisfying things for me in helping encourage groups to run their own Light Party™ events has been the fantastic feedback from everyone involved,” Managing Director, Dennis Smith says. “We have amazing feedback from both Light Party™ Hosts and Light Party™ Guests, who are all so grateful that we have encouraged and helped them with their Light Party™ Event.”   

Light Party Inc provides resources, support, networking, branding and marketing for groups that are Light Party™ Members.  

“I’m hoping that those who regularly hold a Light Party™ Event will register each year and help those who are registering for the first time.  That way we’re all part of making the team stronger by sharing ideas and encouragement!” says Wendy.  

Light Party™ Members are responsible for and conduct their own Light Party™ Events and use the Light Party™ name and resources as they wish.   
 

Registration is online at www.lightparty.org.nz.   

Media Contacts:  

New Zealand

Wendy Reid

(09) 627 0375

(021) 976 799

[[mailto wendy@lightparty.org,wendy@lightparty.org]]