It's an idea that originated with pandemic shutdowns five years ago. But while pandemic concerns have faded, love for this event keeps growing.
For Trunk or Treat organizer Derick Lehmann, it’s all about seeing the smiling faces of children and happy families in costumes.
“And the proceeds go to the (Orillia) Youth Centre,” he mentioned.
This year, he was expecting 2,000 trunk-or-treaters, and it appeared to be a close guess. Between 1 and 4 p.m., ODAS Park overflowed with the spirit of Halloween.
Lehmann said a previous event saw 500 children take part, so it has grown extensively over the years.
Roughly 100 vehicles were set up on the field at ODAS Park in Severn. Those who registered their trunks were told to prepare for 400 children coming through to get treats.
“That seemed like a lot,” said Danielle Foster, who set up her trunk for the first time this year.
It wasn’t until she arrived that she realized how much more takes place, with people in the thousands attending.
The daytime event is known to be a fun time for all taking part. Those handing out candy love to see the costumes in the light of day, and the parents enjoy that it’s a safe community setting for their kids.
Last year, Eita Legault volunteered with the Orillia Youth Centre to bring trick-or-treaters to the event. This year, she got to hand out candy with her two best friends.
The event Saturday attracted many more people than in previous years. Lisa Jenkins noticed the space for vehicles to set up was doubled this year from last.
“It’s so nice. Every year, you see different ideas you want to try,” she said about both costumes and decorated trunks.
For sisters Rebecca and Bethany Cleaveley, it was their first year attending Trunk or Treat with their children. It also became a day for family to hang out when they otherwise wouldn’t have seen each other.
“It’s very well organized,” said Rebecca
The event attracted people from various places. Barrie resident Vanessa Robertson brought her van decked out with colourful cartoons.
She though it was an excellent venue for people to reach out to each other.
“The world needs a big group hug,” she said, excited to walk around and meet more of the community.
With more businesses and community service providers being involved this year, Trunk or Treat creates a space of community engagement for adults and children.
“It’s great for parents to see all the businesses out there, too,” said Patrick Stanley.
He and his wife, Tamara, try to bring the family out every year. For Tamara, it’s just as important that ODAS Park is a safe place for their kids to enjoy Halloween.
Although Lehmann does not like to turn people away, the event is ticketed for organizational purposes.
“It’s about organizing and keeping it affordable for the trunkers,” he said. “It can get expensive.”
The field is open for roaming, but attendees wanting treats are given wrist bands. The bands are one of five colours. Each colour is associated with the group of trunks.
“Unfortunately, I’ve had to turn away about a dozen people,” Lehmann said.
However, he carries extra bags of candy at the entrance so nobody walks away with nothing.
Many people who set up decorated trunks want to return annually.
“It’s a blast and we get to share our hobbies and passions,” said Will Spear, who handed out Pokémon cards and had the same theme for his trunk.
Despite the day starting with rain, he had fun and, after two years participating, he plans to return.
