The popular Trunk or Treat event is set to take over ODAS Park on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 1 to 4 p.m.
The fifth annual event was initially created so children could trick-or-treat safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, it's a Halloween tradition for many Orillia families.
Organizer Derick Lehmann says the event always receives positive feedback. Last year, there were 100 people giving away candy from their trunk and 2,000 kids collecting candy.
"It's unreal," he said. "We'd be crazy not to do it again."
The event always captures the ambience of Halloween night, Lehmann says. Many of the "trunkers" decorate their cars with ghosts, dinosaurs, and characters from popular movies and television shows.
"There is something cool for the kids at every trunk," he said. "Plus, if they come to Trunk or Treat and then get to go out on Halloween night, they get double the candy."
Lehmann says the event has a nostalgic feel for those who grew up watching Halloween movies in the 80s and 90s.
"In the movies, all of the kids dress up and everyone is having a good time," he said. "It's just like that."
While Trunk or Treat is a home run among youth, it's also a favourite among parents.
"It's in the day light, there are no moving vehicles, and all the vehicles are decorated," Lehmann explained. "It's another fun activity and experience for parents to do with their kids."
Free registration for trunkers who would like to hand out candy is now open.
"Sports teams and businesses can use this as a marketing opportunity,' Lehmann said. "Community groups, friend groups, families, and anyone who loves Halloween can decorate their trunk and hand out candy."
Candy collecting spots will become available on Oct. 1. at 10 a.m. They can be reserved by making a donation to the event.
"We recommend, if possible, a $2 donation per child," Lehmann explained. "That pays all of the expenses and anything extra is donated to the Orillia Youth Centre."
If somebody is unable to donate, Lehmann says they won't be excluded.
"If you can't pay, that's OK," he said. "Bring your kids for free. But if you can afford a few dollars towards the cause, it helps pay the expenses that we have."
Lehmann says its best to reserve candy collecting spots as soon as they become available. You can claim your spot here.
"They do go quickly," he said. "I do recommend registering as quickly as possible."
For those who register and later decide they can't attend, Lehmann asks they contact him so he can re-release the tickets for other children.
Lehmann thanks ODAS Park for donating the venue to the event for the day and Giant Tiger who donates extra candy to top up trunkers.
