PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The dark skies and steady rain on Sunday did not dampen the Halloween spirit, as numerous families headed to the Aroostook Shrine Club for the organization’s first ever Trunk or Treat.
People from 10 local businesses and organizations decorated their vehicles in Halloween style and passed out candy throughout the early afternoon. Hundreds of families from both near and far came with costumed children in tow, looking to fill their bags with the sweetest treats.
“I like all the candy,” said Haley Flewelling of Houlton, about the best part of Trunk or Treat. The youngster dressed up as a zombie princess and attended Trunk or Treat with siblings Hannah Flewelling, a monkey, Cayden Flewelling, wearing a computer error mask, and friend Ashton Nason, Godzilla.
Siblings Hannah Flewelling (left), Cayden Flewelling and Haley Flewelling of Houlton attend the Aroostook Shrine Club’s Trunk or Treat on Sunday. (Melissa Lizotte | The Star Herald)
Their mother, Starr Flewelling, said that this year marked the first time the family attended a Trunk or Treat.
“It’s a nice community event. I like that it’s happening in the daylight and keeps everyone safe,” she said.
Amber Villarreal of Milford was visiting family in Presque Isle when she decided to bring her sons Oliver, 3, and Nolan, 1, to Trunk or Treat. Villarreal and her grandmother Donna Pelletier smiled as Oliver, dressed as a skeleton pirate, ran excitedly to each vehicle in search of candy.
“It’s good to see everyone dressed up and having fun,” Villarreal said.
Shrine Club member Shawn Lahey said that the Shriners hope to make Trunk or Treat an annual Halloween tradition. With an outdoor location away from busy residential streets, families are able to trick or treat while still feeling safe, he said.
“One thing we’re really proud of [as a club] is giving people something fun and festive to do as a family,” Lahey said. “We hope Trunk or Treat grows over time into something families look forward to. It’s always great to see people having a good time.”
