HOULTON, Maine — Parents who may be looking for a safe alternative to traditional trick-or-treating are in luck as the Houlton Wesleyan Church will once again offer its popular Trunk or Treat event.
The 12th annual Houlton Wesleyan Church Trunk or Treat, which takes place Monday, Oct. 31, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the church on Kelleran Street, will once again provide children’s games inside the church followed by a time spent going from vehicle to vehicle in pursuit of candy.
“This event has always been a safe place to bring your kids for Halloween,” explained Hollie McAfee, one of the coordinators for the event. “This year, with recent local events, we are increasing security, adding some rules, and enforcing existing guidelines, in order to help the kids feel even safer.”
The event has typically not allowed “scary” costumes, but this year they are also enforcing a strict “no clown costume” policy in light of “creepy clown” events making the national news. Children wearing devils, witches, ghosts, zombies or any other costumes that volunteers deem “too scary” will not be allowed to participate.
McAfee said adults are encouraged to dress up, but may not wear masks that cover their faces.
The event is for kids currently in sixth grade or younger. Children above this age will not be allowed to participate in the indoor activities or the trunk-or-treat in the parking lot.
“We always have teens who volunteer to run games and help with trunks, and we would still love to have that participation, but please sign up as a volunteer and wear a staff badge,” McAfee said. “As always, kids must come inside to enjoy the indoor activities and receive a mark on their hand at the appropriate station, and listen to a short program, in order to go through the trunk line.”
