This family-oriented event features adults decorated vehicle’s trunks while kids trick or treat from car to car.
Trick or treating at Trunk or Treat. It might sound confusing at first to some people, but not to Gloucester Township residents who look forward to it every Halloween.
Their popular event at Veteran’s Park is back for the third year in a row with more ghouls, goblins, candy and cars than last year. It takes place on Friday, Oct. 28 from 7 to 9 p.m.
“Last year, it doubled and we are expecting it to be even bigger this year,” said Gloucester Township Councilman Orlando Mercado, who organizes the event.
There will be hayrides, hot chocolate and a DJ playing Halloween music throughout the night. But what really brings the community to Trunk or Treat are the cars — decorated trunks of cars to be exact.
Because there are many details to this family-oriented event, there are some guidelines by which residents and community members have to abide.
Mercado said residents can be as creative as they want when decorating their trunk as long as it’s not too scary, because kids 13 and under trick or treat from car to car collecting candy throughout the night. In addition, parents are asked not to wear masks that cover their entire face so they can be recognizable by other adults.
He said 45 cars participated last year and gave out candy. Only registered vehicle participants may pass out candy to trick or treaters, but the event is open to anyone 13 and under to trick or treat. Registered vehicles must supply candy, and the township asks you supply enough so everyone receives a treat. Mercado made two trips to the store during the event last year.
“I did two candy runs because I wanted to make sure every kid had some,” Mercado said.
All cars must be in the lot prior to 6:30 p.m. and register prior to the event online at www.glotwp.com. Battery operated lights are suggested as electricity will not be available on site.
Get those creative juices following; prizes are given to the three best decorated trunks.
“We love giving out prizes, but most people are just happy to be there for the kids,” Mercado said.
He said the police and public works do a great job helping them set up for the event as well.
“It’s a very nice event,” Mercado said. “We had good weather the past few years and hope it continues this year.”
In case the weather doesn’t cooperate, the rain date is Sunday, Oct. 30 from 5 to 7 p.m.
