Halloween is traditionally a time for kids to roam neighborhoods and gather treats. However, the new trend of trunk-or-treating has brought families and neighbors together in one safe place. Fairy princesses and furry monsters alike look forward to a night around the town on Halloween, but moms and dads worry about the safety of their kids. Children can easily become distracted in the fun and excitement of Halloween while crossing streets. Many homes light up jack-o-lanterns along the paths the children walk, leading to danger of a costume catching on fire. Is there an alternative that your kids will love just as much, if not more? What is trunk-or-treating? Picture this: a huge parking lot with the back ends of vans and trucks decorated in a variety of fun themes; complete with games and treats. Maybe in one section of the lot there is an inflatable bounce house and in another section there is a puppet show. From babies on up to grandpas and grandmas, there is something for everyone. What a fun way to spend the evening as a family! In many communities churches sponsor the fun event and families plan their own theme for their vehicle. Sometimes elementary schools, sororities, and large neighborhoods sponsor one as well. The best part of Trunk-or-Treating is that the parking lot is roped off, freeing kids to skip or stroll from place to place. Let’s bring it to my neighborhood! So you want to hold your own trunk-or-treating event? Consider what you would like to offer; from carnival-like attractions to down-home cooking. Some communities enjoy hotdogs and popcorn; others warm bowls of chili and delicious apple cider. You could bob for apples, offer hayrides, or paint faces. Then of course there are always the main event; the vehicles. Some Great Theme Ideas for Trunks: Noah’s Ark Children can pose behind cut-outs of tigers, elephants, or giraffes. Enjoy some laughs with a game of Pin the Tail On the Zebra. Pirate Ship Aye, Matees! Chart yer course for this ship, which features buried treasure in a sandbox and “fishing” off the side of the boat for candy. Be ready for some swashbuckling fun! Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Do you have a golden ticket? Then you may have the privilege of entering a fantasy land of lollipop trees, ever-lasting gobstoppers, and a chocolate river. Wild West Giddy-up, cowboy! This space will be a hit with the little critters. Toss coins or lasso stuffed animals while square dance music plays in the background. Beach Party Plenty of beach balls, umbrellas, and colorful towels will set the mood for this space. Kids can do the limbo to get a treat. Winnie the Pooh Oh, bother! Wander the hundred acre woods with Tigger, Eeyore, and Roo to find yummy surprises. Treat yourself to some family fun The only frightening part of trunk-or-treat may be grandpa’s 70’s costume, but you’ll make memories to laugh about all year long. Check your local newspaper to see if you have one in your town, and if not, maybe it’s time to start the tradition!