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Date: 10/19/2021
AGAWAM – For the first time, a Trick or Treat Trail and Trunk or Treat event will come together on Oct. 28, allowing for kids in Agawam to experience double the fun.
According to Valerie Smart, Community Family Coordinated Engagement (CFCE) coordinator, this used to be a small event for the preschoolers in town. She explained, “CFCE is a grant funded through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care and [is] administered through the Agawam Public Schools.”
Smart claimed that this year, all seven of the schools in town wanted to partake in the spirit of Halloween.
Secretary to Granger School’s PTO Christina Fusick played a major role in fruition of the event. “In September, all PTOs from the schools got on a call to discuss how to create an event for all schools,” said Fusick. “We joined forces.”
Through their combined efforts, Fusick said from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Agawam kids of all ages are invited to wear their costumes and bring a bag, bucket or pillowcase to collect candy. Fusick explained that each school will have about 10 volunteers that decorate their trunks and hand out candy. The volunteers will be accepted on a first-come-first served basis. All in all, she said they’re hoping for nearly 80 cars.
For the families who don’t volunteer their trunks, Fusick said they have asked them for candy donations. Students are able to bring the candy bags into school ahead of time so that it can be handed out the night of the event. This way, Fusick said they’ll have a better understanding of what is or isn’t needed.
During the event, “Each school is going to have their own PTO table and raffles,” said Fusick. In addition, there will be popcorn, hot dogs, donuts, cider and water available.
“It’s going to be so massive,” stated Fusick. “We are so excited about the event. We believe kids deserve to have fun, socialize with peers and celebrate Halloween.” With the redistricting of students last year, Fusick believes this is a great opportunity for all students in the town to get together. She described the event as a “one stop shop.”
Aside from the Trunk or Treat, there will be a Trick or Treat trail. Smart said that the trail will be away from the trunk or treating. Along the trail, there will be a book that kids can read, interactive activities and even surprises at each station.
Additionally, the event will have blow-up inflatables, fire trucks, police cars and much more.
Parking for the Trunk or Treat attendees will be on the School Street side. They will park there and then walk over. The event itself will take place on Corey Street, near the splash pad, referenced Smart. All of the participating cars will be parked prior to the event and will stay put until the event is over. Smart said this allows for additional safety measures and avoidance of pedestrian accidents.
The event is free of charge and does not require any pre-registration.
As the event is outside, no masks are required but may be worn by those who choose to.