By Alison James

alisonjames@fct.wpengine.com

On Halloween night, ghoulies and ghosties take to the streets to spook and scare – and score buckets and bags full of delicious candy. In Russellville, costumed candy-seekers can find what they’re looking for on just one street at Community Trunk or Treat in downtown.

“Trunk or Treating allows parents the opportunity to stop one time instead of numerous times at different houses. With Trunk or Treating being located on Jackson Avenue, it will give kids a place to walk from car to car in a well-lit area,” said Cassie Medley, executive director of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber will host Community Trunk or Treat Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m. Cars and tents will fill each parking space on Jackson from Lawrence Street to Madison Street, and the Chamber is now accepting reservations for those spots. Businesses, churches and civic clubs are encouraged to sign up.

Setup of vehicles and/or tents will begin at 5 p.m. the day of the event – no earlier. Electricity will not be available. There is no fee to participate. Deadline to sign up is Oct. 16.

“For years Russellville First Baptist, First United Methodist and Russellville Parks and Rec have planned events around Halloween. This event will expand on what they have been doing to include other churches, civic clubs, businesses and be in one location,” Medley said.

Medley said all ages are welcome to attend the Trunk or Treat.

“We ask that all coming to the event use caution – there will be those moving at a slower pace,” Medley said. “Please be considerate of younger children who are carried, are in strollers or walking with their parents.”

Entrances will be set up at the intersection of Lawrence Street and Jackson Avenue and Madison Street and Jackson Avenue. Trunk or Treaters will receive a ticket for a free hot dog (donated by churches) along with a bag (donated by the Chamber) for candy.

“This is the perfect way for those participating to be visible to the community and have fun at the same time,” Medley said. “Kids will enjoy the candy and costumes along with seeing the creativity of decorating a trunk. The Chamber is excited to work with the community to provide a safe environment for trick or treaters.”

Medley added, “This event is new to us. We anticipate a great turnout and hope to make this an annual event.”

After Trunk or Treat, the Franklin County Arts and Humanities Council has arranged to show “The Goonies” to round out the evening. Admission will be $5.

Trunk or Treat Rules

1. No pets permitted.

2. Choose appropriate costumes for this family-friendly event.

3. Be considerate of young children moving slowly, parents carrying children and those using strollers.

4. Sign up to reserve a spot to give out candy by Oct. 16.