Ghoulish Gallivanting in Downtown Dallas

Trick-or-treating is a treasured Halloween tradition with two primary aims: candy and community. For generations, kids have enjoyed dressing up and knocking on neighbor’s doors for a smile and a sweet treat. Downtown Dallas has always celebrated Halloween by inviting everyone to put on their scariest costumes and come down to enjoy the spooky season. This year, the Dallas Downtown Association is organizing the event, and they’re planning a lineup of fun activities for all ages, including trick-or-treating at downtown businesses, a costume contest, cornhole and more!

Trick N Treat on Main Street will be held this year on Thursday, October 31st, from 4 to 6 p.m. The event has had different names, sponsors and locations over the years, but the chamber moved it to Courthouse Square on Main Street a few years ago, where it remains to this day. “This is our first time organizing the event, and the chamber has been very helpful in sharing their experience and advice,” says Downtown Manager Helen Connolly.

The vibrant city streets are lined with locally-owned businesses, and many will welcome trick-or-treaters for candy or activities like ghoulish games and crafts. Though the event is centered at the courthouse, other participating businesses to visit along Main Street include Lora Michele Dance Studio, Gather Food Park and New Morning Bakery. Participants can pick up a scavenger hunt card at the information booth that leads to various fun and frightening locations to collect even more candy. Not only that, more prizes are in store for those who complete the hunt!

Courthouse Square is the perfect place to host this haunted happening. “We want to provide a safe way for our youth to participate in Halloween activities in a centralized location,” says Helen. “It’s similar to a giant block party with a focus on fun, not just candy.” Families will get the opportunity to play cornhole, try the pumpkin ring toss and create Halloween-themed crafts. The costume contest, sponsored by Keller Williams Cornerstone Team, will be held at 5 p.m. and includes a pet segment, so put your fur babies in their matching costumes and bring them along!

With lots of spooky adornments and an array of costumes to admire, the Downtown Dallas Association plans to transform Main Street into a Halloween wonderland. Keep an eye out for the life-size scarecrows, creatively dressed and decorated, and strike a pose next to the silliest one for a photo! There will be an opportunity to cast a vote for your favorite.

Trick N Treat on Main Street is a collaboration of many. “We’ve had incredible support so far,” shares Helen. “Keller Williams Cornerstone Team and Willamette Valley Fiber have been essential in making this event successful. Dalton Land & Cattle Co. is sponsoring the scarecrow portion. Lora Michele Dance Studio, Synergize Auto, Gather Food Park, Ray of Sunshine Home Cooking and Bakery and New Morning Bakery are helping with gathering donations and other tasks.”

For their close-knit community, the Dallas Downtown Association is excited to bring everyone together to celebrate Halloween downtown. “We’re grateful to our local businesses, community partners and volunteers who make this event happen and contribute to a vibrant experience for all,” says Helen.

For more information on Trick N Treat on Main Street, visit www.dallasdowntownassociation.org/trickortreat.