Trunk or Treat sponsored locally by P.E.A.C.E. group

After a successful inaugural year of hosting 'Trunk or Treat', P.E.A.C.E. (Parents Excited About Catholic Education) is again sponsoring the event from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday in the St. Edward's parking lot.

Trunk or Treat was held on Halloween night last year, but organizers felt it might be better to hold it during daylight hours this year.

“We decided to do it on a Saturday morning, as sometimes the evening hours can be long for families with young children,” said Nikki Traen, one of the organizers of the event.

“We also had some people who decorated trunks (last year) comment that it got a little tricky trying to get to the event after work and have enough time to decorate their trunks.”

The public is invited to bring their vehicle and pass out treats, or simply to attend the event with their children for some fun.

Those who participated last year expressed how much fun they had. Many of those passing out treats last year decorated their trunks or the back of their SUV's in some type of a Halloween theme such as farming, hunting, football and more. There is also a prize for the best decorated vehicle.

Each participating vehicle pays an entry fee of $5 and the winner gets the cash prize based on the number of entries. The trick-or-treaters vote on which theme they liked the best.

The trunk set-up time is slated for 10 a.m. Parents are also urged to dress up for the event. “We felt the first year went really well,” said Traen.

“We were surprised that we got as many trunks as we did. The community really pulled through and came out to check out the event and participate.”

Unlike last year, there will not be a meal serves at this year’s event. Minneota organizers felt it is easier for some parents to have trick-or-treating offered in one location.

“We thought it would be nice for people who do not live in town to participate in handing out candy,” said Traen.

“It can be difficult as a parent going from home to home and having your children get in and out of the vehicle constantly; especially with children in car seats.”

“You can also think of it as a safer method for children being in just one parking lot going around trick-or-treating, rather than running around on the streets that may not be well lit and difficult for drivers to see them.”

Those passing out candy must use store-bought, individually-wrapped candy and treats. No homemade treats will be allowed.