During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, it provided a measure of “normalcy” at Halloween time, by bringing together neighboring families.
Today it remains an event for all ages who desire to come together and celebrate the spooky spirit of the season. The St. Irenaeus Catholic Church in Cypress ‘Trunk or Treat’ will be held on Friday, Oct. 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the church parking lot. Trunk or treating begins promptly at 6 p.m. Cost is $8 per child and $2 per adult.
What exactly is ‘Trunk or Treat’?
“’Trunk or Treat’ is decorated car trunks where kids come by and say ‘trick or treat’ and receive candy just like they would at a house,” said Executive Administrator Lisa Sambrano. “Each family comes up with their own theme when it comes to decorating their car, providing the décor and dressing up if they want.”
“This is a community event overall,” she added. “It brings children and families together from the neighborhood and all surrounding schools, many of which take part in our religious education, but everyone is welcome.”
Featured will be a live D.J., photo booth, costume contest (by age group), a Haunted Maze put on for no additional fee by the Boy Scouts, along with food, snacks and desserts on hand for purchase. Over the years the event has become so popular that the church has had to charge a nominal fee to cover its costs.
“We get so many guests now and there are costs involved like the D.J. and for costume contest prizes,” Sambrano explained. “And though the school and the church ask for candy to be donated, and we get a lot, we also have to purchase candy.”
As a collaborative effort between the church and parish school, ‘Trunk or Treat’ began in 2009 with 20 cars, bounce houses, and more than 300 children attending. At its height last year, more than 700 children and 1,000 adults were in attendance with 60 trunks participating. It is a welcomed community event which continues to bring a measure of normalcy in the lives of all who participate.
Additionally, over the years ‘Trunk or Treat’ has been supported by the Boy Scouts of America and Knights of Columbus, who sold food and provided security or other things, respectively. Many volunteers included parents and other parishioners. Eventually, the Home and School Association took over the event, adding entertainment and other things which are a part of today’s event.
If you’d like to be a part of this safe community event by entering your car and popping open its decorated trunk, sign up online at www.signupgenuis.com/go/805094CAFA82CAB9-44905984-trunk#/. Donations of candy (individually wrapped) are being accepted at the Parish Office. For more information, please email at St.I.TrunkorTreat@gmail.com or call 714-315-7612.