Is trunk or treat the new trick or treat?
WICOMICO COUNTY, Md. — Connie Oakley, manager of Oakley Farm Market, said trunk-or-treat events have become more popular because neighborhoods aren’t as close-knit as they used to be.
“I think trunk-or-treat is more popular right now because people don’t really know their neighbors anymore,” Oakley said. “Neighborhoods aren’t as close as they were when we were growing up.”
Oakley also noted that trunk-or-treating is safer for kids. “It’s kind of dangerous walking down the street with your kids in costumes, especially with coverings over their faces and not wearing bright clothing,” she said.
Local police agree, citing the safety of having no traffic and more opportunities for treats.
Maryland State Police Lt. Commander Timothy Corbin said, “They can visit 20 or 30 different displays instead of having to walk through an entire neighborhood.”
At a typical trunk-or-treat, cars are arranged in a circular pattern. Oakley said it’s a great setup to ensure safety and provide spooky fun. Parents can decorate their trunks, sit back, and pass out candy.
“This is an enclosed area away from traffic. So the kids are with their parents, and they can walk along safely without having to worry about cars,” Oakley said.
After trunk-or-treating at Oakley’s, kids can enjoy a playland, maze, and pumpkin patch. The Maryland State Police is hosting its own event this year.
Corbin said the event gives the public a chance to visit police vehicles in a safe environment without the worry of traffic.
“It just gives the public a way to come to us and see the police vehicles in a safe environment,” Corbin said.
Both events are free, and organizers say they enjoy giving back to the community. Oakley’s event runs until 7 p.m., while the Maryland State Police event will take place Wednesday from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
For trunk-or-treat, organizers suggest arriving early, as candy often runs out quickly.
“We judge it based on how many troopers we have and how quickly the candy goes,” Corbin said. “We usually try to stock up as much as we can, but there’s usually not many leftovers.”
