Families gather in downtown Van Buren to trick-or-treat on Main Street

 

story and photos by Brittany Ransom
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Young and old sported their best costumes on Saturday (Oct. 29) as they arrived in downtown Van Buren for the annual “Halloween on Main Street.” Sponsored by the Old Town Merchants Association, the event drew hundreds of children and their families out for an early round of trick-or-treating.

Costumes ranged from the cute and cuddly to scary and in some cases, outright bizarre. Many superheroes roamed the streets alongside fairies, ghosts and even a Frosted Mini-Wheat.

Volunteers and area businesses handed out candy to the excited trick-or-treaters. Long lines formed in front of several downtown shops as children and their parents waited for their turn to fill up their treat bags.

In addition to handing out candy, many volunteers set up stations for face painting, photos and other activities. A haunted house was open for those wishing for a good scare.

Buddy “Holly” Kelly performed some of the late singer’s famous hits for visitors as they strolled along Main Street. Trick-or-treaters could also board the train that rode up and down the street taking them from shop to shop.

A costume contest was held inside the historic King Opera House. Children competed in different age divisions for cash prizes. Prizes were awarded for “Most Original,” “Cutest” and “Scariest” costumes.

Michael Splawn won for his bloody zombie outfit in the “Most Original” contest. Ty Kennedy, who dressed as a Smurf, won the “Cutest” contest. The Grim Reaper, Alex Kelly, won for “Scariest” costume. Each child won $5 for winning in their age division and $5 for their general category. Splawn, won an additional $10 for capturing the overall “Best Costume” title.