There have been a few notable characters scattered throughout the Main Street Monroe Historic District this summer: Madonna, David Bowie, Bob Marley and Freddie Mercury. All part of our summer “Chairs on the Square” theme. But as we approach Halloween, there’s a good chance these four will return in a different form, along with hundreds of others.

This event marks the 10th year that Main Street has hosted the Halloween parade and Trunk or Treat immediately following it. This year, as in last, both events will be sponsored by Alphorn Ford. 

For those of you who haven’t previously attended, the idea is straightforward: we bring Halloween to downtown. Last year over 30 community groups, families and businesses participated. All different sorts of vehicles are decorated in Halloween’s finest. And they’re concentrated on the inner south and north sides of the square. This provides a streamlined and safe area for families to bring their younger children, including those who may have few neighbors and neighbors farther away. Like every holiday, Halloween can be increasingly chaotic for some parents, especially those with kids of different ages running around. With Trunk or Treat, the risk of busy streets, approaching strangers’ homes, and wandering away from the group is removed. It’s a little bit more controlled. 

And you know what? It’s beyond fun.

The one question I get asked more than anything at Main Street events is whether or not I’m having fun. And, to be quite honest, as an event planner, that question takes on a whole new meaning. As long as the attendees are having a good time, that means I am too, typically. But with Trunk or Treat, the planning and behind the scenes items disappear and I have a blast. 

There’s something about bringing together so many people into one area that the energy is palpable. Kids building sugar rushes is probably part of it. But when the smiling faces are adorned with whiskers, elephant ears and many other things, it’s magic. Then to be able to see parents, aunts and uncles, grandparents, and family friends come together it’s even more fun. And it gives me an excuse to relive the late ‘90s when I had a solid run of dressing up as Spider-Man year after year. 

Creativity also takes on a new meaning. Virtually every Trunk attending turns it into an art form. From the scary to the classic to Disney-focused, participants choose a theme and run with it accordingly — and the results are top notch. Half of the excitement of the night comes from seeing what unique displays have been created for the event. When the trunks are basically in costume, the festive vibes go up to a new level. 

And whenever your legs — big or little — need a break, you can head to any of the downtown merchants for a late dinner, hot drink or something in between. 

Both the Halloween Parade and Trunk or Treat are free to participate in and attend. The parade starts at 4:30 p.m. and Trunk or Treat at 5 p.m.

Interested in having a float or trunk? Call 608-328-4023 or email monroemainstreet@tds.net to register.

—  Jordan Nordby is the executive director for Main Street Monroe. He can be reached at MonroeMainStreet@tds.net.