By Kathy Chouteau
The Hercules Community Swim Center will be the scene of free fun and frights Friday, Oct. 25 from 6 to 8:30 p.m., when the City hosts its Halloween “Trunk or Treat” and “PUMPKATAAZ” events all rolled up into one.
Hercules Park and Recreation will team up with nonprofits, businesses, partners and stakeholders for the Trunk or Treat—which is an alternative to trick-or-treating—and PUMPKATAAZ, the City of Hercules’ take on a “good old-fashioned pumpkin carving and decorating contest.” Kids can don their scariest costumes and get ready for a memorable night.
Those wishing to enter their vehicle trunk into the Trunk or Treat event can participate by submitting a registration form; decorating their vehicle’s trunk with selected theme; going to the Hercules Community Swim Center between 4:30 to 5 p.m. on Oct. 25 with their trunk prepared by 6 p.m.; permitting a trunk inspection (along with photo of contestant/trunk entry before the event); providing pre-packaged candy for approximately 1,200 kids; and staying until the event’s end.
The City shared that Trunk or Treat attendees will be visiting each registered vehicle, such as kids would visit a neighborhood’s doors for trick-or-treating.
The PUMPKATAAZ pumpkin carving contest is also easy to participate in, according to the City, with the first step being submitting a registration form. Contestants can then get to work carving, sculpting and decorating their pumpkins while also giving their design a name. Those entering the contest should also keep in mind that electricity and open flames are not allowed.
Finished pumpkin entries can be brought to the Hercules Community Swim Center in advance of the event. Carved pumpkins can be dropped off on Friday Oct. 25, between Noon and 5 p.m. Other pumpkin submissions can be brought on Thursday, Oct. 14, between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
The top three best decorated trunks and pumpkins selected by event participants will receive prizes, including a custom medal and a gift bag.
Want other ways to get involved? Consider volunteering to work at the event (parental permission slip needed for kids); donating candy for Trunk or Treat; donating pumpkins two weeks prior for PUMPKATAAZ; or becoming an event sponsor, according to the City.
Register to compete in Trunk or Treat or PUMPKATAAZ here. Those with questions, or who want to donate or sponsor the event, can contact Hercules Park and Recreation at (510) 441-4FUN (4386). The Hercules Community Swim Center is located at 2001 Refugio Valley Rd. in Hercules.
