Each October, Epworth United Methodist Church hosts one of its most anticipated community events, Trunk or Treat. This annual celebration is open to everyone in the community and offers a safe, family-friendly alternative to traditional trick-or-treating. The event takes place rain or shine, with decorated car trunks filling the parking lot and additional displays throughout the Children’s Wing, Deep End, and gym. Every year, volunteers transform these spaces into imaginative and colorful scenes that bring joy to children and families alike.
Members of the church pour their hearts into preparing for the event. Many spend weeks planning themes, gathering decorations, and choosing costumes that match their trunk displays. From storybook adventures and friendly pumpkins to Bible-inspired designs, the creativity is endless. Volunteers greet families with smiles, hand out treats, and make every guest feel welcome. In addition to traditional candy, Epworth proudly includes TEAL Pumpkin options featuring allergy-friendly toys and trinkets. The Teal Pumpkin Project is a nationwide initiative created by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) to make Halloween safer and more inclusive for children with food allergies or other dietary restrictions. The project encourages households, schools, churches, and community organizations to offer non-food treats—such as small toys, stickers, bubbles, or trinkets—in addition to or instead of candy. This intentional choice ensures that all children can safely enjoy the experience, regardless of dietary needs or restrictions.
The celebration extends indoors as well, where families can explore themed rooms filled with games, decorations, and friendly faces. The Children’s Wing, Deep End, and gym are filled with laughter, music, and excitement as children collect treats and share stories about their costumes. This setup allows everyone to participate comfortably, providing warmth and shelter if the weather turns cold or rainy. More than just a fun evening, Trunk or Treat reflects Epworth’s mission of radical hospitality. It is an expression of faith through service, a way of showing love and kindness to neighbors, and a chance to strengthen the bond between the church and community. Volunteers dedicate their time not only to handing out candy but also to building relationships, answering questions about the church, and offering a sense of belonging to new visitors.