With the crisp autumn air setting the festive mood, East Campus was buzzing as costumed residents, families and students gathered for Trunk-or-Treat. Saturday’s event transformed Wilderness Court into a Halloween wonderland, drawing around 230 participants.
Decorated car trunks lined the court, offering candy to trick-or-treaters, while various activity stations aimed to keep attendees entertained. According to Residential Learning Coordinator (RLC) Kat Hurley, the event, which began in 2017, has continued to grow in size and scope each year. “We really wanted to expand what Trunk-or-Treat offers this year,” Hurley shared. “This year we have lifted the age restriction and now include first-time freshmen and sophomores in our community as well. Given this wide range of student demographics, Trunk-or-Treat aims to provide a safe and fun environment for residents and their families to come together and experience the joy and traditions of our childhood.”
This year’s Trunk-or-Treat was more than just trick-or-treating. Attendees enjoyed interactive stations like beaded spider-making, a corn hole challenge and cookie decorating, with a photo booth capturing all the best costumes of the day. Hot cocoa and cider kept everyone warm as they made their way from trunk to trunk, collecting treats and marveling at the creativity on display.
“This year we’ve expanded to include activities as well and have increased the number of vehicles participating,” Hurley said. “Our participants this year include not only Resident Advisors, but also community residents, athletic teams, RAs from other housing areas, other departments on campus, and community partners like the Monterey Public Library. We have about 25 trunks and around 10 activities participating this year.”
Hurley also got into the costume spirit and was part of a four-car Disney Zombies setup. “Every year the creativity just gets better,” Hurley said. “It’s amazing to see how much effort people put into their trunks and costumes.”
This year’s Trunk-or-Treat didn’t just bring out East Campus residents; it drew in families from across the community, including faculty and staff members. What started as an event for student families has grown into something much bigger.
“Trunk-or-Treat really brings the community and the campus together as a family. So many memories and laughs are shared at this event that you forget for a moment that you’re at school and instead feel like you’re home again,” Hurley said. “Picture yourself as a child, running around and playing with your friends at the end of the cul-de-sac while your parents get to catch up and laugh together. Add costumes and candy, and you’ve got yourself an idea of what to expect for Trunk-or-Treat.”
As the sun set and the festivities came to an end, participants lingered, swapping stories and laughter, with children running around in their costumes.