Serenity Gregoire, 8, Shadon Gregoire, 5, and Felicity Eppler, 10
NORTH FORK — The charm was turned up to high for a howling good time in North Fork last night. What better way to spend a frightful dark All Hallows’ Eve than with a gathering of ghouls, goblins and princesses as they haunted the streets for treats in the town’s annual Halloween trunk or treat celebration?
This year Bandit Town joined in on the festivities, as well, and the historic location decked itself out for the crisp autumn night’s celebration that brought joy to every child who dared venture through its gates. The scene was right out of the history books, with a touch of magic thrown in, bringing a surreal element of fantasy to life in the eye of every tiny reveler.
Meanwhile, downtown North Fork hosted the “mountain traditional’ trunk or treat in full swing, with local heroes at the center of the show. PCF Captain Dianne Miller and Engine 11 were in the top spot along with frightfully decorated local vehicles staged for activity, with the goal of making the lives of children a happier one.
Just across the street at the North Fork Christian Center, their annual Trunk or Treat was underway. Pastor Chuck Rich and his wife Kris have hosted this community activity since he took the helm six years ago, and it continues to grow bigger and better every season. With tricks and treats, a bounce house at center stage, free hot dogs, chips and drinks, perhaps the most special aspect of this event was the coat and backpack give away.
Deanna Rocha, with Mark and Michele Downs of faith-based program Celebrate Recovery, and many other volunteer members, helped to oversee that more than 200 coats and 138 backpacks made their way into the hands of costumed attendees, as one more bonus added to bring comfort and delight to the kids.
Special thanks to the Madera County Sheriff’s Citizens on Patrol (COPS) who watched over this beloved town event, offering a safe space for our littlest citizens. We caught up with the team afterwards for their much deserved break.
Altogether, it was a little creepy, with some kooky, a dash of mysterious and a bit of spooky and, until next year, Happy Halloween!
