Thousands trunk-or-treat at Jackson Generals Ballpark

JACKSON, Tenn. — Thousands of West Tennesseans celebrated Halloween at the ballpark at Jackson, making it one of the largest trunk or treat events ever sponsored by the city of Jackson and Madison county. Nine years ago this trunk or treat event was birthed in the parking lot of a hardware store,and   a few hundred kids took part as a safe alternative for families who didn’t want to go door to door. Saturday afternoon 14,000 people entered the ballpark at Jackson for the 9th annual Jackson Madison County trunk or treat.

“It’s about all of us and how we want to unify together,” event organizer Jeff Wall said. “And it’s what we are about in Jackson Madison County. Am I right?”

Law enforcement and local business filled the parking lot, giving out an estimated $10,000 thousand worth of candy.

“Really good for the kids and the family to get out and enjoy,” parent Debbie Nichols said. “Just a really good alternative for everybody.”

Parents say this event is much safer for their kids.

“I think this is the best for the kids because we had actually had decided that we wouldn’t go door to door,” parent Yolanda Neal said. “So that’s why we actually came out to this event.”

“You know its a lot safer,” Madison Co. Fire Chief said. “We got them in a safe controlled environment here. Where they’re out of traffic which is a win win for everybody.”

With more than 85 sponsors across the city of Jackson and Madison County, trunk or treating continues to be a free event and organizers are thankful for all the support.

“Parents, thank you for loving and caring for your children enough to bring them here for a fun filled Halloween celebration,” City of Jackson Mayor Jerry Gist said.

“The weather brought out the people I’m sure and it’s and excellent event,” Neal said. “I think they should be sure to do it again next year.”

Although the event was scheduled to end at 5 p.m., with such a large crowd, the last group of trick or treaters got started after 6 o’clock. T here was still enough candy for everyone.