Story and photos by TAYLOR THOMPSON Video by DANIEL LITTLE
Tiger Media Network
Main Street came alive Friday afternoon as hundreds of children and families gathered for the annual Trick-or-Treat on The Bricks, where downtown businesses handed out candy and celebrated Halloween together. Costumed kids made their way door-to-door in a safe, family-friendly environment.
Local employees said the event is one of the most anticipated traditions of the year for downtown businesses.
“I’ve been telling my clients all week how fun it is,” said Brickhouse Day Spa employee Madison Studer. “I love handing out candy, seeing the costumes, and hearing kids say ‘trick or treat.’ It’s such a great way to see the community come together.”
Custom Creations employee Kiernan McCarty said that nearly every business participates in the celebration.
“Most of the businesses I know downtown are doing this right now,” McCarty said. “It’s such an awesome way to connect with our local community.”
The Cat in the Hat 
Children excited for the event 
A baby cow ready for trick-or-treating 
A prehistoric pal joins the Halloween fun 
Couture for Men employee hands out candy 
Families crowd the Bricks during the annual Trick-or-Treat event 
Costumes aren’t just for kids 
A scary clown and his spiderman sidekick 
Even a plague doctor can’t resist a sweet treat 
A parent and child shares excitement for Halloween 
A Minecraft themed costume 
Moving through the streets in style 
A house on main street joins in on the festivities 
A Wizard of Oz themed family. 
Smiles all around as this family enjoys Halloween 
A colorful Day of the Dead family adds some flair 
Star Wars themed family costume 
Musical skeletons outside of Northwest Office Suppliers 
A festive sign to celebrate the event 
Hays Police Department Officers hand out candy 
“It’s been super cool to see all the creative costumes here” said Regeena’s Flower’s & Events employee Abby Hugunin
The Furniture Look employee Connor Harris said his favorite part of the afternoon was seeing the creativity in the costumes.
“It’s been a lot of fun watching all the kids walk by,” Harris said. “I’d definitely do this again next year.”
Volunteers also played an important role in keeping the event running smoothly. Emily Zonier, who helped families cross busy intersections, said the atmosphere was filled with positivity and excitement.
“Everybody’s so happy when they hear us tell them ‘Happy Halloween,’” Zonier said. “My favorite part is seeing all the cute costumes, especially the cat ones.”
At Regeena’s Flowers & Events, employee Abby Hugunin said she’s noticed the event growing every year.
“This is my second year doing this, and there were a lot more people out this time,” Hugunin said. “But it’s not a surprise, Hays usually has a pretty good turnout for this event, it’s just such a fun tradition that everyone looks forward to.”