GAINESVILLE, Ga. (Oct. 17, 2022) – The historic square in downtown Gainesville will get a little sweeter – and spookier – come Monday, Oct. 31, with the return of Main Street Gainesville’s FREE Trick or Treat on the Square.
“Downtown Gainesville is a safe, fun atmosphere for the family to enjoy dressing up and experiencing the traditional ‘door-to-door’ trick-or-treating experience, albeit with historic buildings rather than homes,” said Main Street Manager Nicole Parham. “With the holiday falling on a Monday, we hope to see all the kids who’ve dressed up for school events end their day downtown for a fun early evening on the square.”
Open and free to all ages, the event is slated for 3-6 p.m. and will involve local businesses, to include retailers and restaurants on the square.
Costumes required, of course.
“We can’t wait to see all the costumes this year; from the superheroes and princesses to the creative puns and unique styles that blow us away each year!” Parham said.
A 5:30 p.m. costume contest will keep the thrills coming with contests in the following age categories: 0-4 for the wee ones, 5-8 for those little ghouls and 9-12 for those ghastly bats! New this year will be a Best Group/Family Costume category, plus a contest specifically geared toward fur-babies, sponsored by Bad Bella’s Good Dog Bakery.
While you’re there, be sure to check out Squarecrows on the Square to see firsthand the mad genius of local businesses, groups and organizations. All squarecrows, now up for the public to enjoy, are competing for the 2022 Best Squarecrow title. Photos of the displays can be found on the @DowntownGainesvilleGA Facebook page, where the public can vote on their favorite(s). The photo with the most “Likes” come Halloween night, Oct. 31, wins! The grand prize will be a gift certificate to a downtown business of the winner’s choice, so make those votes count!
Take advantage of free parking downtown available at the Gainesville North Parking Deck, 100 Brenau Ave. NW; Main Street Parking Deck, 301 Main St.; and Hall County Parking Facility, 225 Green St. SE – all within walking distance to the square.
Businesses or sponsors interested in participating in Trick or Treat on the Square should email Parham ASAP at [email protected]
Please be mindful of planned parking (1 p.m.) and road (2 p.m.) closures earlier in the day.