Hundreds of children and adults donned their Halloween costumes Sunday morning for Evanston’s first-ever Trick or Treat Trot at Centennial Park.
“Evanston is a wonderful community with tons of families,” said Jeremy Solomon, a race organizer. “We thought it would be a great opportunity to bring the kids out and have a great event at a beautiful location.”
The event, planned by JetEvent Productions, started at 9 a.m., with races designed for kids under the age of 12. They ranged from a 100-meter dash to a 1-mile run. Most young participants wore their Halloween costumes, including superhero and princess attire.
“The costume theme is cool, and the kids like it, so I think it’s great,” said Rich Werneth, a parent whose children ran in the race.
More than 270 runners finished in the 6K, according to race results. The 6K began at 9:45 a.m., with Scott Klamm, 21, posting the fastest time of 21:59. The quickest female runner, Cerise Fritsch, 30, ran the race in 24:18.
The kids’ races cost $15 per participant, and the price of the 6K varied from $30 to $40, depending on the time of registration. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to benefit Foundation 65, which supports arts and literacy programs in Evanston/Skokie School District 65.
“It’s the first year we’re doing it, and I’m excited,” race organizer Kyle Thele said.
A whole assortment of activities was held across the park, including food trucks as well as vendors from Evanston-area businesses Whole Foods, Dunkin Donuts, Planet Fitness, Workout Wright and Pure Barre. A bounce house catered to younger participants.
“It was all really fun,” said 8-year-old runner Yasmin Simms, who dressed up as a teen werewolf.
The kids were not the only participants who wore costumes. Solomon and the other organizers were easy to spot in their bright Power Rangers costumes.
“We had to dress up somehow,” Solomon said. “The most difficult part is remembering who is behind each mask … and going to the bathroom.”
In addition to the festive atmosphere at the race, Solomon said safety was a priority. An ambulance was on hand, and event organizers worked closely with the police and the city, cordoning off a number of streets for the morning.
“Hopefully it’ll only grow from here,” Solomon said. “This will be the first annual Trick or Treat Trot.”
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