NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (WTNH) — Trick-or-treaters got candy on Halloween night at a family-friendly, safe event in Connecticut.
Hundreds of families gathered at the New Britain Trick-or-Treat Safe Zone in downtown New Britain.
Two streets were closed to traffic, allowing families to walk freely and buy sweets from more than 30 shops. The streets were well lit and police officers were stationed throughout the area.
At the center of all the action, the YWCA School of Dance team dressed up as zombies and performed Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” The dance team ranged in age from 7 years old to 17 years old, and they spent months practicing their dance moves.
“I was so happy when I got permission to be Michael Jackson, because for years I’ve been saying that my senior year had to be Michael Jackson, so here we are!” said the dancer. Alanis Jimenez said.
The city has been hosting this event for 10 years. It has become a popular tradition in the city.
New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart said, “It’s funny that there are people all over town who say, ‘No one’s coming to my house anymore,’ and I’m like, ‘Too bad they’re all downtown!'” he said.
In New Haven, the city’s Youth and Recreation Department also hosted a trunk-or-treat for families at Southern Connecticut State University’s Big Lots.
“It’s a fun, safe place for families and it saves time for parents,” said Gwendolyn Williams, director of the New Haven Youth and Recreation Department.. “Instead of visiting houses, you can visit one location. With 35 people, a table, and a car, you can go home and sleep. ”