JKPL holds truly spooktacular Trunk-or-Treat
Families gathered in full Halloween spirit at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library parking lot for an enchanting Trunk-or-Treat event last Thursday from 3:30pm to 6:30pm. This well-coordinated celebration brought together volunteers, library staff, and AmeriCorps members to create a safe, memorable experience for local children and their families. The event’s structured flow, from one creatively decorated trunk to the next, ensured a festive yet orderly celebration for the hundreds of costumed attendees.
Volunteers, easily identifiable in bright vests, worked efficiently to maintain the flow of visitors, guiding families in neat lines between vehicles, each adorned with unique Halloween decorations. Themes ranged from cobweb-covered skeletons to cheerful pumpkins and friendly ghost cutouts, giving attendees of all ages a chance to immerse themselves in the Halloween spirit. In one standout booth, Marianas Powerhouse used a spooky guillotine prop alongside three haunting costumes, while another trunk featured an “Inside Out” photo backdrop, popular among trick-or-treaters eager to snap memories of the night.
As dusk fell around 5:30pm, Halloween music and soft orange and purple lights added a magical glow to the parking lot, enhancing the ambiance without drowning out the laughter of excited children. The efficient setup allowed families to enjoy each trunk without feeling rushed, ensuring that everyone could fully appreciate the effort put into each display.
For many volunteers, the event was more than just service hours. “It feels nice seeing many families together, and I truly enjoyed interacting with them and building a stronger connection with the community,” said an AmeriCorps volunteer. The preparations, which included dividing candy, assembling decorations, and gathering volunteers, demonstrated the community’s commitment to making the event run smoothly and creating lasting memories for attendees.
By 6:30pm, the event wrapped up with families departing with candy-filled bags and smiles on their faces. Volunteers reflected on their positive experiences, with one mentioning the value of receiving advice, encouragement, and support from fellow community members. The Trunk-or-Treat event was not only a celebration but a testament to community bonds and teamwork, fostering a welcoming environment for all who participated.
Attendees enjoy the Halloween-themed festivities at Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Trunk-or-Treat event last Thursday, posing for photos in front of an “Inside Out” backdrop. Volunteers, easily recognizable in orange vests, help manage the event flow and ensure a safe, family-friendly experience.
-SKYLEE SANTOS
The Saipan Centennial Lions Club booth at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Trunk-or-Treat event last Thursday.
-RACQUEL H. FLOYD
The Saipan Leo Club booth at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Trunk-or-Treat event last Thursday.
-RACQUEL H. FLOYD
People diligently line up at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Trunk-or-Treat event last Thursday.
-RACQUEL H. FLOYD
The long line at the at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Trunk-or-Treat event last Thursday extended to the Joeten Shopping Center in Susupe.
-RACQUEL H. FLOYD
Halloween decorations themes during Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Trunk-or-Treat ranged from cobweb-covered skeletons to cheerful pumpkins and friendly ghost cutouts.
-RACQUEL H. FLOYD
