Families flock to downtown Clanton for trick-or-treating (photo gallery)

Published 10:00 pm Friday, October 31, 2014

Families flooded the streets of Clanton Friday night for the Chamber of Commerce's "Trick or Treat Streets" event.

Families flooded the streets of Clanton Friday night for the Chamber of Commerce’s “Trick or Treat Streets” event.

Hundreds of children flooded downtown Clanton Friday night for the Chilton County Chamber of Commerce’s “Trick or Treat Streets” event.

“We have had a wonderful response,” said Brittani Ellison, executive assistant for the Chilton County Chamber of Commerce. “There were people showing up early for the event, and we have already heard from several people about how happy they are we are having this.”

This was the first year for the event, which invited local businesses and the community to come out and create a “family-friendly” environment for trick-or-treating on Halloween.

“Several parents have told me tonight how they have enjoyed the event because it provides a safe environment for them to bring their kids,” said Janice Hull, managing consultant for the Chamber.

Although rain started lightly falling shortly after 5:30 p.m., it didn’t prevent families from showing up and participating in the festivities.

Second Avenue North was closed from Highway 31 to Fifth Street South, and Sixth Street North was closed from Third Avenue North to First Avenue North for the event.

The intersection adjacent to the Chilton County Courthouse and Clanton City Hall was the hub of activity, with local businesses setting up tables along the route with candy to hand out.

Jane Conradi with Alabama Power handed pieces of candy to children of all ages dressed in various costumes including characters from the movie Frozen, clowns, princesses, and superheroes.

“Superheroes are everywhere tonight,” Conradi said. “We have seen so many superheroes. If you are in need of a superhero tonight, they are here in Clanton.”

Several booths also offered different attractions including games and face painting.

“We are definitely planning to have this again next year,” Ellison said. “We have had a great response. It was better than we anticipated.”