MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – Two Meridian Halloween events drew big crowds Thursday night. The Meridian Police Department and Meridian Community College both gave out treats to trick or treaters on Oct. 29.
Police host Spooktacular Trunk or Treat
The police department held its yearly Spooktacular Trunk or Treat at police headquarters on 22nd Avenue South. The free event ran from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. It was open to kids 12 and under with a parent or guardian, the department said.
The line of families stretched down the police parking lot and around the corner.
Kids found candy, cotton candy and popcorn. A live DJ kept the music going. There was also a haunted van for kids brave enough to step inside.
Trick or treaters got to meet officers from the Meridian Police Department. They also met firefighters from the Meridian Fire Department. Several trunks were set up with fun and spooky Halloween treats.
Why the event matters to police
Assistant Police Chief Dareall Thompson said events like this help people see police in a new way.
“They give us an opportunity to show a different side of our officers. Engaging with the community is one of the most important things we do, and our officers enjoy giving back,” Thompson said.
He added that people often meet officers during hard times in their lives.
“Events like this give them a chance to spend time with us in a positive, relaxed setting and get to know the officers who serve their community every day,” Thompson said.
He also thanked the community for showing up each year.
“We always have a great turnout. It reflects the community’s support for the Meridian Police Department and gives us an opportunity to return that support to a community we care so much about,” he said.
Candy Cruise fills the MCC track
On the same night, Meridian Community College held its Candy Cruise Around the Track. The free event ran from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the MCC Track. Guests with special needs could come in early at 5 p.m. for a calmer start, the college said.
People lined the track and stopped at each booth for candy and fun. Campus groups got creative with their booths. One had a dance line. Another had a skeleton flying a plane. Another had a skeleton with a team of golf caddies.
The MCC Eagle’s Nest Bookstore hosts the Candy Cruise. Also, the MCC Foundation sponsors it. The event started in 2020 as a drive through during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, about 2,500 people came out.
More Halloween fun this weekend
The fun is not over yet. Citywide trick or treating in Meridian is Saturday, Oct. 31, police said.
Also, the City of Meridian will host its Candy Crawl on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. It will take place on the City Hall lawn, at Dumont Plaza and at downtown businesses that take part.
Before heading out, police want families to stay safe. They shared these tips:
- Keep kids with a responsible adult.
- Wear costumes that are easy to see.
- Stick to well lit neighborhoods.
- Use sidewalks and crosswalks.
- Check candy before kids eat it.
Police also asked drivers to slow down. Drivers should watch closely for children and families all evening.
