Get ready for a spooky good time as Downtown Evanston gears up for its much-anticipated annual Trick or Treat Stroll on Saturday, October 26. This festive event invites families and young ghouls and goblins to don their favorite costumes and explore the vibrant downtown area from 2 PM to 4 PM, stopping at 37 local businesses for delicious candy and exciting giveaways.

The adventure begins at the iconic Fountain Square Plaza, located at the intersection of Davis Street and Sherman Avenue. Here, participants can grab a map to navigate the participating businesses, take a fall-themed photo, and collect a complimentary tote bag from First Northern Credit Union. Additionally, attendees can enjoy giveaways from Goldfish Swim School Evanston and engage in DIY crown-making activities led by members of Northwestern’s Dolphin Show.

Laura Brown, the Director of Marketing at Downtown Evanston, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “The Trick or Treat Stroll brings so much joy to the downtown neighborhood as families explore downtown in costume visiting local businesses. These types of events are a great reminder to support local businesses who are always willing to give back to the community.”

As families stroll through downtown, they can use their maps to locate participating businesses, which will display a special Trick or Treat sign on their doors. For those looking to capture the spirit of the day, Downtown Evanston is hosting a photo contest on Instagram. Participants can share photos of their trick-or-treaters in front of a business or at Fountain Square, tagging @downtownevanston and using the hashtag #DTEHalloween for a chance to win a $50 Evanston Gift Card.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the participating businesses:

• Accents Plus | 601 Davis St.
• Artem Pop Up Gallery | 1627 Sherman Ave. – The first 50 trick-or-treaters will receive a complimentary Kyuteji sticker.
• Ayla’s Originals | 1511 Sherman Ave. – Don’t miss out on the fabulous Halloween decorations.
• Big City Optical | 811 Church St. – Offering children’s eye exams for just $49 and discounted glasses.
• Bookends & Beginnings | 1620 Orrington Ave.
• cloth + home | 1503 Chicago Ave.
• Crossroads Trading | 1730 Sherman Ave. – Enjoy haunted finds, treat bags for the first 25 purchases, a costume contest from 1:30 to 2 PM, gift card giveaways, and a prize wheel.
• Deep Purpl Acai | 630 Davis St.
• Devil Dawgs Evanston | 921 Church St.
• Dos Bros Fresh Mexican Grill | 1629 Orrington Ave.
• Dozika | 1018 Davis St. – Offering a 10% discount for anyone wearing a costume on October 26 and October 31.
• Edzo’s Burger Shop | 1571 Sherman Ave. – Enjoy a Pumpkin Pie Milkshake throughout the month.
• elephant + vine | 719 Church St.
• Evanston Corner Bistro

While supplies last, participating businesses will be handing out candy and other giveaways, so families are encouraged to get there early. Many businesses will also feature shopping or dining specials to enhance the festive atmosphere.

As the community comes together for this beloved event, it promises to be a delightful afternoon filled with fun, laughter, and the spirit of Halloween. Whether you’re a local or visiting Evanston, the Trick or Treat Stroll is the perfect way to celebrate the season and support local businesses.